Yes, I was afraid of this. Another day of laws. Ho hum. I need to remind myself that for Jewish people, this is wonderful stuff. This is where it’s at. The law isn’t a burden, it’s a gift and a delight. Of course it’s detailed - life is detailed, and if it’s going to be of use in any and every circumstance, it’s got to cover it all. Keep reading.
Redemption of inheritance
Leviticus 25:25-34
Care of the poor
Leviticus 25:35-46
Redemption of the poor
Leviticus 25:47-55
Other laws given; conditions for blessing
Leviticus 26:1-13
Warnings of chastisement
Leviticus 26:14-31
Dispersion predicted
Leviticus 26:32-39
Covenant remains (conditional)
Leviticus 26:40-46
Dedicated persons and things (tax)
Leviticus 27:1-13
Listen to the mercy and grace in these laws! “If any of your fellow Israelites become poor and are unable to support themselves among you, help them as you would a foreigner and stranger.” If only we could like like this.
God promises rich and continued blessing if people will keep his laws. “I will walk among you and be your God, and you will be my people” (26:12). But if they don’t, then they will overrun by their enemies, by disease and plague, and life will be a painful struggle. This is like the curse meted out to Adam and Eve, but made more specific with the threats of the enemies round about them. Classic carrot and stick treatment here, and in many ways these words apply to the time when they are living in the Promised Land. They haven’t got there yet, and there is some tension over whether they will make it. We’ve been following the promise ever since it was first made to Abraham. But is it an absolute promise - will it come true no matter what? Or does it depend on the Israelites’ obedience?
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