“Ye shall therefore keep my statutes, and my judgments: which if a man do, he shall live in them: I am the LORD.”
This verse is part of the larger context of Leviticus 18, which contains laws and regulations regarding sexual immorality and various forbidden relationships. In this particular verse, God commands the Israelites to keep His statutes and judgments. Let’s explore the key elements of this verse and its broader implications.
Obedience to God’s statutes and judgments:The verse begins with the command to “keep my statutes, and my judgments.” God had given the Israelites specific laws and regulations to govern their conduct, including laws related to morality, worship, and social interactions. The Israelites were expected to obey these laws as an expression of their faith and commitment to God.
Blessings through obedience:The verse states that if a person obeys God’s statutes and judgments, they shall live in them. This implies that there are blessings and benefits associated with following God’s commands. Obedience to God’s law brings about a sense of righteousness, well-being, and harmony in one’s life.
The character of God:The verse concludes with the statement, “I am the LORD.” This serves as a reminder that the commandments given by God are not arbitrary rules but are rooted in His divine wisdom and holiness. By obeying His statutes and judgments, the Israelites demonstrated their acknowledgment of God’s authority and their commitment to live according to His standards.
It is important to note that Leviticus contains many ceremonial and moral laws that were specifically given to the ancient Israelites under the Mosaic covenant. While these laws were significant for the Israelites in their historical and cultural context, the coming of Jesus Christ and the establishment of the new covenant brought about changes in how Christians relate to the Mosaic law (Matthew 5:17, Romans 10:4, Galatians 3:24-25).
As Christians, we understand that salvation is through faith in Jesus Christ, and we are no longer under the law for our justification (Romans 3:28, Galatians 2:16). However, the principles found in the Old Testament, including the moral principles conveyed in Leviticus, still provide us with valuable insights into God’s character and His desire for holiness.
In summary, Leviticus 18:5 emphasizes the importance of obedience to God’s statutes and judgments. It highlights the blessings that come through obedience and reminds us of the character of God:While the specific laws in Leviticus are not binding on Christians today, they serve as a reminder of the righteous standards that God desires us to uphold and can guide us in living a life that honours Him.
