◄ Leviticus 20 ►
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Punishments for Disobedience (Leviticus 26:14–39; Deuteronomy 28:15–68) 1Then the LORD said to Moses, 2“Tell the Israelites, ‘Any Israelite or foreigner living in Israel who gives any of his children to Molech must be put to death. The people of the land are to stone him. 3And I will set My face against that man and cut him off from his people, because by giving his offspring to Molech, he has defiled My sanctuary and profaned My holy name. 4And if the people of the land ever hide their eyes and fail to put to death the man who gives one of his children to Molech, 5then I will set My face against that man and his family and cut off from among their people both him and all who follow him in prostituting themselves with Molech. 6Whoever turns to mediums or spiritists to prostitute himself with them, I will also set My face against that person and cut him off from his people. 7Consecrate yourselves, therefore, and be holy, because I am the LORD your God. 8And you shall keep My statutes and practice them. I am the LORD who sanctifies you. 9If anyone cursesa his father or mother, he must be put to death.b He has cursed his father or mother; his blood shall be upon him. Punishments for Sexual Immorality (Proverbs 5:1–23; 1 Corinthians 5:1–8) 10If a man commits adultery with another man’s wife—with the wife of his neighbor—both the adulterer and the adulteress must surely be put to death. 11If a man lies with his father’s wife, he has uncovered his father’s nakedness. Both must surely be put to death; their blood is upon them. 12If a man lies with his daughter-in-law, both must surely be put to death. They have acted perversely; their blood is upon them. 13If a man lies with a man as with a woman, they have both committed an abomination. They must surely be put to death; their blood is upon them. 14If a man marries both a woman and her mother, it is depraved. Both he and they must be burned in the fire, so that there will be no depravity among you. 15If a man lies carnally with an animal, he must be put to death. And you are also to kill the animal. 16If a woman approaches any animal to mate with it, you must kill both the woman and the animal. They must surely be put to death; their blood is upon them. 17If a man marries his sister, whether the daughter of his father or of his mother, and they have sexual relations,c it is a disgrace. They must be cut off in the sight of their people. He has uncovered the nakedness of his sister; he shall bear his iniquity. 18If a man lies with a menstruating woman and has sexual relations with her,d he has exposed the source of her flow, and she has uncovered the source of her blood. Both of them must be cut off from among their people. 19You must not have sexual relations with the sister of your mother or your father, for it is exposing one’s own kin; both shall bear their iniquity. 20If a man lies with his uncle’s wife, he has uncovered the nakedness of his uncle. They will bear their sin; they shall die childless. 21If a man marries his brother’s wife, it is an act of impurity. He has uncovered the nakedness of his brother; they shall be childless. Distinguish between Clean and Unclean 22You are therefore to keep all My statutes and ordinances, so that the land where I am bringing you to live will not vomit you out. 23You must not follow the statutes of the nations I am driving out before you. Because they did all these things, I abhorred them. 24But I have told you that you will inherit their land, since I will give it to you as an inheritance—a land flowing with milk and honey. I am the LORD your God, who has set you apart from the peoples. 25You are therefore to distinguish between clean and unclean animals and birds. Do not become contaminated by any animal or bird, or by anything that crawls on the ground; I have set these apart as unclean for you. 26You are to be holy to Me because I, the LORD, am holy, and I have set you apart from the nations to be My own. 27A man or a woman who is a medium or spiritist must surely be put to death. They shall be stoned; their blood is upon them.’” Footnotes: 9 a Or dishonors or reviles; similarly again in this verse 9 b Cited in Matthew 15:4 and Mark 7:10 17 c Literally and he sees her nakedness and she sees his nakedness 18 d Literally uncovers her nakedness; similarly in verse 19 Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Leviticus 20 Summary Punishments for Disobedience Verses 1–5 – Child Sacrifice to Molech The LORD commands capital punishment for anyone who hands a child over to Molech. Both the offender and any who look the other way are held guilty so that Israel will not become unclean and fall under divine judgment. Verse 6 – Consulting Mediums and Spiritists Anyone who “turns after mediums and familiar spirits” is cut off. Seeking occult power is treated as outright betrayal of the covenant. Verses 7–8 – Consecrate Yourselves Israel is urged: “Consecrate