Leviticus 14

Leviticus 14:1

Fins and Scales

It concerns all water animals in all waters. In Scripture, the seas usually speak of difficult situations, trials, through which believers must find their way. In the fish species that can be eaten, we see the characteristics that help a believer to go through them. Fins give power to swim against the current and keep the right course; scales protect against wrong influences from their surroundings.

Leviticus 14:2

Fins and Scales

It concerns all water animals in all waters. In Scripture, the seas usually speak of difficult situations, trials, through which believers must find their way. In the fish species that can be eaten, we see the characteristics that help a believer to go through them. Fins give power to swim against the current and keep the right course; scales protect against wrong influences from their surroundings.

Leviticus 14:3

Fins and Scales

It concerns all water animals in all waters. In Scripture, the seas usually speak of difficult situations, trials, through which believers must find their way. In the fish species that can be eaten, we see the characteristics that help a believer to go through them. Fins give power to swim against the current and keep the right course; scales protect against wrong influences from their surroundings.

Leviticus 14:4

Fins and Scales

It concerns all water animals in all waters. In Scripture, the seas usually speak of difficult situations, trials, through which believers must find their way. In the fish species that can be eaten, we see the characteristics that help a believer to go through them. Fins give power to swim against the current and keep the right course; scales protect against wrong influences from their surroundings.

Leviticus 14:5

Winged Animals

Of the birds and winged animals, not a single clean animal is mentioned, although they do exist (Genesis 8:20). Thus a dove may serve as an offering to God (Leviticus 1:14). Birds speak in general of the inhabitants of the airspace. There is talk about “the birds of the air”. Usually this happens in a negative sense (Matthew 13:4; 32; Revelation 18:2). They then represent demonic influences that move in the heavenly spheres.

In a spiritual sense, these are persons or spirits of a non-earthly nature who feel at home in the Christian area, but are unclean. Many demonic influences in the form of false teachings have entered professing Christianity. They are like birds of prey, as the eagle and the vulture, which live at the expense of the death of others. It is to be applied to robbing away the honor of God and claiming it for oneself. Eating such birds means allowing oneself to be used in this evil work.

The only exceptions in this long line of unclean winged animals are some species of locusts (Leviticus 11:21-22). Above their four feet they have two jointed legs or jumping legs with which they jump on the earth. This allow them to move above the earth over a long distance. They may be eaten. They formed the food of John the baptist (Mark 1:6).

For us, to detest what God has forbidden to eat means in practice: “Abhor what is evil” (Romans 12:9b).

Leviticus 14:6

Winged Animals

Of the birds and winged animals, not a single clean animal is mentioned, although they do exist (Genesis 8:20). Thus a dove may serve as an offering to God (Leviticus 1:14). Birds speak in general of the inhabitants of the airspace. There is talk about “the birds of the air”. Usually this happens in a negative sense (Matthew 13:4; 32; Revelation 18:2). They then represent demonic influences that move in the heavenly spheres.

In a spiritual sense, these are persons or spirits of a non-earthly nature who feel at home in the Christian area, but are unclean. Many demonic influences in the form of false teachings have entered professing Christianity. They are like birds of prey, as the eagle and the vulture, which live at the expense of the death of others. It is to be applied to robbing away the honor of God and claiming it for oneself. Eating such birds means allowing oneself to be used in this evil work.

The only exceptions in this long line of unclean winged animals are some species of locusts (Leviticus 11:21-22). Above their four feet they have two jointed legs or jumping legs with which they jump on the earth. This allow them to move above the earth over a long distance. They may be eaten. They formed the food of John the baptist (Mark 1:6).

For us, to detest what God has forbidden to eat means in practice: “Abhor what is evil” (Romans 12:9b).

Leviticus 14:7

Winged Animals

Of the birds and winged animals, not a single clean animal is mentioned, although they do exist (Genesis 8:20). Thus a dove may serve as an offering to God (Leviticus 1:14). Birds speak in general of the inhabitants of the airspace. There is talk about “the birds of the air”. Usually this happens in a negative sense (Matthew 13:4; 32; Revelation 18:2). They then represent demonic influences that move in the heavenly spheres.

In a spiritual sense, these are persons or spirits of a non-earthly nature who feel at home in the Christian area, but are unclean. Many demonic influences in the form of false teachings have entered professing Christianity. They are like birds of prey, as the eagle and the vulture, which live at the expense of the death of others. It is to be applied to robbing away the honor of God and claiming it for oneself. Eating such birds means allowing oneself to be used in this evil work.

The only exceptions in this long line of unclean winged animals are some species of locusts (Leviticus 11:21-22). Above their four feet they have two jointed legs or jumping legs with which they jump on the earth. This allow them to move above the earth over a long distance. They may be eaten. They formed the food of John the baptist (Mark 1:6).

For us, to detest what God has forbidden to eat means in practice: “Abhor what is evil” (Romans 12:9b).

Leviticus 14:8

Winged Animals

Of the birds and winged animals, not a single clean animal is mentioned, although they do exist (Genesis 8:20). Thus a dove may serve as an offering to God (Leviticus 1:14). Birds speak in general of the inhabitants of the airspace. There is talk about “the birds of the air”. Usually this happens in a negative sense (Matthew 13:4; 32; Revelation 18:2). They then represent demonic influences that move in the heavenly spheres.

In a spiritual sense, these are persons or spirits of a non-earthly nature who feel at home in the Christian area, but are unclean. Many demonic influences in the form of false teachings have entered professing Christianity. They are like birds of prey, as the eagle and the vulture, which live at the expense of the death of others. It is to be applied to robbing away the honor of God and claiming it for oneself. Eating such birds means allowing oneself to be used in this evil work.

The only exceptions in this long line of unclean winged animals are some species of locusts (Leviticus 11:21-22). Above their four feet they have two jointed legs or jumping legs with which they jump on the earth. This allow them to move above the earth over a long distance. They may be eaten. They formed the food of John the baptist (Mark 1:6).

For us, to detest what God has forbidden to eat means in practice: “Abhor what is evil” (Romans 12:9b).

Leviticus 14:9

Winged Animals

Of the birds and winged animals, not a single clean animal is mentioned, although they do exist (Genesis 8:20). Thus a dove may serve as an offering to God (Leviticus 1:14). Birds speak in general of the inhabitants of the airspace. There is talk about “the birds of the air”. Usually this happens in a negative sense (Matthew 13:4; 32; Revelation 18:2). They then represent demonic influences that move in the heavenly spheres.

In a spiritual sense, these are persons or spirits of a non-earthly nature who feel at home in the Christian area, but are unclean. Many demonic influences in the form of false teachings have entered professing Christianity. They are like birds of prey, as the eagle and the vulture, which live at the expense of the death of others. It is to be applied to robbing away the honor of God and claiming it for oneself. Eating such birds means allowing oneself to be used in this evil work.

The only exceptions in this long line of unclean winged animals are some species of locusts (Leviticus 11:21-22). Above their four feet they have two jointed legs or jumping legs with which they jump on the earth. This allow them to move above the earth over a long distance. They may be eaten. They formed the food of John the baptist (Mark 1:6).

For us, to detest what God has forbidden to eat means in practice: “Abhor what is evil” (Romans 12:9b).

