Today’s Bible reading from the Five Day Bible Reading Plan: Leviticus 1-3; Psalm 27; Hebrews 2

Leviticus is the book where many who try to read through the Bible in a year spin out. The perceived irrelevance of this book to our modern day makes many lose interest quickly. Yet, I would say there is much to be gained from an understanding of this book.

This shows God’s holiness. The amount of offerings and laws shows that God is holy and seeks the holiness of His people. We must not allow the concept of grace to deter us from an understanding of His holiness–or the pursuit of our own holiness before God. These offerings sought to cover outward sins–but they could never give anyone a new heart. Thus, the holy One of God, Jesus Christ, came to do what those sacrifices could not–give us a heart of flesh that is sensitive to the Spirit’s leading.

This book shows how God’s people are in the world but distinct from the world. Many of the practices God commands His people to do are because the surrounding nations engage in worship that is detestable to Him. So, distinguishing ourselves as God’s people from the world around us–even as we occupy the world God made as a witness to those around us–is an important understanding for followers of Jesus. As Christ lives in us, He makes us less like the world and more like Himself. Thankfully!

So, recognizing Leviticus’ role in Scripture and in our lives will, hopefully, allow you to approach this with less trepidation and more jubilation.