Leviticus 22:3

Tell them that for the generations to come, if any of their descendants in a state of uncleanness approaches the sacred offerings that the Israelites consecrate to the LORD, that person must be cut off from My presence. I am the LORD.

Study Bible

Say to them
This phrase indicates a direct command from God to Moses, emphasizing the importance of communication between God and His people. The Hebrew root "אָמַר" (amar) signifies a declaration or proclamation, underscoring the authority and seriousness of the message being conveyed. In the context of Leviticus, this reflects the ongoing dialogue between God and Israel, where God provides instructions for maintaining holiness.

For the generations to come
This phrase highlights the perpetual nature of God's commandments. The Hebrew "דּוֹר" (dor) refers to a generation, indicating that these laws are not temporary but are intended to be observed by all future descendants. This continuity underscores the timelessness of God's covenant with Israel and the enduring relevance of His laws.

if any of your descendants
Here, the focus is on the lineage of the priests, the descendants of Aaron. The Hebrew "זֶרַע" (zera) means seed or offspring, emphasizing the familial and hereditary aspect of the priesthood. This highlights the responsibility passed down through generations to uphold the sanctity of their service.

while in a state of uncleanness
The concept of uncleanness, or "טָמֵא" (tamei) in Hebrew, is central to Levitical law. It refers to a ritual impurity that disqualifies a person from participating in sacred activities. This underscores the importance of purity in approaching God, reflecting His holiness and the need for His people to be set apart.

approaches the sacred offerings
The sacred offerings, or "קָרְבָּן" (korban), are gifts dedicated to God, symbolizing the worship and devotion of the Israelites. Approaching these offerings in a state of impurity is a serious offense, as it desecrates what is holy. This phrase emphasizes the reverence required in handling what is consecrated to God.

that the Israelites consecrate to the LORD
The act of consecration, "קָדַשׁ" (qadash), means to set apart as holy. The Israelites' role in consecrating offerings signifies their active participation in maintaining a covenant relationship with God. This reflects the communal aspect of worship and the collective responsibility to honor God.

that person must be cut off from My presence
The phrase "cut off," or "כָּרַת" (karat), implies a severe consequence, often interpreted as excommunication or even death. Being cut off from God's presence is the ultimate penalty, signifying a break in the relationship with God. This underscores the gravity of maintaining holiness and the dire consequences of failing to do so.

I am the LORD
This declaration, "אֲנִי יְהוָה" (Ani Yahweh), serves as a divine signature, affirming God's authority and the sanctity of His commands. It is a reminder of God's sovereignty and the reason for obedience. This phrase encapsulates the essence of the covenant relationship, where God's identity as the LORD is central to the life and worship of His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
- The covenant God of Israel, who is holy and requires holiness from His people.

2. Aaron and His Descendants
- The priestly line chosen by God to serve in the tabernacle and later the temple, responsible for maintaining ritual purity.

3. The Israelites
- The chosen people of God, who are called to be holy and set apart from other nations.

4. The Tabernacle
- The dwelling place of God among His people, where sacrifices and offerings are made.

5. Uncleanness
- A state of ritual impurity that disqualifies a person from participating in sacred activities.

Teaching Points

Holiness and Reverence
God’s holiness demands reverence and obedience. As believers, we are called to approach God with a heart that respects His holiness and follows His commands.

The Seriousness of Sin
Sin and uncleanness separate us from God. We must take sin seriously and seek purification through repentance and faith in Christ.

Priestly Responsibility
Just as the priests were responsible for maintaining purity, believers today are called to be a royal priesthood, living lives that reflect God’s holiness.

Community Impact
Our personal holiness affects the community of believers. We must strive to live pure lives that contribute to the spiritual health of the church.

Access to God
Through Christ, we have access to God. We must not take this privilege lightly but approach Him with a clean heart and a sincere faith.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the requirement for priests to remain clean before serving in the tabernacle relate to our call to holiness today?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are approaching God with the reverence and purity He requires?

3. How does the concept of uncleanness in Leviticus 22:3 help us understand the seriousness of sin in our lives?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to maintain personal holiness in our daily lives?

5. How can the principles found in Leviticus 22:3 be applied to our role as a "royal priesthood" in the New Testament context?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 10:1-3
This passage recounts the account of Nadab and Abihu, who offered unauthorized fire before the LORD and were consumed by fire. It underscores the importance of approaching God with reverence and in accordance with His commands.

Numbers 19:20
This verse discusses the consequences of failing to purify oneself, emphasizing the seriousness of uncleanness and its impact on the community.

1 Peter 1:15-16
Peter calls believers to be holy in all their conduct, echoing the call to holiness found in Leviticus.

Hebrews 10:22
This verse encourages believers to draw near to God with a sincere heart and full assurance of faith, having been cleansed from a guilty conscience.

Isaiah 52:11
This passage calls for the people to depart from uncleanness and be pure, highlighting the theme of separation from impurity.