Leviticus 14:10

Winged Animals

Of the birds and winged animals, not a single clean animal is mentioned, although they do exist (Genesis 8:20). Thus a dove may serve as an offering to God (Leviticus 1:14). Birds speak in general of the inhabitants of the airspace. There is talk about “the birds of the air”. Usually this happens in a negative sense (Matthew 13:4; 32; Revelation 18:2). They then represent demonic influences that move in the heavenly spheres.

In a spiritual sense, these are persons or spirits of a non-earthly nature who feel at home in the Christian area, but are unclean. Many demonic influences in the form of false teachings have entered professing Christianity. They are like birds of prey, as the eagle and the vulture, which live at the expense of the death of others. It is to be applied to robbing away the honor of God and claiming it for oneself. Eating such birds means allowing oneself to be used in this evil work.

The only exceptions in this long line of unclean winged animals are some species of locusts (Leviticus 11:21-22). Above their four feet they have two jointed legs or jumping legs with which they jump on the earth. This allow them to move above the earth over a long distance. They may be eaten. They formed the food of John the baptist (Mark 1:6).

For us, to detest what God has forbidden to eat means in practice: “Abhor what is evil” (Romans 12:9b).

Leviticus 14:11

Winged Animals

Of the birds and winged animals, not a single clean animal is mentioned, although they do exist (Genesis 8:20). Thus a dove may serve as an offering to God (Leviticus 1:14). Birds speak in general of the inhabitants of the airspace. There is talk about “the birds of the air”. Usually this happens in a negative sense (Matthew 13:4; 32; Revelation 18:2). They then represent demonic influences that move in the heavenly spheres.

In a spiritual sense, these are persons or spirits of a non-earthly nature who feel at home in the Christian area, but are unclean. Many demonic influences in the form of false teachings have entered professing Christianity. They are like birds of prey, as the eagle and the vulture, which live at the expense of the death of others. It is to be applied to robbing away the honor of God and claiming it for oneself. Eating such birds means allowing oneself to be used in this evil work.

The only exceptions in this long line of unclean winged animals are some species of locusts (Leviticus 11:21-22). Above their four feet they have two jointed legs or jumping legs with which they jump on the earth. This allow them to move above the earth over a long distance. They may be eaten. They formed the food of John the baptist (Mark 1:6).

For us, to detest what God has forbidden to eat means in practice: “Abhor what is evil” (Romans 12:9b).

Leviticus 14:12

Winged Animals

Of the birds and winged animals, not a single clean animal is mentioned, although they do exist (Genesis 8:20). Thus a dove may serve as an offering to God (Leviticus 1:14). Birds speak in general of the inhabitants of the airspace. There is talk about “the birds of the air”. Usually this happens in a negative sense (Matthew 13:4; 32; Revelation 18:2). They then represent demonic influences that move in the heavenly spheres.

In a spiritual sense, these are persons or spirits of a non-earthly nature who feel at home in the Christian area, but are unclean. Many demonic influences in the form of false teachings have entered professing Christianity. They are like birds of prey, as the eagle and the vulture, which live at the expense of the death of others. It is to be applied to robbing away the honor of God and claiming it for oneself. Eating such birds means allowing oneself to be used in this evil work.

The only exceptions in this long line of unclean winged animals are some species of locusts (Leviticus 11:21-22). Above their four feet they have two jointed legs or jumping legs with which they jump on the earth. This allow them to move above the earth over a long distance. They may be eaten. They formed the food of John the baptist (Mark 1:6).

For us, to detest what God has forbidden to eat means in practice: “Abhor what is evil” (Romans 12:9b).

Leviticus 14:13

Winged Animals

Of the birds and winged animals, not a single clean animal is mentioned, although they do exist (Genesis 8:20). Thus a dove may serve as an offering to God (Leviticus 1:14). Birds speak in general of the inhabitants of the airspace. There is talk about “the birds of the air”. Usually this happens in a negative sense (Matthew 13:4; 32; Revelation 18:2). They then represent demonic influences that move in the heavenly spheres.

In a spiritual sense, these are persons or spirits of a non-earthly nature who feel at home in the Christian area, but are unclean. Many demonic influences in the form of false teachings have entered professing Christianity. They are like birds of prey, as the eagle and the vulture, which live at the expense of the death of others. It is to be applied to robbing away the honor of God and claiming it for oneself. Eating such birds means allowing oneself to be used in this evil work.

The only exceptions in this long line of unclean winged animals are some species of locusts (Leviticus 11:21-22). Above their four feet they have two jointed legs or jumping legs with which they jump on the earth. This allow them to move above the earth over a long distance. They may be eaten. They formed the food of John the baptist (Mark 1:6).

For us, to detest what God has forbidden to eat means in practice: “Abhor what is evil” (Romans 12:9b).

Leviticus 14:14

Winged Animals

Of the birds and winged animals, not a single clean animal is mentioned, although they do exist (Genesis 8:20). Thus a dove may serve as an offering to God (Leviticus 1:14). Birds speak in general of the inhabitants of the airspace. There is talk about “the birds of the air”. Usually this happens in a negative sense (Matthew 13:4; 32; Revelation 18:2). They then represent demonic influences that move in the heavenly spheres.

In a spiritual sense, these are persons or spirits of a non-earthly nature who feel at home in the Christian area, but are unclean. Many demonic influences in the form of false teachings have entered professing Christianity. They are like birds of prey, as the eagle and the vulture, which live at the expense of the death of others. It is to be applied to robbing away the honor of God and claiming it for oneself. Eating such birds means allowing oneself to be used in this evil work.

The only exceptions in this long line of unclean winged animals are some species of locusts (Leviticus 11:21-22). Above their four feet they have two jointed legs or jumping legs with which they jump on the earth. This allow them to move above the earth over a long distance. They may be eaten. They formed the food of John the baptist (Mark 1:6).

For us, to detest what God has forbidden to eat means in practice: “Abhor what is evil” (Romans 12:9b).

Leviticus 14:15

Winged Animals

Of the birds and winged animals, not a single clean animal is mentioned, although they do exist (Genesis 8:20). Thus a dove may serve as an offering to God (Leviticus 1:14). Birds speak in general of the inhabitants of the airspace. There is talk about “the birds of the air”. Usually this happens in a negative sense (Matthew 13:4; 32; Revelation 18:2). They then represent demonic influences that move in the heavenly spheres.

In a spiritual sense, these are persons or spirits of a non-earthly nature who feel at home in the Christian area, but are unclean. Many demonic influences in the form of false teachings have entered professing Christianity. They are like birds of prey, as the eagle and the vulture, which live at the expense of the death of others. It is to be applied to robbing away the honor of God and claiming it for oneself. Eating such birds means allowing oneself to be used in this evil work.

The only exceptions in this long line of unclean winged animals are some species of locusts (Leviticus 11:21-22). Above their four feet they have two jointed legs or jumping legs with which they jump on the earth. This allow them to move above the earth over a long distance. They may be eaten. They formed the food of John the baptist (Mark 1:6).

For us, to detest what God has forbidden to eat means in practice: “Abhor what is evil” (Romans 12:9b).

