What is the meaning of Leviticus 20:24? But I have told you • The Lord anchors His promise in words already spoken, underscoring the reliability of His voice (Numbers 23:19; Leviticus 18:1–2). • By beginning with “But,” He contrasts His sure revelation with the unstable, sinful customs just condemned in Leviticus 20:1-23. • This reminder calls Israel—and us—to listen afresh whenever God repeats Himself (Deuteronomy 4:9-10). that you will inherit their land • “Their land” points to Canaan, a territory presently occupied by nations steeped in idolatry (Deuteronomy 7:1-2). • Inheritance language signals permanent possession, not mere occupation (Genesis 15:18; Joshua 21:43-45). • God’s justice is two-edged: judgment on the wicked and gift to His people (Deuteronomy 9:4-5). since I will give it to you as an inheritance • The land is a divine gift, not a human achievement (Exodus 6:8; Psalm 105:11). • Grace precedes obedience; Israel’s role is to receive and then steward what God provides (Deuteronomy 8:10-11). • This gift ties directly to covenant faithfulness, assuring future generations of the same promise (Genesis 17:8). —a land flowing with milk and honey • The phrase paints a vivid picture of abundance—pasture for livestock (“milk”) and fertile fields for crops (“honey”) (Numbers 13:27). • God delights in blessing His people with tangible goodness (Deuteronomy 11:11-12). • The fertility of the land also serves as a continual reminder of the Creator’s provision, countering any temptation to credit idols (Hosea 2:8). I am the LORD your God • The covenant name “LORD” (YHWH) guarantees the promise because it rests on His unchanging character (Exodus 3:14). • Ownership is twofold: He owns the land and the people who dwell there (Psalm 24:1; Leviticus 25:23). • His identity shapes theirs; worship and obedience flow naturally from recognizing who He is (Leviticus 18:4-5; Deuteronomy 10:17). who has set you apart from the peoples • Holiness means separation unto God, not isolation from mission (Exodus 19:5-6). • Distinct laws on diet, worship, and morality mark Israel as God’s treasured possession (Leviticus 11:44-45; Deuteronomy 14:2). • For believers today, this same principle of sanctification continues: “You are a chosen people…so that you may proclaim the virtues of Him” (1 Peter 2:9; 2 Corinthians 6:17-18). summary Leviticus 20:24 is a compact declaration of God’s faithfulness and Israel’s identity. He reminds them He has spoken, promises them the land, gifts it as a heritage, emphasizes its rich provision, grounds it all in His own name, and calls them to distinct holiness. The verse assures us that the Lord who sets apart His people also supplies everything needed for life, godliness, and witness in the world. |
    |