yourselves therefore and be holy, for I am the LORD your God.” Obedience to God’s statutes is the visible mark of holiness. Verse 9 – Honor Father and Mother “Anyone who curses his father or mother shall surely be put to death.” Family authority is safeguarded as foundational to social order. Verses 10–16 – Sexual Sins and Their Penalties Adultery, incest, homosexuality, and bestiality are specifically outlawed. Each offense carries a stated penalty meant to purge evil from the community. Verses 17–21 – Additional Sexual Taboos Further incestuous relationships are listed with corresponding consequences such as barrenness, exile, or death, emphasizing the seriousness of keeping family boundaries. Verses 22–26 – Keep My Statutes So the Land Will Not Vomit You Out Israel must obey God’s laws, distinguishing clean from unclean, or they will be expelled just as the nations before them were. God sets Israel apart “to be Mine.” Verse 27 – Final Word on Occult Practitioners Mediums and spiritists face death because they lead the people away from God. This chapter narrates God's direct communication to Moses on stringent laws and the corresponding penalties associated with idolatry, spiritism, and sexual immorality. These commandments, aiming to uphold the sanctity and holiness among the Israelites, are imparted as the nation prepares to inhabit a new land. Historical and Cultural Setting Leviticus 20 sits in the middle of the “Holiness Code” (Leviticus 17–26). Israel is on the verge of entering Canaan, a land steeped in fertility cults, Molech worship, and rampant sexual ritual. God’s laws counter those norms, forging a nation distinct in ethics and worship. Deuteronomy 12:31 and Jeremiah 32:35 confirm that child sacrifice was a real, present danger. Molech Worship and Archaeology Topheth in the Valley of Hinnom (Gehenna) has produced urns containing infant bones, consistent with Phoenician-Canaanite child-burning rites. By prescribing death, the LORD protects Israel from absorbing this horrific practice. • 2 Kings 23:10 shows Josiah later destroying Molech shrines. • The severe penalty teaches the sanctity of life—an ongoing biblical theme (Genesis 9:6; Psalm 106:37-38). Sanctity of the Family Verse 9 elevates parental honor, echoing the fifth commandment (Exodus 20:12). Undermining parents threatened covenant stability; thus, cursing them carried the same weight as murder. Jesus reaffirms this principle in Matthew 15:4. Sexual Ethics in Ancient Israel The prohibited acts overlap with Leviticus 18 but add penalties. They guard marriage, lineage, and community cohesion. • Adultery (v10) shatters covenant faithfulness; compare Deuteronomy 22:22 and John 8:3-11. • Homosexual practice (v13) is called “an abomination,” consistent with Romans 1:26-27. • Incest provisions (vv11-12, 17, 19-21) protect generational boundaries and inheritance rights. • Bestiality (v15-16) blurs the created order; Exodus 22:19 cites the same penalty. Mediums, Spiritists, and Exclusive Loyalty Verse 6 and v27 forbid occult consultation because it replaces dependence on God with counterfeit guidance. 1 Samuel 28 shows Saul’s downfall after turning to a medium. Acts 19:19 records new believers burning occult scrolls—evidence that the principle spans both covenants. Capital Punishment: Justice and Deterrence Leviticus 20 mandates execution for nine offenses. The goal is not vengeance but the removal of defilement: “that you may purge the evil from among you” (cf. Deuteronomy 13:5). Romans 13:4 depicts civil authority as God’s servant “to execute wrath on the wrongdoer,” showing continuity of the justice principle. Holiness and Land Theology (vv22-24) Sin defiles the land; holiness safeguards it. When Israel later adopts Canaanite practices, exile comes (2 Chronicles 36:14-21). Peter echoes the separation idea: “You are a chosen people… a holy nation” (1 Peter 2:9). Archaeological Parallels: Law Collections • The Middle Assyrian Laws and Hittite Code mention adultery, incest, and bestiality. Yet Leviticus 20 uniquely ties morality to God’s character: “for I am the LORD.” • No ancient law outside Israel condemns child sacrifice so explicitly—underscoring the Bible’s elevated ethics. Connections to Christ and the New Covenant While civil penalties applied to the theocratic nation, the underlying morals remain. Jesus fulfills the law (Matthew 5:17) and raises the bar: lust equals adultery of the heart (Matthew 5:27-28). Paul urges believers to “flee sexual immorality” (1 Corinthians 6:18) and lists occult sins among “the works of the flesh” (Galatians 5:19-21). Key Cross References • Leviticus 18 (parallel prohibitions) • Deuteronomy 18:9-14 (occult) • Ezekiel 16:20-21 (child sacrifice) • Hebrews 12:14 (holiness required) Practical Implications for Today 1. Value every human life; God hates practices that destroy the innocent. 2. Maintain sexual purity; God’s design blesses families and society. 3. Honor parents and God-given authority structures. 