Leviticus 14:16

Touching Which Makes Unclean

Not only is it forbidden to eat unclean animals, but also to touch the carcass causes uncleanness. Touching does not go as far as eating, but it already has a wrong effect. The uncleanness lasts until the evening. Cleansing of clothes must take place. We become unclean by what we see or hear, even without opening ourselves completely to it, without eating of it in a spiritual sense. Yet, even unconsciously, our behavior can be influenced by it. That is corrected by washing ourselves with the water of God’s Word (Ephesians 5:26), that is by reading God’s Word.

Leviticus 14:17

Touching Which Makes Unclean

Not only is it forbidden to eat unclean animals, but also to touch the carcass causes uncleanness. Touching does not go as far as eating, but it already has a wrong effect. The uncleanness lasts until the evening. Cleansing of clothes must take place. We become unclean by what we see or hear, even without opening ourselves completely to it, without eating of it in a spiritual sense. Yet, even unconsciously, our behavior can be influenced by it. That is corrected by washing ourselves with the water of God’s Word (Ephesians 5:26), that is by reading God’s Word.

Leviticus 14:18

Touching Which Makes Unclean

Not only is it forbidden to eat unclean animals, but also to touch the carcass causes uncleanness. Touching does not go as far as eating, but it already has a wrong effect. The uncleanness lasts until the evening. Cleansing of clothes must take place. We become unclean by what we see or hear, even without opening ourselves completely to it, without eating of it in a spiritual sense. Yet, even unconsciously, our behavior can be influenced by it. That is corrected by washing ourselves with the water of God’s Word (Ephesians 5:26), that is by reading God’s Word.

Leviticus 14:19

Touching Which Makes Unclean

Not only is it forbidden to eat unclean animals, but also to touch the carcass causes uncleanness. Touching does not go as far as eating, but it already has a wrong effect. The uncleanness lasts until the evening. Cleansing of clothes must take place. We become unclean by what we see or hear, even without opening ourselves completely to it, without eating of it in a spiritual sense. Yet, even unconsciously, our behavior can be influenced by it. That is corrected by washing ourselves with the water of God’s Word (Ephesians 5:26), that is by reading God’s Word.

Leviticus 14:20

Touching Which Makes Unclean

Not only is it forbidden to eat unclean animals, but also to touch the carcass causes uncleanness. Touching does not go as far as eating, but it already has a wrong effect. The uncleanness lasts until the evening. Cleansing of clothes must take place. We become unclean by what we see or hear, even without opening ourselves completely to it, without eating of it in a spiritual sense. Yet, even unconsciously, our behavior can be influenced by it. That is corrected by washing ourselves with the water of God’s Word (Ephesians 5:26), that is by reading God’s Word.

Leviticus 14:21

Swarming Thing That Are Unclean

The swarming things are animals that do not rise from the earth, but are identified with it. They are also forms of life that resemble the serpent, which is a picture of satan (Genesis 3:14). It represents feeling at home on earth. The book of Revelation speaks several times of “those who dwell on the earth” (Revelation 3:10; Revelation 6:10; Revelation 8:13; Revelation 11:10; Revelation 13:8; 14; Revelation 14:6; Revelation 17:8), meaning people who see the earth as their home, as their final abode. They feel at home there and do everything they can to keep it that way.

For us, eating such animals means being involved in earthly matters in a way that we pursue them, that we seek them. Paul warns: “Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth” (Colossians 3:2). Of those about whom he grieves that they walk as “enemies of the cross of Christ”, he must say: “Who set their minds on earthly things” (Philippians 3:18-19). We can become so immersed in our earthly activities that they become our life. Then we become equal to the people of the world. That striving makes us earth-dwellers, while we belong in heaven and confess to be citizens of heaven.

Lessons can be learned from each of these animals. Not that it is easy to know of every animal the lesson it teaches us, but they are not mentioned for nothing. The lesson of the mole (Leviticus 11:29) is clear. This animal lives underground, closed off from daylight. It teaches us that we should not do secret things that cannot bear the light of the day. That the mole is not on our spiritual menu, Paul says as follows: “But we have renounced the things hidden because of shame” (2 Corinthians 4:2) and elsewhere: “Do not participate in the unfruitful deeds of darkness, … for it is disgraceful even to speak of the things which are done by them in secret” (Ephesians 5:11-12).

An obvious lesson we also see in the chameleon (Leviticus 11:30). In our everyday language the animal is sometimes called in a saying and then we all know what kind of person it is to whom this saying applies: to behave like a chameleon. It is someone who can adapt to any situation and talk along with anyone, like the chameleon can change color to adapt to its environment. It is easy to recognize ourselves in it if we behave among believers as we should, while we, when we are in the world, adjust our behavior accordingly because we want to keep it as friend.

Leviticus 14:22

Swarming Thing That Are Unclean

The swarming things are animals that do not rise from the earth, but are identified with it. They are also forms of life that resemble the serpent, which is a picture of satan (Genesis 3:14). It represents feeling at home on earth. The book of Revelation speaks several times of “those who dwell on the earth” (Revelation 3:10; Revelation 6:10; Revelation 8:13; Revelation 11:10; Revelation 13:8; 14; Revelation 14:6; Revelation 17:8), meaning people who see the earth as their home, as their final abode. They feel at home there and do everything they can to keep it that way.

For us, eating such animals means being involved in earthly matters in a way that we pursue them, that we seek them. Paul warns: “Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth” (Colossians 3:2). Of those about whom he grieves that they walk as “enemies of the cross of Christ”, he must say: “Who set their minds on earthly things” (Philippians 3:18-19). We can become so immersed in our earthly activities that they become our life. Then we become equal to the people of the world. That striving makes us earth-dwellers, while we belong in heaven and confess to be citizens of heaven.

Lessons can be learned from each of these animals. Not that it is easy to know of every animal the lesson it teaches us, but they are not mentioned for nothing. The lesson of the mole (Leviticus 11:29) is clear. This animal lives underground, closed off from daylight. It teaches us that we should not do secret things that cannot bear the light of the day. That the mole is not on our spiritual menu, Paul says as follows: “But we have renounced the things hidden because of shame” (2 Corinthians 4:2) and elsewhere: “Do not participate in the unfruitful deeds of darkness, … for it is disgraceful even to speak of the things which are done by them in secret” (Ephesians 5:11-12).

An obvious lesson we also see in the chameleon (Leviticus 11:30). In our everyday language the animal is sometimes called in a saying and then we all know what kind of person it is to whom this saying applies: to behave like a chameleon. It is someone who can adapt to any situation and talk along with anyone, like the chameleon can change color to adapt to its environment. It is easy to recognize ourselves in it if we behave among believers as we should, while we, when we are in the world, adjust our behavior accordingly because we want to keep it as friend.

Leviticus 14:23

Swarming Thing That Are Unclean

The swarming things are animals that do not rise from the earth, but are identified with it. They are also forms of life that resemble the serpent, which is a picture of satan (Genesis 3:14). It represents feeling at home on earth. The book of Revelation speaks several times of “those who dwell on the earth” (Revelation 3:10; Revelation 6:10; Revelation 8:13; Revelation 11:10; Revelation 13:8; 14; Revelation 14:6; Revelation 17:8), meaning people who see the earth as their home, as their final abode. They feel at home there and do everything they can to keep it that way.

