Leviticus 22:31

You are to keep My commandments and practice them. I am the LORD.

Study Bible

You are to keep
The phrase "You are to keep" is a directive that implies a sense of guardianship and responsibility. In Hebrew, the word for "keep" is "shamar," which means to guard, watch over, or preserve. This word suggests an active engagement in maintaining the integrity and purity of God's commandments. Historically, this reflects the covenant relationship between God and Israel, where the Israelites were called to be a holy nation, set apart by their adherence to God's laws. The act of keeping God's commandments is not passive but requires vigilance and dedication, symbolizing a deep commitment to God's will.

My commandments
The term "My commandments" refers to the divine laws given by God to the Israelites. In Hebrew, "commandments" is "mitzvot," which encompasses not only the Ten Commandments but all the laws and ordinances given through Moses. These commandments were central to the identity and religious life of Israel, serving as a guide for moral and spiritual conduct. Theologically, they represent God's revealed will and His desire for His people to live in a way that reflects His holiness. The commandments are not arbitrary rules but are rooted in God's character and His covenant relationship with His people.

and practice them
The phrase "and practice them" emphasizes the importance of action in the life of faith. The Hebrew word for "practice" is "asah," which means to do, make, or accomplish. This indicates that the commandments are not merely to be acknowledged intellectually but are to be lived out in daily life. The historical context of Leviticus, with its detailed laws and rituals, underscores the importance of obedience and the practical application of God's laws. Practicing the commandments is a demonstration of faith and love for God, as it involves aligning one's actions with His divine will.

I am the LORD
The declaration "I am the LORD" serves as a powerful reminder of the authority and identity of God. In Hebrew, "LORD" is "YHWH," the sacred name of God, which signifies His eternal, self-existent nature. This phrase is a recurring motif in Leviticus, reinforcing the idea that the commandments are not human inventions but are given by the sovereign Creator. The statement underscores God's authority and the reason for obedience: because He is the LORD. It also reflects the covenant relationship, where God has chosen Israel as His people, and they are to respond in obedience and worship. This acknowledgment of God's lordship is foundational to understanding the purpose and significance of the commandments.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who commands His people to live according to His statutes.

2. Moses
The prophet and leader through whom God delivered the laws to the Israelites.

3. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who are called to live in holiness and obedience to God's commandments.

4. The Tabernacle
The place of worship where the Israelites were to bring their offerings and where the priests served.

5. Priests
The descendants of Aaron, responsible for maintaining the holiness of the Tabernacle and the proper conduct of worship.

Teaching Points

Obedience as Worship
Obedience to God's commandments is an act of worship. Just as the Israelites were called to keep and practice God's laws, Christians today are called to live out their faith through obedience to God's Word.

Holiness in Daily Life
The call to holiness is not limited to religious rituals but extends to every aspect of life. Believers are to reflect God's holiness in their actions, decisions, and interactions with others.

The Authority of God
Recognizing God as the LORD emphasizes His authority over our lives. Our obedience is a response to His sovereignty and lordship.

Consistency in Faith
Practicing God's commandments requires consistency and intentionality. It is not enough to know God's laws; we must actively live them out.

The Role of Community
Just as the Israelites were a community called to uphold God's laws together, the church today is a community that supports and encourages one another in obedience and holiness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding God as "the LORD" influence your approach to obedience in your daily life?

2. In what ways can you practice holiness in your current circumstances, reflecting the call in Leviticus 22:31?

3. How do the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament reinforce the command to keep and practice God's commandments?

4. What role does the Christian community play in helping you live out the principles found in Leviticus 22:31?

5. How can you ensure that your obedience to God's commandments is consistent and not just occasional or situational?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 20
The giving of the Ten Commandments, which are foundational to the laws in Leviticus.

Deuteronomy 6
The Shema, which emphasizes loving and obeying God with all one's heart, soul, and strength.

John 14
Jesus speaks about the importance of keeping His commandments as a demonstration of love for Him.

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

James 1
James emphasizes being doers of the word, not just hearers, which aligns with practicing God's commandments.