4. Reject occultism; seek guidance in Scripture and prayer. 5. Embrace distinctiveness; holiness is still God’s calling for His people. Connections to Additional Scriptures 1 Peter 1:15-16 But just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do, for it is written: 'Be holy, because I am holy.' Romans 12:1-2 Therefore I urge you, brothers, on account of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, which is your spiritual service of worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Hebrews 12:14 Pursue peace with everyone, as well as holiness, without which no one will see the Lord. Teaching Points Holiness and Separation Leviticus 20:7-8 states, Consecrate yourselves, therefore, and be holy, because I am the LORD your God. And you shall keep My statutes and practice them. I am the LORD who sanctifies you. This highlights the call for God's people to be distinct and set apart from the surrounding nations. Seriousness of Sin The chapter outlines severe penalties for various sins, including idolatry, sexual immorality, and child sacrifice. This reflects God's intolerance for sin and His desire for His people to live righteously. Community Responsibility Verses like Leviticus 20:4-5 emphasize the community's role in upholding God's standards, showing that holiness is not just an individual pursuit but a collective responsibility. God's Justice and Mercy While the chapter details punishments, it also reflects God's justice and His desire for His people to turn away from sin and towards Him. Practical Applications Pursue Holiness Reflect on areas of your life where you need to be more set apart for God. Consider practical steps to align your actions with His statutes. Community Accountability Engage with your faith community to encourage one another in living holy lives. Be open to both giving and receiving accountability. Understand the Weight of Sin Recognize the seriousness of sin in your life and the need for repentance. Seek God's forgiveness and strive to live in obedience to His Word. Reflect God's Character In your daily interactions, aim to reflect God's holiness and love, serving as a light to those around you. People 1. Anyone who gives their offspring to Molech This refers to individuals who sacrifice their children to the pagan god Molech. The text emphasizes the severity of this sin and prescribes the death penalty for such actions (Leviticus 20:2). 2. The people of the land These are the community members who are warned not to turn a blind eye to the sin of child sacrifice. They are instructed to take action against those who commit this sin (Leviticus 20:4). 3. Anyone who turns to mediums or spiritists This person is described as one who seeks guidance from those who claim to communicate with the dead or spirits, which is considered idolatry and is punishable by being cut off from the community (Leviticus 20:6). 4. A man who commits adultery with another man's wife This refers to a man who engages in sexual relations with a married woman, which is considered a grave sin, punishable by death for both parties involved (Leviticus 20:10). 5. A man who lies with his father's wife This person is described as having sexual relations with his stepmother, which is seen as uncovering his father's nakedness, and both are to be put to death (Leviticus 20:11). 6. A man who lies with his daughter-in-law This refers to a man who engages in sexual relations with his daughter-in-law, which is considered a perversion, and both are to be put to death (Leviticus 20:12). 7. A man who lies with a male as with a woman This person is described as engaging in homosexual acts, which is considered an abomination, and both parties are to be put to death (Leviticus 20:13). 8. A man who marries both a woman and her mother This refers to a man who takes both a woman and her mother as wives, which is considered depravity, and all three are to be burned with fire (Leviticus 20:14). 9. A man who lies with an animal This person is described as engaging in bestiality, which is punishable by death for both the man and the animal (Leviticus 20:15). 10. A woman who approaches any animal to mate with it This refers to a woman who engages in bestiality, which is punishable by death for both the woman and the animal (Leviticus 20:16). 11. A man who takes his sister This person is described as having sexual relations with his sister, which is considered a disgrace, and they are to be cut off from the people (Leviticus 20:17). 12. A man who lies with a woman during her menstrual period This refers to a man who has sexual relations with a woman during her menstrual impurity, which is considered a serious offense, and both are to be cut off from the people (Leviticus 20:18). 13. A man who lies with his aunt This person is described as having sexual relations with his aunt, which is considered uncovering a relative's nakedness, and they will bear their sin (Leviticus 20:19). 