For us, eating such animals means being involved in earthly matters in a way that we pursue them, that we seek them. Paul warns: “Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth” (Colossians 3:2). Of those about whom he grieves that they walk as “enemies of the cross of Christ”, he must say: “Who set their minds on earthly things” (Philippians 3:18-19). We can become so immersed in our earthly activities that they become our life. Then we become equal to the people of the world. That striving makes us earth-dwellers, while we belong in heaven and confess to be citizens of heaven.

Lessons can be learned from each of these animals. Not that it is easy to know of every animal the lesson it teaches us, but they are not mentioned for nothing. The lesson of the mole (Leviticus 11:29) is clear. This animal lives underground, closed off from daylight. It teaches us that we should not do secret things that cannot bear the light of the day. That the mole is not on our spiritual menu, Paul says as follows: “But we have renounced the things hidden because of shame” (2 Corinthians 4:2) and elsewhere: “Do not participate in the unfruitful deeds of darkness, … for it is disgraceful even to speak of the things which are done by them in secret” (Ephesians 5:11-12).

An obvious lesson we also see in the chameleon (Leviticus 11:30). In our everyday language the animal is sometimes called in a saying and then we all know what kind of person it is to whom this saying applies: to behave like a chameleon. It is someone who can adapt to any situation and talk along with anyone, like the chameleon can change color to adapt to its environment. It is easy to recognize ourselves in it if we behave among believers as we should, while we, when we are in the world, adjust our behavior accordingly because we want to keep it as friend.

Leviticus 14:24

Touching a Dead Animal Makes Unclean

A “wooden article” – wood grows out of the earth – and an “earthen vessel” represent a person (Acts 9:15; 1 Thessalonians 4:4); “clothing” represents our behavior; “a skin, or a sack” is a means of storing something; “any article of which use is made” is all that is helpful to live life as a member of God’s people. If anything of it has become unclean by putting it in the service of earthly life and not in the service of God, it must be put in the water, that is, it must undergo the water bath of the Word. Then it becomes clean again and usable for the master. An earthen vessel must be broken. An earthen vessel is what we are by nature (2 Corinthians 4:7).

Water in which something unclean has come is unclean, and makes unclean what comes into contact with it (Leviticus 11:34-35). If God’s Word is deprived of its true meaning by our thoughts, if we give it our own explanation and pass it on, then also those who hear it become unclean.

Living water cannot become unclean (Leviticus 11:36). The Word of God, made alive by the power of the Spirit, transcends all uncleanness. If we are living sources, uncleanness will have no hold on us. “Rivers of living water” will flow from our “innermost being” (John 7:38) if we live in close fellowship with the Lord Jesus and feed ourselves with His flesh and drink of His blood (John 6:54-56).

In seed for sowing is also the power of life (Leviticus 11:37). This life reveals itself by dying. This is a picture of the Lord Jesus who died and thereby “brought life and immortality to light” (2 Timothy 1:10; cf. John 12:24). Life in Him overcomes death.

Leviticus 14:25

Touching a Dead Animal Makes Unclean

A “wooden article” – wood grows out of the earth – and an “earthen vessel” represent a person (Acts 9:15; 1 Thessalonians 4:4); “clothing” represents our behavior; “a skin, or a sack” is a means of storing something; “any article of which use is made” is all that is helpful to live life as a member of God’s people. If anything of it has become unclean by putting it in the service of earthly life and not in the service of God, it must be put in the water, that is, it must undergo the water bath of the Word. Then it becomes clean again and usable for the master. An earthen vessel must be broken. An earthen vessel is what we are by nature (2 Corinthians 4:7).

Water in which something unclean has come is unclean, and makes unclean what comes into contact with it (Leviticus 11:34-35). If God’s Word is deprived of its true meaning by our thoughts, if we give it our own explanation and pass it on, then also those who hear it become unclean.

Living water cannot become unclean (Leviticus 11:36). The Word of God, made alive by the power of the Spirit, transcends all uncleanness. If we are living sources, uncleanness will have no hold on us. “Rivers of living water” will flow from our “innermost being” (John 7:38) if we live in close fellowship with the Lord Jesus and feed ourselves with His flesh and drink of His blood (John 6:54-56).

In seed for sowing is also the power of life (Leviticus 11:37). This life reveals itself by dying. This is a picture of the Lord Jesus who died and thereby “brought life and immortality to light” (2 Timothy 1:10; cf. John 12:24). Life in Him overcomes death.

Leviticus 14:26

Touching a Dead Animal Makes Unclean

A “wooden article” – wood grows out of the earth – and an “earthen vessel” represent a person (Acts 9:15; 1 Thessalonians 4:4); “clothing” represents our behavior; “a skin, or a sack” is a means of storing something; “any article of which use is made” is all that is helpful to live life as a member of God’s people. If anything of it has become unclean by putting it in the service of earthly life and not in the service of God, it must be put in the water, that is, it must undergo the water bath of the Word. Then it becomes clean again and usable for the master. An earthen vessel must be broken. An earthen vessel is what we are by nature (2 Corinthians 4:7).

Water in which something unclean has come is unclean, and makes unclean what comes into contact with it (Leviticus 11:34-35). If God’s Word is deprived of its true meaning by our thoughts, if we give it our own explanation and pass it on, then also those who hear it become unclean.

Living water cannot become unclean (Leviticus 11:36). The Word of God, made alive by the power of the Spirit, transcends all uncleanness. If we are living sources, uncleanness will have no hold on us. “Rivers of living water” will flow from our “innermost being” (John 7:38) if we live in close fellowship with the Lord Jesus and feed ourselves with His flesh and drink of His blood (John 6:54-56).

In seed for sowing is also the power of life (Leviticus 11:37). This life reveals itself by dying. This is a picture of the Lord Jesus who died and thereby “brought life and immortality to light” (2 Timothy 1:10; cf. John 12:24). Life in Him overcomes death.

Leviticus 14:27

Touching a Dead Animal Makes Unclean

A “wooden article” – wood grows out of the earth – and an “earthen vessel” represent a person (Acts 9:15; 1 Thessalonians 4:4); “clothing” represents our behavior; “a skin, or a sack” is a means of storing something; “any article of which use is made” is all that is helpful to live life as a member of God’s people. If anything of it has become unclean by putting it in the service of earthly life and not in the service of God, it must be put in the water, that is, it must undergo the water bath of the Word. Then it becomes clean again and usable for the master. An earthen vessel must be broken. An earthen vessel is what we are by nature (2 Corinthians 4:7).

Water in which something unclean has come is unclean, and makes unclean what comes into contact with it (Leviticus 11:34-35). If God’s Word is deprived of its true meaning by our thoughts, if we give it our own explanation and pass it on, then also those who hear it become unclean.

Living water cannot become unclean (Leviticus 11:36). The Word of God, made alive by the power of the Spirit, transcends all uncleanness. If we are living sources, uncleanness will have no hold on us. “Rivers of living water” will flow from our “innermost being” (John 7:38) if we live in close fellowship with the Lord Jesus and feed ourselves with His flesh and drink of His blood (John 6:54-56).

