Leviticus 20:5

then 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.

Study Bible

then I will set My face
The phrase "set My face" is a powerful expression of divine determination and judgment. In Hebrew, the word for "face" is "פָּנִים" (panim), which often signifies presence or attention. When God sets His face against someone, it indicates a deliberate and focused opposition. This is not a passive disapproval but an active stance against sin. Historically, this reflects the seriousness with which God views idolatry and the betrayal of His covenant.

against that man and his family
The inclusion of "his family" underscores the communal nature of sin and its consequences in ancient Israelite society. The Hebrew word for "family" is "מִשְׁפָּחָה" (mishpachah), which can refer to a household or extended family. This highlights the interconnectedness of individuals within a community and the potential for sin to affect not just the individual but those around them. It serves as a sobering reminder of the far-reaching impact of turning away from God.

and cut off from among their people
The phrase "cut off" translates the Hebrew "כָּרַת" (karat), which means to sever or destroy. This is a severe penalty, indicating exclusion from the community and the covenant blessings of Israel. In the historical context, being cut off was both a social and spiritual death, as it meant separation from the people of God and His promises. This reflects the gravity of idolatry and the need for purity within the covenant community.

both him and all who follow him
This phrase emphasizes personal responsibility and the influence of leadership in sin. The Hebrew word for "follow" is "אַחֲרֵי" (acharei), meaning to go after or pursue. It suggests that idolatry is not just a personal failing but can lead others astray. This serves as a warning about the dangers of leading others into sin and the importance of maintaining faithfulness to God.

in prostituting themselves with Molech
The term "prostituting" comes from the Hebrew "זָנָה" (zanah), which means to commit fornication or idolatry. This metaphor of prostitution is used throughout the Bible to describe unfaithfulness to God. Molech was a Canaanite deity associated with child sacrifice, a practice abhorrent to God. The historical context reveals the cultural pressures and temptations faced by the Israelites to conform to surrounding pagan practices. This phrase serves as a stark reminder of the call to holiness and the rejection of idolatry in all its forms.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Molech
A pagan deity associated with child sacrifice, worshiped by some ancient Near Eastern cultures. The Israelites were explicitly forbidden from engaging in such practices.

2. The Israelites
God's chosen people, who were given the Law through Moses to set them apart from other nations and to guide them in holy living.

3. God (Yahweh)
The one true God who delivered the Israelites from Egypt and established a covenant with them, requiring their exclusive worship and obedience.

4. The Family
Refers to the household of the individual who engages in idolatry, indicating that the consequences of sin can extend beyond the individual to affect their family.

5. The Community
The broader Israelite community, which is called to maintain purity and holiness by adhering to God's commandments and rejecting idolatry.

Teaching Points

The Seriousness of Idolatry
Idolatry is not just a personal sin but a communal threat. It corrupts the worship of God and leads to severe consequences.

God's Holiness and Justice
God's response to idolatry reflects His holiness and justice. He cannot tolerate sin and will act to preserve the sanctity of His people.

The Impact of Sin on Families
Sin often has repercussions beyond the individual, affecting families and communities. This calls for vigilance in personal and communal holiness.

The Call to Separate from Sin
Believers are called to separate themselves from practices and influences that lead away from God, maintaining purity in worship and life.

The Importance of Obedience
Obedience to God's commands is crucial for maintaining a right relationship with Him and ensuring His blessings and protection.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the worship of Molech in ancient times compare to modern forms of idolatry, and what can we learn from this comparison?

2. In what ways can the consequences of one person's sin affect their family and community today?

3. How does understanding God's holiness and justice influence our view of sin and idolatry?

4. What steps can we take to ensure that we are not influenced by the "idols" of our culture?

5. How can we encourage and support one another in our communities to remain obedient to God's commands?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 18:9-14
This passage warns against adopting the detestable practices of the nations, including child sacrifice, which is directly related to the worship of Molech.

1 Kings 11:7
Solomon's building of high places for Molech is an example of Israel's leaders falling into idolatry, leading the nation astray.

Jeremiah 32:35
The prophet condemns the practice of child sacrifice to Molech, highlighting its abomination in the sight of God.

Romans 1:24-25
Paul speaks of God giving people over to their sinful desires when they exchange the truth of God for a lie, similar to the idolatry condemned in Leviticus.