14. A man who lies with his brother's wife This refers to a man who engages in sexual relations with his brother's wife, which is considered impurity, and they will be childless (Leviticus 20:21). Places 1. Israel This is the primary setting for the laws and instructions given in Leviticus 20. The chapter addresses the Israelites, God's chosen people, and outlines the moral and ceremonial laws they are to follow. The Hebrew term for Israel is "יִשְׂרָאֵל" (Yisra'el), which refers to both the people and the land promised to them by God. The laws are intended to set the Israelites apart from other nations and to maintain their holiness as a community dedicated to God. While Leviticus 20 does not mention other specific geographical locations, it is important to understand that the context is within the broader narrative of the Israelites' journey and settlement in the Promised Land. Events 1. Prohibition of Child Sacrifice to Molech God commands the Israelites not to sacrifice their children to Molech, stating, "Any Israelite or any foreigner residing in Israel who gives any of his children to Molech must be put to death" (Leviticus 20:2). The Hebrew term "מֹלֶךְ" (Molech) refers to a Canaanite deity associated with child sacrifice. 2. Consequences for Ignoring Molech Worship The Lord warns that if the community ignores someone who sacrifices to Molech, He will set His face against that person and their family (Leviticus 20:4-5). The phrase "set My face against" (Hebrew: "פָּנַי בְּ") indicates divine opposition and judgment. 3. Prohibition of Turning to Mediums and Spiritists God instructs the Israelites not to turn to mediums or spiritists, warning, "I will set My face against that person and cut him off from his people" (Leviticus 20:6). The Hebrew word "אוֹב" (medium) and "יִדְּעֹנִי" (spiritist) refer to those who claim to communicate with the dead or spirits. 4. Call to Holiness The Lord calls His people to be holy, saying, "Consecrate yourselves, therefore, and be holy, because I am the LORD your God" (Leviticus 20:7). The Hebrew root "קָדַשׁ" (qadash) means to be set apart or sanctified. 5. Punishment for Cursing Parents The text prescribes death for anyone who curses their father or mother: "If anyone curses his father or mother, he must be put to death" (Leviticus 20:9). The Hebrew verb "קָלַל" (qalal) means to curse or revile. 6. Prohibition of Adultery Adultery is condemned, with the punishment being death for both parties involved: "If a man commits adultery with another man's wife... both the adulterer and the adulteress must surely be put to death" (Leviticus 20:10). 7. Prohibition of Various Sexual Sins The chapter lists various sexual sins, including incest, homosexuality, and bestiality, each carrying the death penalty or being "cut off" from the people (Leviticus 20:11-16). The Hebrew term "כָּרַת" (karat) means to cut off or excommunicate. 8. Prohibition of Marrying a Woman and Her Mother Marrying both a woman and her mother is described as depravity, and all involved must be burned with fire (Leviticus 20:14). 9. Prohibition of Sexual Relations During Menstruation Engaging in sexual relations with a woman during her menstrual period is forbidden, and both parties are to be cut off from their people (Leviticus 20:18). 10. Prohibition of Dishonest Practices The chapter concludes with a call to avoid dishonest practices and to keep God's statutes and judgments, emphasizing the need for holiness (Leviticus 20:22-26). Lessons from Leviticus 20 1. The Call to Holiness Leviticus 20 reminds us of the importance of living a life set apart for God. The chapter begins with a call to holiness, emphasizing that we are to be distinct from the world around us. As it is written, "You are to be holy to Me because I, the LORD, am holy, and I have set you apart from the nations to be My own" (Leviticus 20:26). This is a powerful reminder that our lives should reflect the character of God, striving for purity and righteousness in all we do. 2. The Seriousness of Sin This chapter underscores the gravity of sin and its consequences. It lists various offenses and the severe penalties associated with them, highlighting that sin is not to be taken lightly. "If a man commits adultery with another man's wife... both the adulterer and the adulteress must surely be put to death" (Leviticus 20:10). While the penalties may seem harsh, they serve as a stark reminder of the destructive nature of sin and the need for repentance. 