In seed for sowing is also the power of life (Leviticus 11:37). This life reveals itself by dying. This is a picture of the Lord Jesus who died and thereby “brought life and immortality to light” (2 Timothy 1:10; cf. John 12:24). Life in Him overcomes death.

Leviticus 14:28

Touching a Dead Animal Makes Unclean

A “wooden article” – wood grows out of the earth – and an “earthen vessel” represent a person (Acts 9:15; 1 Thessalonians 4:4); “clothing” represents our behavior; “a skin, or a sack” is a means of storing something; “any article of which use is made” is all that is helpful to live life as a member of God’s people. If anything of it has become unclean by putting it in the service of earthly life and not in the service of God, it must be put in the water, that is, it must undergo the water bath of the Word. Then it becomes clean again and usable for the master. An earthen vessel must be broken. An earthen vessel is what we are by nature (2 Corinthians 4:7).

Water in which something unclean has come is unclean, and makes unclean what comes into contact with it (Leviticus 11:34-35). If God’s Word is deprived of its true meaning by our thoughts, if we give it our own explanation and pass it on, then also those who hear it become unclean.

Living water cannot become unclean (Leviticus 11:36). The Word of God, made alive by the power of the Spirit, transcends all uncleanness. If we are living sources, uncleanness will have no hold on us. “Rivers of living water” will flow from our “innermost being” (John 7:38) if we live in close fellowship with the Lord Jesus and feed ourselves with His flesh and drink of His blood (John 6:54-56).

In seed for sowing is also the power of life (Leviticus 11:37). This life reveals itself by dying. This is a picture of the Lord Jesus who died and thereby “brought life and immortality to light” (2 Timothy 1:10; cf. John 12:24). Life in Him overcomes death.

Leviticus 14:29

Touching a Dead Animal Makes Unclean

A “wooden article” – wood grows out of the earth – and an “earthen vessel” represent a person (Acts 9:15; 1 Thessalonians 4:4); “clothing” represents our behavior; “a skin, or a sack” is a means of storing something; “any article of which use is made” is all that is helpful to live life as a member of God’s people. If anything of it has become unclean by putting it in the service of earthly life and not in the service of God, it must be put in the water, that is, it must undergo the water bath of the Word. Then it becomes clean again and usable for the master. An earthen vessel must be broken. An earthen vessel is what we are by nature (2 Corinthians 4:7).

Water in which something unclean has come is unclean, and makes unclean what comes into contact with it (Leviticus 11:34-35). If God’s Word is deprived of its true meaning by our thoughts, if we give it our own explanation and pass it on, then also those who hear it become unclean.

Living water cannot become unclean (Leviticus 11:36). The Word of God, made alive by the power of the Spirit, transcends all uncleanness. If we are living sources, uncleanness will have no hold on us. “Rivers of living water” will flow from our “innermost being” (John 7:38) if we live in close fellowship with the Lord Jesus and feed ourselves with His flesh and drink of His blood (John 6:54-56).

In seed for sowing is also the power of life (Leviticus 11:37). This life reveals itself by dying. This is a picture of the Lord Jesus who died and thereby “brought life and immortality to light” (2 Timothy 1:10; cf. John 12:24). Life in Him overcomes death.

Leviticus 14:30

Touching a Dead Animal Makes Unclean

A “wooden article” – wood grows out of the earth – and an “earthen vessel” represent a person (Acts 9:15; 1 Thessalonians 4:4); “clothing” represents our behavior; “a skin, or a sack” is a means of storing something; “any article of which use is made” is all that is helpful to live life as a member of God’s people. If anything of it has become unclean by putting it in the service of earthly life and not in the service of God, it must be put in the water, that is, it must undergo the water bath of the Word. Then it becomes clean again and usable for the master. An earthen vessel must be broken. An earthen vessel is what we are by nature (2 Corinthians 4:7).

Water in which something unclean has come is unclean, and makes unclean what comes into contact with it (Leviticus 11:34-35). If God’s Word is deprived of its true meaning by our thoughts, if we give it our own explanation and pass it on, then also those who hear it become unclean.

Living water cannot become unclean (Leviticus 11:36). The Word of God, made alive by the power of the Spirit, transcends all uncleanness. If we are living sources, uncleanness will have no hold on us. “Rivers of living water” will flow from our “innermost being” (John 7:38) if we live in close fellowship with the Lord Jesus and feed ourselves with His flesh and drink of His blood (John 6:54-56).

In seed for sowing is also the power of life (Leviticus 11:37). This life reveals itself by dying. This is a picture of the Lord Jesus who died and thereby “brought life and immortality to light” (2 Timothy 1:10; cf. John 12:24). Life in Him overcomes death.

Leviticus 14:31

Touching a Dead Animal Makes Unclean

A “wooden article” – wood grows out of the earth – and an “earthen vessel” represent a person (Acts 9:15; 1 Thessalonians 4:4); “clothing” represents our behavior; “a skin, or a sack” is a means of storing something; “any article of which use is made” is all that is helpful to live life as a member of God’s people. If anything of it has become unclean by putting it in the service of earthly life and not in the service of God, it must be put in the water, that is, it must undergo the water bath of the Word. Then it becomes clean again and usable for the master. An earthen vessel must be broken. An earthen vessel is what we are by nature (2 Corinthians 4:7).

Water in which something unclean has come is unclean, and makes unclean what comes into contact with it (Leviticus 11:34-35). If God’s Word is deprived of its true meaning by our thoughts, if we give it our own explanation and pass it on, then also those who hear it become unclean.

Living water cannot become unclean (Leviticus 11:36). The Word of God, made alive by the power of the Spirit, transcends all uncleanness. If we are living sources, uncleanness will have no hold on us. “Rivers of living water” will flow from our “innermost being” (John 7:38) if we live in close fellowship with the Lord Jesus and feed ourselves with His flesh and drink of His blood (John 6:54-56).

In seed for sowing is also the power of life (Leviticus 11:37). This life reveals itself by dying. This is a picture of the Lord Jesus who died and thereby “brought life and immortality to light” (2 Timothy 1:10; cf. John 12:24). Life in Him overcomes death.

Leviticus 14:32

Touching a Dead Animal Makes Unclean

A “wooden article” – wood grows out of the earth – and an “earthen vessel” represent a person (Acts 9:15; 1 Thessalonians 4:4); “clothing” represents our behavior; “a skin, or a sack” is a means of storing something; “any article of which use is made” is all that is helpful to live life as a member of God’s people. If anything of it has become unclean by putting it in the service of earthly life and not in the service of God, it must be put in the water, that is, it must undergo the water bath of the Word. Then it becomes clean again and usable for the master. An earthen vessel must be broken. An earthen vessel is what we are by nature (2 Corinthians 4:7).

Water in which something unclean has come is unclean, and makes unclean what comes into contact with it (Leviticus 11:34-35). If God’s Word is deprived of its true meaning by our thoughts, if we give it our own explanation and pass it on, then also those who hear it become unclean.

Living water cannot become unclean (Leviticus 11:36). The Word of God, made alive by the power of the Spirit, transcends all uncleanness. If we are living sources, uncleanness will have no hold on us. “Rivers of living water” will flow from our “innermost being” (John 7:38) if we live in close fellowship with the Lord Jesus and feed ourselves with His flesh and drink of His blood (John 6:54-56).

