How does Leviticus 21:6 emphasize the holiness required of priests today? Focus Verse “They must be holy to their God and must not profane His name. They are to present the food offerings to the LORD, the food of their God, and they must be holy.” (Leviticus 21:6) Original Mandate to Israel’s Priests • “Must be holy” – complete separation from anything common • “Must not profane His name” – their behavior reflected directly on God’s reputation • “Present the food offerings” – their service touched everything offered to God, so purity was non-negotiable Continuity of Priesthood in Christ • 1 Peter 2:9 – “You are a chosen people, a royal priesthood” • Revelation 1:6 – Jesus “has made us to be a kingdom, priests to His God and Father” • Hebrews 13:15 – believers “continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise” Because every Christian now functions as priest, Leviticus 21:6 sets the bar for our conduct today. Key Principles Drawn Forward • Holiness is identity, not hobby. We are “holy to their God.” • God’s reputation is at stake. Profaning His name happens when priests (believers) live carelessly. See Romans 2:24. • Service demands purity. Just as ancient priests touched the altar, we handle spiritual sacrifices—praise, good works, gospel witness (Romans 12:1; Hebrews 13:16). Practical Outworking Today – Guard speech, media, and relationships so nothing common clings to us (Ephesians 4:29). – Approach worship and ministry with prepared hearts, not casual attitudes (Ecclesiastes 5:1). – Repent quickly when sin surfaces; confession restores usefulness (1 John 1:9). – Pursue visible integrity at home, work, and church; God’s name travels on our character (Colossians 3:17). Guarding God’s Name • The command “not profane His name” means we display His character accurately. • Numbers 6:27 shows God places His name on His people; misrepresentation dishonors Him. • Matthew 5:16 links holy living with others glorifying the Father. Offering Pure Sacrifices Today • Worship – sincere, Scriptural, Christ-centered praise (John 4:24). • Service – acts of love done for His glory (1 Corinthians 10:31). • Witness – gospel proclamation backed by holy lives (Philippians 2:15-16). Encouragement to Live Consecrated God still calls His priests—every believer—to the standard of Leviticus 21:6. Set apart, mindful of His name, and diligent in pure offerings, we embody the holiness that draws a watching world to the Holy One who redeemed us. |
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