3. The Sanctity of Life Leviticus 20 emphasizes the value of life, particularly in its prohibition against child sacrifice to Molech. "Any Israelite or any foreigner residing in Israel who sacrifices any of his children to Molech must be put to death" (Leviticus 20:2). This command underscores the sanctity of life and the importance of protecting the innocent, reminding us that every life is precious in the eyes of God. 4. The Importance of Obedience Obedience to God's commands is a recurring theme in Leviticus 20. The chapter outlines the blessings of following God's laws and the consequences of disobedience. "Keep all My statutes and all My ordinances and follow them. I am the LORD" (Leviticus 20:22). This serves as a reminder that obedience is not just about following rules but about aligning our lives with God's will. 5. The Role of Community Accountability The chapter highlights the role of the community in maintaining holiness. It calls for the community to hold each other accountable, especially in matters of sin. "If the people of the land ever hide their eyes from that man when he sacrifices one of his children to Molech... I will set My face against that man and his family" (Leviticus 20:4-5). This teaches us the importance of supporting one another in our spiritual journeys. 6. The Dangers of Idolatry Idolatry is a significant concern in Leviticus 20, with stern warnings against turning to other gods. "I will set My face against that man and cut him off from his people" (Leviticus 20:5). This serves as a caution against allowing anything to take the place of God in our lives, reminding us to keep our focus on Him alone. 7. The Call to Sexual Purity The chapter addresses various sexual sins, emphasizing the need for purity in our relationships. "If a man lies with a male as with a woman, both of them have committed an abomination" (Leviticus 20:13). This highlights the importance of honoring God's design for sexuality and maintaining purity in our thoughts and actions. 8. The Consequences of Disobedience Leviticus 20 outlines the consequences of disobedience, serving as a warning to those who stray from God's commands. "I will set My face against that person and cut him off from his people" (Leviticus 20:6). This reminds us that our choices have consequences and that we must strive to live in accordance with God's will. 9. The Promise of Blessing Amidst the warnings, there is also a promise of blessing for those who follow God's commands. "You are to be holy to Me because I, the LORD, am holy" (Leviticus 20:26). This assurance encourages us to pursue holiness, knowing that God rewards those who seek to honor Him. 10. The Assurance of God's Presence Finally, Leviticus 20 assures us of God's presence with His people. "I am the LORD your God, who has set you apart from the nations" (Leviticus 20:24). This is a comforting reminder that God is with us, guiding and supporting us as we strive to live lives that reflect His holiness. Topics 1. Punishment for Child Sacrifice to Molech (Leviticus 20:1-5) This section addresses the severe consequences for anyone in Israel who sacrifices their children to Molech, a pagan deity. The Hebrew term "מֹלֶךְ" (Molech) refers to a Canaanite god associated with child sacrifice. The text emphasizes that such acts defile God's sanctuary and profane His holy name. 2. Prohibition of Consulting Mediums and Spiritists (Leviticus 20:6-8) God warns against turning to mediums and spiritists, which is considered spiritual prostitution. The Hebrew word "אוֹב" (ov) refers to a medium or necromancer. The passage underscores the importance of consecration and obedience to God's statutes. 3. Penalties for Sexual Immorality (Leviticus 20:9-21) This section outlines various sexual sins and their corresponding penalties, including incest, adultery, and homosexuality. The Hebrew term "תּוֹעֵבָה" (to'evah) is used to describe abominations, particularly in the context of prohibited sexual relations. 4. Call to Holiness and Separation from Pagan Practices (Leviticus 20:22-26) God calls the Israelites to keep His statutes and live holy lives, distinct from the nations around them. The Hebrew root "קָדַשׁ" (qadash) means to be holy or set apart. This section emphasizes the importance of maintaining purity and avoiding defilement. 5. Punishment for Mediums and Spiritists (Leviticus 20:27) The chapter concludes with a reiteration of the death penalty for mediums and spiritists, reinforcing the prohibition against engaging in occult practices. The emphasis is on purging evil from the community to maintain holiness. Themes 1. Prohibition of Child Sacrifice to Molech Leviticus 20:2-5 warns against giving offspring to Molech, a practice associated with idolatry and child sacrifice. The Hebrew term "מֹלֶךְ" (Molech) refers to a Canaanite deity, and the text emphasizes the severe consequences for such actions, including being cut off from the community. 2. Condemnation of Occult Practices Verses 6-7 address turning to mediums and spiritists, which is seen as spiritual unfaithfulness. The Hebrew word "אוֹב" (ob) refers to mediums, and "יִדְּעֹנִי" (yiddeoni) to spiritists, both of which are condemned as they lead people away from God. 3. Call to Holiness In verse 7, the call to "consecrate yourselves and be holy" is reiterated. The Hebrew root "קָדַשׁ" (qadash) means to be set apart or sanctified, emphasizing the need for the Israelites to live distinctively as God's people. 