Leviticus 24:22

You are to have the same standard of law for the foreign resident and the native; for I am the LORD your God.'"

Study Bible

You are to have
This phrase establishes a direct command from God to the Israelites. The Hebrew root here is "עָשָׂה" (asah), which means to do, make, or establish. It implies an active responsibility on the part of the Israelites to implement and uphold the law. This command is not merely a suggestion but a divine mandate, emphasizing the importance of obedience to God's statutes.

the same standard of law
The Hebrew word for "standard" is "מִשְׁפָּט" (mishpat), which refers to judgment, justice, or ordinance. This indicates that God's law is equitable and just, transcending cultural or ethnic differences. The phrase underscores the universality and impartiality of God's justice, reflecting His character as a fair and righteous judge.

for the foreign resident
The term "foreign resident" is translated from the Hebrew "גֵּר" (ger), which refers to a sojourner or alien living among the Israelites. Historically, this highlights the presence of non-Israelites within the community, who were to be treated with the same legal standards as the native-born. This inclusion reflects God's heart for all humanity and His desire for His people to be a light to the nations.

and the native-born
The Hebrew word "אֶזְרָח" (ezrach) refers to a native or citizen. By placing the foreign resident and the native-born on equal legal footing, God emphasizes the unity and equality of all people under His law. This principle challenges any form of discrimination and calls for a community that mirrors God's justice and compassion.

I am the LORD your God
This declaration, "אֲנִי יְהוָה אֱלֹהֵיכֶם" (Ani Yahweh Eloheichem), serves as the divine authority behind the command. It is a reminder of God's sovereignty and His covenant relationship with Israel. The phrase reinforces the idea that the laws given are not arbitrary but are rooted in the very nature and character of God. It calls the Israelites to obedience out of reverence and recognition of who God is.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The prophet and leader of the Israelites who received the laws from God and communicated them to the people.

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

3. Foreigners
Non-Israelites living among the Israelites, who were also subject to the same laws.

4. Mount Sinai
The place where God gave Moses the laws, including the one in Leviticus 24:22.

5. The Tabernacle
The dwelling place of God among the Israelites, where the laws were often taught and upheld.

Teaching Points

Equality Before God
Leviticus 24:22 teaches that God's law applies equally to all people, regardless of their nationality or status. This principle of equality is foundational to understanding God's justice and fairness.

Unity in Diversity
The inclusion of foreigners under the same law as the Israelites highlights the importance of unity among diverse groups. In the body of Christ, we are called to embrace and uphold this unity.

God's Unchanging Nature
The consistency of God's law for both Israelites and foreigners reflects His unchanging nature. As believers, we can trust in God's steadfastness and fairness.

Application of Justice
The verse calls us to apply justice impartially in our own lives, ensuring that we do not show favoritism or discrimination.

Living as a Witness
By living according to God's laws and principles, we serve as a witness to others, demonstrating the righteousness and justice of God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Leviticus 24:22 reflect God's character of justice and equality, and how can we apply this in our daily interactions with others?

2. In what ways does the principle of one law for both Israelites and foreigners challenge or affirm our current understanding of community and inclusion within the church?

3. How can the teachings in Leviticus 24:22 guide us in addressing issues of favoritism or discrimination in our society today?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to ensure that we are living out the principle of equality before God in our personal and communal lives?

5. How do the connections between Leviticus 24:22 and New Testament teachings on unity and equality enhance our understanding of God's plan for His people?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 12:49
This verse emphasizes the principle of one law for both the native-born and the foreigner, similar to Leviticus 24:22.

Numbers 15:15-16
These verses reiterate the concept of a single statute for both the Israelites and the foreigners living among them.

Galatians 3:28
In the New Testament, Paul speaks of the unity and equality of all believers in Christ, which echoes the principle of equality before the law found in Leviticus.

Acts 10:34-35
Peter's realization that God shows no favoritism and accepts people from every nation who fear Him and do what is right aligns with the inclusive nature of the law in Leviticus 24:22.