Leviticus·Chapter 20

How to Apply

This week, take a moment to reflect on where you’re seeking guidance or comfort. Are there any habits or influences in your life that feel like they’re pulling you away from your true self? Maybe it’s time to set some boundaries. Consider picking up a book that inspires you, talking to a mentor, or even journaling about your values and goals. It’s about consciously choosing to invest your time and energy in things that lift you up and keep you aligned with who you want to be.

Chapter Context

Now, let’s zoom out a bit. In this chapter, there’s a lot of talk about how the people are meant to live differently than those around them. They’re being reminded that their choices matter! This verse comes after a series of guidelines about living a life that honors their values and beliefs. It’s like a climactic moment where God emphasizes the importance of staying true to the path laid out for them. The stakes are high, and this warning serves as a bold reminder that straying into the unknown can lead to separation from the community and from God. It's a pivotal moment that highlights the tension between following the right path and wandering into dangerous territory.

Key Biblical Words (Word Study)

• person - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• turns - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• mediums - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• necromancers - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• whoring - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• after - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• set - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• face - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• person - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• cut - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".

Reflection Question

What are some areas in your life where you might be tempted to seek answers outside of your core beliefs? How can you redirect your focus back to what truly matters?

Related Verses

• Deuteronomy 18:10-12 - This passage also warns against practicing divination and spells, reinforcing the idea that these practices are harmful and lead people away from God.
• Isaiah 8:19-20 - Written about 700 years before this verse, it talks about not consulting the dead or mediums, urging people to seek guidance from God instead.
• 1 Chronicles 10:13-14 - This describes how King Saul’s downfall was partly due to consulting a medium, showing the real-life consequences of straying from the path.

Personal Prayer

Lord, thank You for the truth found in Leviticus 20:6. Help me to take the insights from this scripture and apply them to my heart today.Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Main Themes

Divine Holiness, Idolatry, Sexual Morality, Consecration, Judgment and Punishment, Community Responsibility, Covenantal Identity

Key Verses

Leviticus 20:2, Leviticus 20:7, Leviticus 20:10, Leviticus 20:13, Leviticus 20:26

Historical Context

Leviticus is situated in the broader narrative of the Israelites' journey toward the Promised Land, following their exodus from Egypt. Written around 1440-1400 BC, this chapter is part of the legal instructions given at Mount Sinai, aimed at establishing a framework for worship and ethical living among God's chosen people. The laws in Leviticus are intended to set Israel apart from the nations around them, emphasizing their unique covenant relationship with God. This chapter specifically addresses the need for holiness and the dire consequences of turning to pagan practices or engaging in immoral behavior, reflecting the seriousness with which God views sin and the imperative for His people to uphold His standards.