Leviticus 15:31

You must keep the children of Israel separate from their uncleanness, so that they do not die by defiling My tabernacle, which is among them.

Study Bible

You must keep the children of Israel separate from their uncleanness
This directive emphasizes the importance of ritual purity in the Israelite community. In the context of Leviticus, uncleanness often refers to ceremonial impurity, which could result from various sources such as bodily discharges, skin diseases, or contact with dead bodies. The separation underscores the holiness required to approach God, reflecting His nature as pure and set apart. This concept of separation is echoed in the New Testament, where believers are called to be holy and distinct from the world (1 Peter 1:15-16).

so that they do not die by defiling My tabernacle
The tabernacle was the dwelling place of God's presence among the Israelites, a sacred space where heaven and earth met. Defiling it through uncleanness was a serious offense, as it could lead to death, highlighting the severity of approaching God in an impure state. This reflects the broader biblical theme of God's holiness and the need for atonement, which is ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who provides the means for believers to approach God with confidence (Hebrews 10:19-22).

which is among them
The presence of the tabernacle among the Israelites signifies God's desire to dwell with His people, a theme that runs throughout Scripture. This presence required the community to maintain purity and holiness. In the New Testament, this concept is expanded as believers themselves become the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19), emphasizing the ongoing need for spiritual purity and the transformative presence of God within His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, who were given the Law through Moses.

2. The Tabernacle
The portable dwelling place for the divine presence of God among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness.

3. Moses
The prophet and leader who received the Law from God and communicated it to the Israelites.

4. Uncleanness
A state of ritual impurity that could result from various physical conditions or actions, requiring purification rituals.

5. God's Presence
The divine presence that dwelled in the Tabernacle, symbolizing God's holiness and His covenant relationship with Israel.

Teaching Points

Holiness and Separation
God calls His people to be distinct and separate from sin and impurity, reflecting His holiness.

The Seriousness of Sin
Sin and impurity are not trivial matters; they have serious consequences, including separation from God's presence.

The Role of the Tabernacle
The Tabernacle was a physical representation of God's presence, requiring purity to approach it, much like our bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit today.

The Need for Purification
Just as the Israelites needed purification rituals, we need the cleansing power of Christ to maintain spiritual purity.

Living in Community
The laws of cleanliness were not just personal but communal, emphasizing the impact of individual actions on the community's spiritual health.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of uncleanness in Leviticus 15:31 relate to our understanding of sin today?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of separation from impurity in our daily lives?

3. How does the presence of God in the Tabernacle compare to the presence of the Holy Spirit in believers today?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to maintain spiritual purity in our lives?

5. How can understanding the communal aspect of purity laws in Leviticus help us in building a stronger Christian community?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 11-15
These chapters provide detailed laws on cleanliness and uncleanliness, emphasizing the importance of purity in the community.

Numbers 19
Discusses the purification process for those who become unclean, highlighting the seriousness of maintaining ritual purity.

1 Corinthians 3:16-17
Paul speaks of believers as God's temple, drawing a parallel to the holiness required in the Tabernacle.

Hebrews 9:13-14
Compares the purification rituals of the Old Testament with the cleansing power of Christ's sacrifice.

1 Peter 1:15-16
Calls believers to be holy in all conduct, reflecting the holiness of God.