Introduction: The first 15 chapters of Leviticus demonstrate and instruct the people of God on the proper forms of worship, as well as demonstrate the nature and character of God. From sacrifice to food choice, everything was meant to lead the Israelite into a behavioral pattern parallel to the holy nature of God. It is important to note, however, that these first 15 chapters only dealt with the ritual worship of God.Man is not to merely reflect God's nature and holiness in the religious ideal, but must also do so in subjects of morality and ethical living. Chapters 16-26 deal with the law of God on issues of morality and clearly state the effect of both obedience and disobedience.
I. Day of Atonement - Leviticus 16
A. The issue at hand is the cleansing of God's Mercy Seat (the Holy of Holies)
B. The tabernacle needed cleansed because the people sinned. Their behavior marred the presence of God on the earth.
C. Blood was shed to cleanse the tabernacle from sin, as well as atone for Aaron and the people
D. The sins of the people were "carried away" on the back of the live goat.
Conclusion: God's holiness must be preserved on the earth.
II. Bloodguilt - Leviticus 17
A. God forbids the misuse of blood, either in sacrifice or in consumption.
B. Blood = life. Blood shed = death, and demands vengeance from the God of Life (See Gen 9:6)
C. The punishment for desecrating blood is to be "cut off"
Conclusion: The covenant of God is based on "blood" (Lev. 17:11) and, therefore, must be honored.
III. Exclusive Sex - Leviticus 18
A. God forbids unnatural sex.
B. Sex is to be between a man and his wife alone.
C. The punishment for unlawful sex is to be "cut off"
Conclusion: The covenant of God is based on exclusivity (18:2) and, therefore, the marital covenant of the people must be honored.
IV. Godliness Lived Out - Leviticus 19-20, 26
A. God calls His people to relationship (v.1-8)
B. God calls His people to love one another (v.9-18)
C. God calls His people to abstain from being like others (v.19-20:7)
D. The punishment for disobedience is death in every circumstance (chapter 26)
E. The land is subjugated to the sins of the people and is vindicated by the justice of God (26:33-35)
Conclusion: God has not changed the rules since Gen 2:17. Man is to bear the image of God, which man must be as God is. Failure to do so results in death; no sacrifice available.
V. Conclusion
God loves man, but it is not because of man. God loves His holiness because it alone is good and worthy of His love. As God's image bearer, man has the ability to receive and reflect God's holiness. The beauty of man, therefore, is not innate to man, but shines only when he is living in right relationship with God, reflecting His holiness.
Man's purpose in life is not his pleasure, but God's holiness. All of Creation is designed to enjoy the worship of God. Hence when man sins, God must intervene for the sake of the other parts of Creation. His glory must be displayed!
Man must get over himself, and live for the only "good" thing is all of eternity: the holiness of God. This is why man was created, and this is the standard by which man will be judged.
