Leviticus 19:1-37

Read Leviticus 19:1-37 

Helpful Background Information:

• The book of Leviticus follows right after the events found in the book of Exodus. At this point, the Israelites have been freed from slavery in Egypt but they are still learning how to live as God’s covenant people. 

• One point of emphasis throughout the book is that the people of Israel were called to live differently than their Canaanite neighbors (Leviticus 18-20). Having been saved by a holy God, the Israelites were to represent His holiness on earth (Leviticus 19:2).

• One of the main ways the people were to fulfill this calling was by their sincere love for one another. If one Israelite hated another (Leviticus 19:17), they would be fundamentally misrepresenting the God whose grace had saved them and unified them as a people. 

Reflection Questions: 

• A high calling is given to God’s people in Leviticus 19:2. 

  • How would you put this verse in your own words? 

  • How does the command for God’s people to be holy connect to the command for His people to love each other? 

• In both Leviticus 19 and 1 John 2, serious warnings are given to those who claim to be in right standing with God while harboring hatred for another believer. 

  • Why do you think this warning is reiterated throughout the Bible?

  • Is there anyone who you’ve been struggling to love in the way God has called you to? If so, pray and ask God to help you see them as He does.