Leviticus 20:6

Whoever 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.

Study Bible

I will set My face against that person
This phrase indicates a direct and personal action from God. The Hebrew word for "set" is "נָתַן" (natan), which means to give, put, or set. In this context, it implies a deliberate turning of God's attention towards the individual in judgment. The "face" of God symbolizes His presence and favor; thus, setting His face against someone signifies divine disapproval and impending judgment. Historically, this reflects the covenant relationship between God and Israel, where obedience brought blessings and disobedience brought curses (Deuteronomy 28).

who turns to mediums and spiritists
The Hebrew words for "mediums" and "spiritists" are "אוֹב" (ov) and "יִדְּעֹנִי" (yiddeoni), respectively. These terms refer to individuals who claim to communicate with the dead or spirits, practices that were common in ancient Near Eastern cultures. The Israelites were explicitly forbidden from engaging in such practices (Deuteronomy 18:10-12) as they were considered abominations and a direct violation of the first commandment, which calls for exclusive worship of Yahweh.

to prostitute himself with them
The use of the word "prostitute" (Hebrew: "זָנָה", zanah) is metaphorical, describing spiritual unfaithfulness. In the Old Testament, idolatry and turning to other gods or forbidden practices are often depicted as spiritual adultery. This language underscores the seriousness of the sin, equating it with the betrayal of a marital covenant, which is a profound violation of trust and loyalty.

I will cut him off from his people
The phrase "cut off" (Hebrew: "כָּרַת", karat) implies a severe consequence, often understood as death or excommunication. This reflects the communal nature of Israelite society, where individual actions could affect the entire community. Being "cut off" meant losing one's place and inheritance among God's people, a fate that was both physically and spiritually devastating. This underscores the holiness required of God's people and the seriousness of maintaining purity in worship and practice.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Mediums and Spiritists
Individuals who claim to communicate with the dead or spirits, often associated with occult practices.

2. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, to whom the laws in Leviticus were given.

3. God
The sovereign deity who sets forth laws and consequences for His people.

4. The Wilderness
The setting where the Israelites received the laws from God through Moses.

5. Moses
The prophet and leader of the Israelites who conveyed God's laws to the people.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Idolatry
Turning to mediums and spiritists is a form of idolatry, as it places trust in something other than God. Believers must guard against anything that takes God's rightful place in their lives.

God's Holiness and Standards
God's command to avoid mediums underscores His holiness and the standards He sets for His people. Christians are called to live set apart, reflecting God's character.

The Consequences of Disobedience
The warning of being "cut off" serves as a reminder of the serious consequences of disobedience. It is crucial to understand that sin separates us from God and His community.

Seeking God Alone
Believers are encouraged to seek guidance and wisdom from God alone, through prayer and Scripture, rather than turning to worldly or occult practices.

Repentance and Restoration
There is always an opportunity for repentance and restoration. Just as the Ephesians turned from their practices, believers today can turn back to God and find forgiveness.

Bible Study Questions

1. What are some modern-day practices that might be considered equivalent to consulting mediums or spiritists, and how can Christians avoid them?

2. How does understanding the holiness of God influence our daily decisions and interactions with the world?

3. In what ways can believers ensure they are seeking guidance from God rather than other sources?

4. Reflect on a time when you faced consequences for disobedience. How did that experience shape your relationship with God?

5. How can the church support individuals who are struggling with practices that separate them from God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 18:10-12
This passage also condemns the practice of consulting mediums and spiritists, emphasizing that such practices are detestable to God.

1 Samuel 28
The account of King Saul consulting the witch of Endor, illustrating the consequences of turning to mediums.

Isaiah 8:19-20
Encourages seeking God rather than mediums, highlighting the importance of relying on divine guidance.

Galatians 5:19-21
Lists sorcery as a work of the flesh, warning believers against such practices.

Acts 19:18-20
Describes new believers in Ephesus renouncing their occult practices, demonstrating repentance and transformation.