Leviticus 11:45

For I am the LORD, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt so that I would be your God; therefore be holy, because I am holy.

Study Bible

For I am the LORD
This phrase establishes the authority and identity of God as Yahweh, the covenant-keeping God of Israel. The Hebrew word for "LORD" is "YHWH," often vocalized as Yahweh. This name signifies God's eternal existence and His unchanging nature. In the context of Leviticus, it underscores God's sovereignty and His right to command His people. Historically, this declaration would remind the Israelites of their unique relationship with God, who delivered them from Egypt and established them as His chosen people.

who brought you up out of the land of Egypt
This phrase serves as a reminder of God's redemptive act in history. The Hebrew verb "brought up" (הַמַּעֲלֶה, ha-ma'aleh) emphasizes God's active role in delivering Israel from slavery. This historical event is foundational for Israel's identity and their covenant relationship with God. It is a call to remember God's past faithfulness as a basis for present obedience. The Exodus is a central theme in the Old Testament, symbolizing salvation and God's power to redeem.

to be your God
This phrase highlights the purpose of God's deliverance: to establish a personal and communal relationship with His people. The Hebrew word for "God" here is "Elohim," which conveys the idea of power and majesty. This relationship is not just about deliverance but about ongoing worship and obedience. It reflects the covenantal promise that God would be their God, and they would be His people, a theme that runs throughout the Scriptures.

Therefore be holy, because I am holy
The call to holiness is a central theme in Leviticus. The Hebrew word for "holy" (קָדוֹשׁ, qadosh) means "set apart" or "consecrated." God's holiness is the standard for His people. This command is not just about ritual purity but encompasses moral and ethical living. The Israelites are to reflect God's character in their lives. In the broader biblical context, this call to holiness is echoed in the New Testament, where believers are also called to be holy as God is holy (1 Peter 1:16). It is an invitation to live in a way that honors God and reflects His nature to the world.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, to whom the laws in Leviticus were given. They were called to be holy and set apart from other nations.

2. God (Yahweh)
The one true God who delivered the Israelites from Egypt and established a covenant with them, calling them to holiness.

3. Egypt
The land of bondage from which God delivered the Israelites, symbolizing sin and oppression.

Teaching Points

Holiness as a Response to Deliverance
God’s deliverance from Egypt is a foundational reason for the call to holiness. Just as the Israelites were called to be holy because God delivered them, Christians are called to live holy lives in response to Christ’s deliverance from sin.

The Nature of Holiness
The Hebrew word for holy, "qadosh," implies being set apart. Holiness involves separation from sin and dedication to God. This principle remains relevant for Christians today, who are called to be distinct from the world.

Holiness in Daily Life
Holiness is not just a spiritual concept but a practical one that affects daily living. It involves making choices that honor God in every aspect of life, from what we consume to how we interact with others.

The Role of Obedience
Obedience to God’s commands is a key aspect of holiness. Just as the Israelites were given specific laws to follow, Christians are called to obey the teachings of Christ and the apostles.

Holiness and Community
Holiness is both personal and communal. The call to be holy was given to the entire nation of Israel, and similarly, the church is called to be a holy community that reflects God’s character to the world.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the historical context of Israel’s deliverance from Egypt enhance our understanding of the call to holiness in Leviticus 11:45?

2. In what ways can the concept of being "set apart" (qadosh) be applied to modern Christian living?

3. How do the New Testament teachings on holiness (e.g., 1 Peter 1:15-16) build upon the foundation laid in Leviticus 11:45?

4. What are some practical steps you can take to pursue holiness in your daily life, and how can you rely on God’s strength in this pursuit?

5. How can the church today embody the communal aspect of holiness, and what impact might this have on the surrounding culture?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 19:5-6
This passage emphasizes the call for Israel to be a kingdom of priests and a holy nation, which aligns with the call to holiness in Leviticus 11:45.

1 Peter 1:15-16
Peter reiterates the call to holiness for believers, quoting Leviticus, and applying it to the New Testament church.

Romans 12:1-2
Paul urges believers to present their bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, which echoes the call to holiness found in Leviticus.