Leviticus 18:29

Therefore anyone who commits any of these abominations must be cut off from among his people.

Study Bible

For anyone who commits
The phrase "for anyone who commits" underscores the personal responsibility and accountability of each individual in the community. The Hebrew root word for "commits" is "עָשָׂה" (asah), which means to do, make, or execute. This implies a deliberate action, emphasizing that these are not accidental sins but conscious decisions. In the historical context of ancient Israel, the community was bound by a covenant with God, and each member was expected to uphold the laws given by God through Moses. This phrase serves as a reminder that each person is accountable for their actions before God and the community.

any of these abominations
The term "abominations" is translated from the Hebrew word "תּוֹעֵבָה" (to'evah), which refers to something detestable or loathsome, particularly in a moral or religious sense. In the context of Leviticus 18, these abominations refer to various prohibited sexual practices that were common among the surrounding pagan nations. The use of this term highlights the severity of these actions in the eyes of God. Historically, these prohibitions were intended to set the Israelites apart as a holy people, distinct from the nations around them. The moral and ethical standards established here are seen as timeless principles that reflect God's holiness and desire for His people to live in purity.

must be cut off
The phrase "must be cut off" is derived from the Hebrew word "כָּרַת" (karat), which means to cut, cut off, or destroy. This phrase indicates a severe consequence for those who engage in the prohibited actions. In the ancient Israelite community, being "cut off" could mean excommunication, loss of community privileges, or even death, depending on the severity of the offense. This reflects the seriousness with which God views sin and the importance of maintaining the purity and holiness of the community. From a theological perspective, this serves as a warning of the spiritual consequences of sin, emphasizing the need for repentance and restoration.

from among his people
The phrase "from among his people" highlights the communal aspect of the covenant relationship between God and Israel. The Hebrew word for "people" is "עַם" (am), which refers to a group bound by common identity and purpose. In the context of Leviticus, the people of Israel were called to be a holy nation, set apart for God's purposes. The removal of an individual from the community underscores the impact of sin not only on the individual but also on the collective holiness and witness of the people. This serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of the community and the responsibility of each member to uphold the standards of righteousness and holiness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The prophet and leader of the Israelites who received the laws from God on Mount Sinai, including the laws in Leviticus.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were given the laws to set them apart from other nations and to maintain holiness.

3. Canaan
The land promised to the Israelites, where the practices mentioned in Leviticus 18 were prevalent among the inhabitants.

4. God
The divine lawgiver who establishes moral and ceremonial laws for His people.

5. Mount Sinai
The place where Moses received the laws from God, including the instructions found in Leviticus.

Teaching Points

Holiness and Separation
God calls His people to be holy and separate from the sinful practices of the world. This separation is not just physical but also moral and spiritual.

Consequences of Sin
The severe consequence of being "cut off" underscores the seriousness of sin and the need for repentance and obedience to God's laws.

Community Responsibility
The community of believers has a responsibility to uphold God's standards and address sin within its midst to maintain purity and holiness.

God's Unchanging Standards
While cultural contexts may change, God's standards of holiness remain constant. Believers are called to uphold these standards in their lives.

Repentance and Restoration
While the law prescribes being "cut off" for certain sins, the New Testament offers hope for repentance and restoration through Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of being "cut off" from the community in Leviticus 18:29 relate to church discipline as described in 1 Corinthians 5?

2. In what ways can believers today maintain holiness and separation from the world while still engaging with it to share the Gospel?

3. How do the abominations listed in Leviticus 18 reflect the broader biblical theme of idolatry and turning away from God?

4. What are some practical steps believers can take to uphold God's standards of holiness in their personal lives and communities?

5. How does the message of repentance and restoration in the New Testament provide hope for those who have fallen into the sins described in Leviticus 18?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 20
This chapter reiterates the consequences of engaging in the abominations listed in Leviticus 18, emphasizing the need for holiness.

Romans 1
Paul discusses the consequences of turning away from God and engaging in sinful practices, echoing the themes of separation and judgment found in Leviticus.

1 Corinthians 5
Paul instructs the church to expel immoral members, reflecting the principle of being "cut off" from the community for unrepentant sin.

Deuteronomy 7
God commands the Israelites to avoid the practices of the nations they are displacing, reinforcing the call to holiness and separation.

Ephesians 5
Paul calls believers to live as children of light, avoiding the deeds of darkness, which aligns with the call to holiness in Leviticus.