Leviticus 20:22

You 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.

Study Bible

You are to keep
The phrase "You are to keep" emphasizes the active responsibility of the Israelites to adhere to God's commandments. The Hebrew root word for "keep" is "שָׁמַר" (shamar), which means to guard, observe, or give heed. This implies a vigilant and intentional effort to maintain the statutes and ordinances given by God. In a historical context, this was crucial for the Israelites as they were called to be a distinct people, set apart from the surrounding nations. The call to "keep" underscores the covenant relationship between God and His people, where obedience is a sign of faithfulness and devotion.

all My statutes
The term "all My statutes" refers to the comprehensive nature of God's laws. The Hebrew word for "statutes" is "חֻקִּים" (chuqqim), which denotes decrees or prescribed tasks. These statutes were not arbitrary but were given by God to guide the moral, ceremonial, and civil life of Israel. Historically, these laws were meant to shape the identity of the Israelites as a holy nation. The use of "all" indicates that partial obedience is insufficient; the Israelites were to embrace the entirety of God's instructions.

and all My ordinances
"Ordinances" in Hebrew is "מִשְׁפָּטִים" (mishpatim), which refers to judgments or legal decisions. These are the specific applications of God's law in various situations, ensuring justice and righteousness within the community. The inclusion of both "statutes" and "ordinances" highlights the comprehensive nature of God's law, covering both general principles and specific cases. This reflects God's desire for His people to live in a way that reflects His character and justice.

and follow them
The phrase "and follow them" calls for active obedience and application of God's laws. The Hebrew root "עָשָׂה" (asah) means to do, make, or accomplish. This implies that the statutes and ordinances are not merely to be acknowledged but are to be actively lived out. The historical context shows that the Israelites' success and prosperity in the Promised Land were contingent upon their obedience to God's commands. This serves as a reminder that faith is demonstrated through action.

so that the land
"So that the land" introduces the purpose and consequence of obedience. The land, in this context, is the Promised Land, a gift from God to the Israelites. The Hebrew word for "land" is "אֶרֶץ" (eretz), which can mean earth, land, or territory. The land was not just a physical space but a place where God's people could live out their covenant relationship with Him. The condition of the land was directly tied to the faithfulness of the people.

to which I am bringing you
This phrase underscores God's active role in the Israelites' journey. The Hebrew verb "בּוֹא" (bo) means to come or bring, indicating God's initiative and guidance. Historically, this reflects the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob to give their descendants a land of their own. It is a reminder of God's faithfulness and the fulfillment of His promises.

to dwell
The word "to dwell" comes from the Hebrew "יָשַׁב" (yashab), meaning to sit, remain, or inhabit. This implies a sense of permanence and stability. The Israelites were not just passing through; they were to establish themselves in the land as God's people. This dwelling was contingent upon their obedience, reflecting the conditional nature of the covenant.

will not vomit you out
The vivid imagery of the land "will not vomit you out" serves as a stark warning. The Hebrew word "קִיא" (qi) means to vomit or spew out, indicating rejection or expulsion. This metaphor suggests that the land itself responds to the moral and spiritual state of its inhabitants. Historically, this was a warning that disobedience would lead to exile, as the land would not tolerate sin. It underscores the seriousness of maintaining holiness and the consequences of failing to do so.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelites
The primary audience of Leviticus, the Israelites were God's chosen people, set apart to live according to His laws as they journeyed to the Promised Land.

2. Moses
The leader of the Israelites and the mediator of God's laws, Moses conveyed God's commandments to the people.

3. The Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which God promised to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. It was a land flowing with milk and honey, symbolizing God's provision and blessing.

4. God
The sovereign Lord who established the statutes and ordinances for His people, emphasizing holiness and obedience.

5. The Law
The collection of statutes and ordinances given by God to the Israelites, which included moral, ceremonial, and civil laws.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Commands
The importance of adhering to God's statutes and ordinances is emphasized as a means of maintaining a right relationship with Him and ensuring His blessings.

Holiness and Separation
God's call for His people to be holy and distinct from surrounding nations is a timeless principle, urging believers today to live set apart for God's purposes.

Consequences of Disobedience
The warning that the land would "vomit" out the disobedient serves as a stark reminder of the serious consequences of turning away from God's commands.

Covenant Relationship
The statutes and ordinances are part of a covenant relationship, where obedience is a response to God's faithfulness and love.

Living in the Promised Land
The promise of dwelling in the land is contingent upon obedience, symbolizing the spiritual rest and blessings found in Christ for believers today.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of holiness in Leviticus 20:22 apply to Christians today, and what are some practical ways we can live out this call to holiness?

2. In what ways do the blessings and curses outlined in Deuteronomy 28 relate to the warning given in Leviticus 20:22?

3. How can we, as modern believers, ensure that we are not "vomited out" of the spiritual blessings God has promised us?

4. What parallels can be drawn between the Israelites' journey to the Promised Land and our spiritual journey as Christians?

5. How does understanding the covenant relationship between God and Israel enhance our understanding of our relationship with God through Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 28
This chapter outlines the blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, reinforcing the consequences mentioned in Leviticus 20:22.

Exodus 19:5-6
These verses highlight the covenant relationship between God and Israel, where obedience to God's laws would make them a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.

Romans 12:1-2
Paul urges believers to present their bodies as living sacrifices and to be transformed by the renewing of their minds, echoing the call to holiness found in Leviticus.

1 Peter 1:15-16
Peter calls Christians to be holy in all their conduct, as God is holy, directly linking to the holiness theme in Leviticus.