How does Leviticus 18:5 connect to Jesus' teachings on obedience in the Gospels? The Covenant Voice of Leviticus 18:5 “You must keep My statutes and My judgments; the one who does these things will live by them. I am the LORD.” What “live by them” Meant for Israel • Not merely exist, but enjoy covenant life under God’s blessing • Moral, civil, and ceremonial commands marked them as His people • Obedience demonstrated faith in the LORD’s authority and promises Jesus Picks Up the Same Thread • Matthew 5:17-20 – He comes “to fulfill,” not cancel, the Law; true righteousness still matters • Matthew 19:17 – “If you want to enter life, keep the commandments.” • Luke 10:25-28 – Lawyer asks about eternal life; Jesus answers with the Law and adds, “Do this and you will live.” • John 14:15 – “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” • John 15:10 – Abiding love equals kept commands, just as He kept the Father’s From Command to Completion in Christ • Perfect obedience is required—Leviticus 18:5 sets that bar • Romans 10:5-9—Paul cites Leviticus 18:5, then shows Christ is the goal of the Law for righteousness to everyone who believes • Jesus alone kept the Law flawlessly (Hebrews 4:15), securing the “life” promised • Through faith we gain His righteousness, yet discipleship still calls for practical obedience (James 1:22-25) How the Life Principle Continues for Believers • The Spirit writes the Law on our hearts (Jeremiah 31:33; John 16:13) • Obedience is no longer external performance but loving response (1 John 5:3) • Blessing flows as we walk in His ways (John 10:10; Matthew 7:24-27) Key Takeaways • Leviticus 18:5 and Jesus both link obedience with true life • Christ’s perfect obedience fulfills the Law and opens the way for ours • Believers live out that same covenant principle, now empowered by the Spirit, proving our love for the Lord and enjoying the life He promised |
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