4. Respect for Parents Verse 9 underscores the importance of honoring one's parents, with severe penalties for cursing them. The Hebrew word "קָלַל" (qalal) means to curse or treat lightly, highlighting the gravity of disrespecting parental authority. 5. Sexual Morality Verses 10-21 outline various prohibitions against sexual immorality, including adultery, incest, and other unlawful relations. The Hebrew term "תּוֹעֵבָה" (to'evah) often translated as "abomination," is used to describe these acts, indicating their offensiveness to God. 6. Distinction from Pagan Practices Verse 23 warns against adopting the customs of the nations that God is driving out before the Israelites. The Hebrew root "חָקַק" (chaqaq) refers to statutes or decrees, emphasizing the need for Israel to maintain distinct practices. 7. Promise of the Land In verse 24, God promises to give the Israelites a land flowing with milk and honey, contingent upon their obedience. The Hebrew word "נָתַן" (natan) means to give, signifying God's gracious provision and the conditional nature of this promise. 8. Holiness and Separation Verses 25-26 reiterate the call to distinguish between clean and unclean animals and to be holy. The Hebrew root "בָּדַל" (badal) means to separate or divide, underscoring the theme of holiness through separation from impurity. 9. Consequences for Disobedience The chapter concludes with a reminder of the consequences for disobedience, including being cut off from the people. The Hebrew term "כָּרַת" (karat) means to cut off, indicating both physical and spiritual separation from the community. Prayer Points Pray for a Heart of Holiness Ask God to cultivate a desire for holiness in your heart and to help you live a life that honors Him. Seek Forgiveness and Repentance Confess any known sins and seek God's forgiveness, asking for strength to turn away from sinful behaviors. Pray for Community Strength Lift up your faith community, asking God to strengthen your collective commitment to holiness and accountability. Intercede for the Lost Pray for those who do not yet know Christ, that they may come to understand the seriousness of sin and the beauty of God's grace. Answering Tough Questions 1. In Leviticus 20:2–5, why would an omniscient God require death for sacrificing children to Molek, yet historically many other cultures that practiced similar rites seemingly flourished? 2. In Leviticus 20:9, why does the penalty of death for cursing a parent align with an ancient cultural norm rather than reflecting a consistent moral principle that applies universally? 3. In Leviticus 20:10, how can this text mandate capital punishment for adultery when other passages in the Bible offer alternative outcomes for similar offenses (e.g., John 8:1–11)? 4. Why does Leviticus 20:13 prescribe death for homosexuality when modern views see sexual orientation as inherent, raising justice and compassion concerns? 5. In Leviticus 20:27, how does the death sentence for mediums and spiritists reconcile with the Bible’s own instances of sanctioned supernatural encounters (e.g., 1 Samuel 28)? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What does God's instruction to Moses convey about His character and His expectation from His people? 2. How does the concept of holiness apply to us today? 3. How can we apply the principles behind these laws in our present-day context? 4. In what ways do these verses challenge our views on idolatry and spiritism? 5. How can we ensure that we respect and uphold the family structure as instructed in the passage? 6. How does God's condemnation of child sacrifice reflect His love and care for children? 7. What is the significance of the penalties associated with these laws? 8. What can we learn about cultural adaptation from God's warning against following the practices of other nations? 9. How does the concept of distinguishing between clean and unclean animals apply to modern dietary laws? 10. Why do you think God puts so much emphasis on sexual relations and morality? 11. How can we discern and react to practices in today's society that are akin to prostituting oneself with mediums or spiritists? 12. How can we apply the principle of consecration in our daily lives? 13. What strategies can we employ to avoid following the perverse practices of the surrounding culture? 14. How does this passage inform our understanding of God's holiness? 15. Discuss how the principles outlined in this passage can guide our decisions and relationships. 16. How can the Christian community today stand against practices that parallel the idolatry and spiritism condemned in this passage? 17. Discuss how understanding these laws can impact our view of sin and God's righteousness. 18. How do these laws about sexual relations inform our understanding of God's design for sexual intimacy and marriage? 19. How does God's demand for holiness challenge the way you live your life? 20. Given the harsh punishments for breaking these laws, how does this passage inform our understanding of grace and mercy in the New Testament? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions