Why is avoiding uncleanness important for believers today, according to Leviticus 22:5? Setting the Scene in Leviticus 22:5 “or whoever touches a crawling creature or a person that makes him unclean, whatever the uncleanness may be—” (Leviticus 22:5) Core Principles Embedded in the Verse • Uncleanness was transmissible—contact alone could defile. • Uncleanness barred a priest from eating the holy offerings (vv. 3–7). • The command springs from God’s holiness: His presence demands purity. Continuing Relevance for Believers Today • God’s nature has not changed (Malachi 3:6). Holiness still matters (1 Peter 1:15-16). • We are called “a royal priesthood” (1 Peter 2:9); the priestly standard applies spiritually. • Contact with moral or spiritual impurity dulls fellowship with God (2 Corinthians 6:17-18). • Uncleanness, tolerated, diminishes usefulness in service (2 Timothy 2:21). What Spiritual Uncleanness Looks Like Now • Persistent, unconfessed sin (1 John 1:6-7). • Compromise with worldly values (James 4:4). • Consuming defiling media or conversations (Ephesians 5:3-4). • Harboring bitterness, envy, or deceit (James 3:14-16). Benefits of Staying Clean • Unhindered access to God’s presence (Hebrews 10:19-22). • Clear conscience and renewed joy (Psalm 51:10-12). • Increased effectiveness in ministry (2 Timothy 2:21). • A distinct witness to a watching world (Philippians 2:15). Daily Practices for Maintaining Cleanness • Regular self-examination under Scripture’s light (Psalm 139:23-24). • Immediate confession and faith in Christ’s cleansing blood (1 John 1:9). • Choosing companions, entertainment, and habits that foster purity (Philippians 4:8). • Walking in the Spirit, not the flesh (Galatians 5:16). • Consistent renewal of the mind through God’s Word (Romans 12:2). Scripture Encouragements to Hold On To • “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9) • “Therefore, beloved, since we have these promises, let us cleanse ourselves from every defilement of body and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” (2 Corinthians 7:1) • “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.” (Matthew 5:8) Avoiding uncleanness, first pictured in Leviticus 22:5, remains vital: it safeguards intimacy with the Holy One, preserves our witness, and equips us for fruitful service. |
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