In seed for sowing is also the power of life (Leviticus 11:37). This life reveals itself by dying. This is a picture of the Lord Jesus who died and thereby “brought life and immortality to light” (2 Timothy 1:10; cf. John 12:24). Life in Him overcomes death.

Leviticus 14:33

Swarming Things Are Detestable

All crawling animals shall not be eaten. In these verses not only does the prohibition sound, but also the LORD lets us hear His disgust about it several times. These animals are “detestable” (Leviticus 11:41-42). He then says strongly that one who takes one of these animals, renders himself “detestable” (Leviticus 11:43). This shows how much we get the characteristics of the food we eat. In the swarming animals we see not only a picture of earthly things, but also of the motives behind them. It represents the low instincts of man fallen into sin under the influence of the devil.

Leviticus 14:34

Swarming Things Are Detestable

All crawling animals shall not be eaten. In these verses not only does the prohibition sound, but also the LORD lets us hear His disgust about it several times. These animals are “detestable” (Leviticus 11:41-42). He then says strongly that one who takes one of these animals, renders himself “detestable” (Leviticus 11:43). This shows how much we get the characteristics of the food we eat. In the swarming animals we see not only a picture of earthly things, but also of the motives behind them. It represents the low instincts of man fallen into sin under the influence of the devil.

Leviticus 14:35

Swarming Things Are Detestable

All crawling animals shall not be eaten. In these verses not only does the prohibition sound, but also the LORD lets us hear His disgust about it several times. These animals are “detestable” (Leviticus 11:41-42). He then says strongly that one who takes one of these animals, renders himself “detestable” (Leviticus 11:43). This shows how much we get the characteristics of the food we eat. In the swarming animals we see not only a picture of earthly things, but also of the motives behind them. It represents the low instincts of man fallen into sin under the influence of the devil.

Leviticus 14:36

Reason for Ban on Eating Swarming Animals

The reason for these laws is given here. The spiritual lessons that it contains for us must be linked to the fact that we are children of God. Because He is holy, we must be holy too (1 Peter 1:15-16). It is a heavenly holiness, which can be perfectly seen in the Lord Jesus on earth. This should make us realize that we have a responsibility to see what we eat as spiritual food, because what we eat determines how we express ourselves. We will have to ask ourselves what we ‘eat’: Will this make us look more like the Lord Jesus or will we look more like the world?

Leviticus 14:37

Reason for Ban on Eating Swarming Animals

The reason for these laws is given here. The spiritual lessons that it contains for us must be linked to the fact that we are children of God. Because He is holy, we must be holy too (1 Peter 1:15-16). It is a heavenly holiness, which can be perfectly seen in the Lord Jesus on earth. This should make us realize that we have a responsibility to see what we eat as spiritual food, because what we eat determines how we express ourselves. We will have to ask ourselves what we ‘eat’: Will this make us look more like the Lord Jesus or will we look more like the world?

Leviticus 14:38

Purpose of the Eating Commandments

The laws indicate the law of nature that our behavior, our actions and our speaking, is formed by what we eat. God determines what is the food that enables us to distinguish between clean and unclean. We have to keep in mind that what we take to us and thus give the opportunity to sink in, influences our behavior in the world and toward our fellow believers.

Unclean food comes within our reach in the form of certain reading material that enters our homes or all kinds of programs that we can listen to or watch. Taking it in forms or deforms our behavior as believers. If we are not fussy with what we allow to influence our mind, then in our practice the separation between clean and unclean will not be clearly present. We then shift in our behavior unnoticed – at least for ourselves unnoticed, but others do perceive it – increasingly toward the world.

Leviticus 14:39

Purpose of the Eating Commandments

The laws indicate the law of nature that our behavior, our actions and our speaking, is formed by what we eat. God determines what is the food that enables us to distinguish between clean and unclean. We have to keep in mind that what we take to us and thus give the opportunity to sink in, influences our behavior in the world and toward our fellow believers.

Unclean food comes within our reach in the form of certain reading material that enters our homes or all kinds of programs that we can listen to or watch. Taking it in forms or deforms our behavior as believers. If we are not fussy with what we allow to influence our mind, then in our practice the separation between clean and unclean will not be clearly present. We then shift in our behavior unnoticed – at least for ourselves unnoticed, but others do perceive it – increasingly toward the world.

Leviticus 14:41

Introduction

Leviticus 11 is about defilement by something that man takes from the outside. In Leviticus 12 it is about the problem that man is unclean in himself. Here we have the uncleanness of human nature or the uncleanness of the indwelling sin. Man is unclean by birth and unclean because he can only bring unclean children into the world. In Leviticus 13 we also see this uncleanness break out in the different forms of leprosy.

Unclean By Giving Birth

In Leviticus 11 one who touches something unclean is unclean until the evening. Here, in Leviticus 12, when a child is given birth, the period of uncleanness and purification is the longest we find in Scripture. For the mother, this period covers for the birth of a boy forty days and for the birth of a girl eighty days. This indicates the seriousness of the problem.

This is not about the uncleanness and purification of the child, but of the mother. This is also expressed by David in Psalms 51 (Psalms 51:7; cf. Job 14:4; Job 25:4). The children are unclean because they are born from sinful parents. The source is not good. Everything that comes forth from man is unclean (Matthew 15:18). The only exception is the Lord Jesus. He is the clean One Who is born out of an unclean one.

The time that the woman is unclean is seven days for a boy and fourteen days for a girl. After those days follows a time of purification: in the case of a boy thirty-three days and in the case of a girl sixty-six days. After the days of her purification, she has to bring an offering.

In the circumcision of the boy, it is acknowledged – spiritually seen – that the child is unclean. Circumcision speaks of the death of Christ (Colossians 2:11). The child is brought on the basis of the death of Christ.

As long as the days of the mother’s purification last, she should not go to the holy place. When those days are over, she must bring the offerings at the doorway of the tent of meeting. This we can apply to receiving at the Lord’s Table. A person can only be received when the days of his purification are over, in which he has learned to know himself and has also accepted for himself the value of the work of the Lord Jesus.

The fact that the period of uncleanness and purification in the case of a girl lasts twice as long can perhaps be explained as follows. It is a reminder of the fact that sin came into the world through the woman (Genesis 3:6; 1 Timothy 2:14).

A spiritual application is this one. The female speaks of the emotions, the feelings, the subjective. Here there is no talk of being circumcised. With those who rely on their feelings it often takes longer to accept what Christ has done. This can be seen in many Christians who feel too bad or not bad enough to be accepted by God. Sometimes such Christians find peace with God only on their deathbed and then they see something of the meaning of the burnt offering and sin offering.

Leviticus 14:42

Introduction

Leviticus 11 is about defilement by something that man takes from the outside. In Leviticus 12 it is about the problem that man is unclean in himself. Here we have the uncleanness of human nature or the uncleanness of the indwelling sin. Man is unclean by birth and unclean because he can only bring unclean children into the world. In Leviticus 13 we also see this uncleanness break out in the different forms of leprosy.

Unclean By Giving Birth

In Leviticus 11 one who touches something unclean is unclean until the evening. Here, in Leviticus 12, when a child is given birth, the period of uncleanness and purification is the longest we find in Scripture. For the mother, this period covers for the birth of a boy forty days and for the birth of a girl eighty days. This indicates the seriousness of the problem.

This is not about the uncleanness and purification of the child, but of the mother. This is also expressed by David in Psalms 51 (Psalms 51:7; cf. Job 14:4; Job 25:4). The children are unclean because they are born from sinful parents. The source is not good. Everything that comes forth from man is unclean (Matthew 15:18). The only exception is the Lord Jesus. He is the clean One Who is born out of an unclean one.

The time that the woman is unclean is seven days for a boy and fourteen days for a girl. After those days follows a time of purification: in the case of a boy thirty-three days and in the case of a girl sixty-six days. After the days of her purification, she has to bring an offering.

In the circumcision of the boy, it is acknowledged – spiritually seen – that the child is unclean. Circumcision speaks of the death of Christ (Colossians 2:11). The child is brought on the basis of the death of Christ.

As long as the days of the mother’s purification last, she should not go to the holy place. When those days are over, she must bring the offerings at the doorway of the tent of meeting. This we can apply to receiving at the Lord’s Table. A person can only be received when the days of his purification are over, in which he has learned to know himself and has also accepted for himself the value of the work of the Lord Jesus.

The fact that the period of uncleanness and purification in the case of a girl lasts twice as long can perhaps be explained as follows. It is a reminder of the fact that sin came into the world through the woman (Genesis 3:6; 1 Timothy 2:14).

A spiritual application is this one. The female speaks of the emotions, the feelings, the subjective. Here there is no talk of being circumcised. With those who rely on their feelings it often takes longer to accept what Christ has done. This can be seen in many Christians who feel too bad or not bad enough to be accepted by God. Sometimes such Christians find peace with God only on their deathbed and then they see something of the meaning of the burnt offering and sin offering.

Leviticus 14:43

Introduction

Leviticus 11 is about defilement by something that man takes from the outside. In Leviticus 12 it is about the problem that man is unclean in himself. Here we have the uncleanness of human nature or the uncleanness of the indwelling sin. Man is unclean by birth and unclean because he can only bring unclean children into the world. In Leviticus 13 we also see this uncleanness break out in the different forms of leprosy.

Unclean By Giving Birth

In Leviticus 11 one who touches something unclean is unclean until the evening. Here, in Leviticus 12, when a child is given birth, the period of uncleanness and purification is the longest we find in Scripture. For the mother, this period covers for the birth of a boy forty days and for the birth of a girl eighty days. This indicates the seriousness of the problem.

This is not about the uncleanness and purification of the child, but of the mother. This is also expressed by David in Psalms 51 (Psalms 51:7; cf. Job 14:4; Job 25:4). The children are unclean because they are born from sinful parents. The source is not good. Everything that comes forth from man is unclean (Matthew 15:18). The only exception is the Lord Jesus. He is the clean One Who is born out of an unclean one.

The time that the woman is unclean is seven days for a boy and fourteen days for a girl. After those days follows a time of purification: in the case of a boy thirty-three days and in the case of a girl sixty-six days. After the days of her purification, she has to bring an offering.

In the circumcision of the boy, it is acknowledged – spiritually seen – that the child is unclean. Circumcision speaks of the death of Christ (Colossians 2:11). The child is brought on the basis of the death of Christ.

As long as the days of the mother’s purification last, she should not go to the holy place. When those days are over, she must bring the offerings at the doorway of the tent of meeting. This we can apply to receiving at the Lord’s Table. A person can only be received when the days of his purification are over, in which he has learned to know himself and has also accepted for himself the value of the work of the Lord Jesus.

The fact that the period of uncleanness and purification in the case of a girl lasts twice as long can perhaps be explained as follows. It is a reminder of the fact that sin came into the world through the woman (Genesis 3:6; 1 Timothy 2:14).

A spiritual application is this one. The female speaks of the emotions, the feelings, the subjective. Here there is no talk of being circumcised. With those who rely on their feelings it often takes longer to accept what Christ has done. This can be seen in many Christians who feel too bad or not bad enough to be accepted by God. Sometimes such Christians find peace with God only on their deathbed and then they see something of the meaning of the burnt offering and sin offering.

Leviticus 14:44

Introduction

Leviticus 11 is about defilement by something that man takes from the outside. In Leviticus 12 it is about the problem that man is unclean in himself. Here we have the uncleanness of human nature or the uncleanness of the indwelling sin. Man is unclean by birth and unclean because he can only bring unclean children into the world. In Leviticus 13 we also see this uncleanness break out in the different forms of leprosy.

Unclean By Giving Birth

In Leviticus 11 one who touches something unclean is unclean until the evening. Here, in Leviticus 12, when a child is given birth, the period of uncleanness and purification is the longest we find in Scripture. For the mother, this period covers for the birth of a boy forty days and for the birth of a girl eighty days. This indicates the seriousness of the problem.

This is not about the uncleanness and purification of the child, but of the mother. This is also expressed by David in Psalms 51 (Psalms 51:7; cf. Job 14:4; Job 25:4). The children are unclean because they are born from sinful parents. The source is not good. Everything that comes forth from man is unclean (Matthew 15:18). The only exception is the Lord Jesus. He is the clean One Who is born out of an unclean one.

The time that the woman is unclean is seven days for a boy and fourteen days for a girl. After those days follows a time of purification: in the case of a boy thirty-three days and in the case of a girl sixty-six days. After the days of her purification, she has to bring an offering.

In the circumcision of the boy, it is acknowledged – spiritually seen – that the child is unclean. Circumcision speaks of the death of Christ (Colossians 2:11). The child is brought on the basis of the death of Christ.

As long as the days of the mother’s purification last, she should not go to the holy place. When those days are over, she must bring the offerings at the doorway of the tent of meeting. This we can apply to receiving at the Lord’s Table. A person can only be received when the days of his purification are over, in which he has learned to know himself and has also accepted for himself the value of the work of the Lord Jesus.

The fact that the period of uncleanness and purification in the case of a girl lasts twice as long can perhaps be explained as follows. It is a reminder of the fact that sin came into the world through the woman (Genesis 3:6; 1 Timothy 2:14).

A spiritual application is this one. The female speaks of the emotions, the feelings, the subjective. Here there is no talk of being circumcised. With those who rely on their feelings it often takes longer to accept what Christ has done. This can be seen in many Christians who feel too bad or not bad enough to be accepted by God. Sometimes such Christians find peace with God only on their deathbed and then they see something of the meaning of the burnt offering and sin offering.

Leviticus 14:45

Introduction

Leviticus 11 is about defilement by something that man takes from the outside. In Leviticus 12 it is about the problem that man is unclean in himself. Here we have the uncleanness of human nature or the uncleanness of the indwelling sin. Man is unclean by birth and unclean because he can only bring unclean children into the world. In Leviticus 13 we also see this uncleanness break out in the different forms of leprosy.

Unclean By Giving Birth

In Leviticus 11 one who touches something unclean is unclean until the evening. Here, in Leviticus 12, when a child is given birth, the period of uncleanness and purification is the longest we find in Scripture. For the mother, this period covers for the birth of a boy forty days and for the birth of a girl eighty days. This indicates the seriousness of the problem.

This is not about the uncleanness and purification of the child, but of the mother. This is also expressed by David in Psalms 51 (Psalms 51:7; cf. Job 14:4; Job 25:4). The children are unclean because they are born from sinful parents. The source is not good. Everything that comes forth from man is unclean (Matthew 15:18). The only exception is the Lord Jesus. He is the clean One Who is born out of an unclean one.

The time that the woman is unclean is seven days for a boy and fourteen days for a girl. After those days follows a time of purification: in the case of a boy thirty-three days and in the case of a girl sixty-six days. After the days of her purification, she has to bring an offering.

In the circumcision of the boy, it is acknowledged – spiritually seen – that the child is unclean. Circumcision speaks of the death of Christ (Colossians 2:11). The child is brought on the basis of the death of Christ.

As long as the days of the mother’s purification last, she should not go to the holy place. When those days are over, she must bring the offerings at the doorway of the tent of meeting. This we can apply to receiving at the Lord’s Table. A person can only be received when the days of his purification are over, in which he has learned to know himself and has also accepted for himself the value of the work of the Lord Jesus.

The fact that the period of uncleanness and purification in the case of a girl lasts twice as long can perhaps be explained as follows. It is a reminder of the fact that sin came into the world through the woman (Genesis 3:6; 1 Timothy 2:14).

A spiritual application is this one. The female speaks of the emotions, the feelings, the subjective. Here there is no talk of being circumcised. With those who rely on their feelings it often takes longer to accept what Christ has done. This can be seen in many Christians who feel too bad or not bad enough to be accepted by God. Sometimes such Christians find peace with God only on their deathbed and then they see something of the meaning of the burnt offering and sin offering.

Leviticus 14:46

Cleansed After Giving Birth

After the forty or eighty days, the mother must also place herself on the basis of the offering, in the picture the offering of Christ. She must bring a burnt offering and a sin offering. When Mary has given birth to the Lord Jesus, she also offers this offering, because she too is unclean of herself (Luke 2:21-24). That she does not bring the ordinary offering, a lamb and a dove (Leviticus 12:6), but two pigeons, thus the offering of the poor (Leviticus 12:8), indicates the poverty of the parents of the Lord Jesus. Mary is the only exception as regards the Child she gave birth to. The Child Jesus was the perfectly clean One. He indeed is not conceived by a sinful man – and therefore has not original sin – but by God the Holy Spirit (Luke 1:35).

In the woman we also can see a picture of Israel, a people who are unclean, and out of whom the Messiah was born, the clean One. In Revelation 12 we see that picture too (Revelation 12:1-6). The woman there represents Israel; the male Son is the Lord Jesus.

The days of the cleansing of the people begin after ‘circumcision’, that is, after what happened to the Lord Jesus on the cross. Only now, in the period after the cross, can those who come to repentance see what they have all done and been and are still naturally. It often takes quite a while to see that. This applies both to Israel and to the individual believer of the church. The more I get to know myself, the more I abhor myself.

The result of this purifying period is that we really place ourselves on the basis of the burnt offering and the sin offering. Only then are we also able to understand something of the value of the Lord Jesus’ work for God and that God looks at us in Him (burnt offering). The burnt offering comes first and therefore has the emphasis. It is only then that we are able to understand something of the meaning of the sin offering, that we are a little more aware of it.

Leviticus 14:47

Cleansed After Giving Birth

After the forty or eighty days, the mother must also place herself on the basis of the offering, in the picture the offering of Christ. She must bring a burnt offering and a sin offering. When Mary has given birth to the Lord Jesus, she also offers this offering, because she too is unclean of herself (Luke 2:21-24). That she does not bring the ordinary offering, a lamb and a dove (Leviticus 12:6), but two pigeons, thus the offering of the poor (Leviticus 12:8), indicates the poverty of the parents of the Lord Jesus. Mary is the only exception as regards the Child she gave birth to. The Child Jesus was the perfectly clean One. He indeed is not conceived by a sinful man – and therefore has not original sin – but by God the Holy Spirit (Luke 1:35).

In the woman we also can see a picture of Israel, a people who are unclean, and out of whom the Messiah was born, the clean One. In Revelation 12 we see that picture too (Revelation 12:1-6). The woman there represents Israel; the male Son is the Lord Jesus.

The days of the cleansing of the people begin after ‘circumcision’, that is, after what happened to the Lord Jesus on the cross. Only now, in the period after the cross, can those who come to repentance see what they have all done and been and are still naturally. It often takes quite a while to see that. This applies both to Israel and to the individual believer of the church. The more I get to know myself, the more I abhor myself.

The result of this purifying period is that we really place ourselves on the basis of the burnt offering and the sin offering. Only then are we also able to understand something of the value of the Lord Jesus’ work for God and that God looks at us in Him (burnt offering). The burnt offering comes first and therefore has the emphasis. It is only then that we are able to understand something of the meaning of the sin offering, that we are a little more aware of it.

Leviticus 14:48

Cleansed After Giving Birth

After the forty or eighty days, the mother must also place herself on the basis of the offering, in the picture the offering of Christ. She must bring a burnt offering and a sin offering. When Mary has given birth to the Lord Jesus, she also offers this offering, because she too is unclean of herself (Luke 2:21-24). That she does not bring the ordinary offering, a lamb and a dove (Leviticus 12:6), but two pigeons, thus the offering of the poor (Leviticus 12:8), indicates the poverty of the parents of the Lord Jesus. Mary is the only exception as regards the Child she gave birth to. The Child Jesus was the perfectly clean One. He indeed is not conceived by a sinful man – and therefore has not original sin – but by God the Holy Spirit (Luke 1:35).

In the woman we also can see a picture of Israel, a people who are unclean, and out of whom the Messiah was born, the clean One. In Revelation 12 we see that picture too (Revelation 12:1-6). The woman there represents Israel; the male Son is the Lord Jesus.

The days of the cleansing of the people begin after ‘circumcision’, that is, after what happened to the Lord Jesus on the cross. Only now, in the period after the cross, can those who come to repentance see what they have all done and been and are still naturally. It often takes quite a while to see that. This applies both to Israel and to the individual believer of the church. The more I get to know myself, the more I abhor myself.

The result of this purifying period is that we really place ourselves on the basis of the burnt offering and the sin offering. Only then are we also able to understand something of the value of the Lord Jesus’ work for God and that God looks at us in Him (burnt offering). The burnt offering comes first and therefore has the emphasis. It is only then that we are able to understand something of the meaning of the sin offering, that we are a little more aware of it.

Leviticus 14:50

Introduction

The more we have learned what Leviticus 12 wants to say to us, the more we will be preserved for what we find in this chapter.

This chapter is about the outbreak or a possible outbreak of leprosy in a member of God’s people. Leprosy is a picture of the outbreak of sin, which also makes unclean everyone who comes into contact with it. Leprosy is also used by God as a punishment for sin with Miriam, Gehazi and Uzziah (Numbers 12:5-10; 2 Kings 5:20-27; 2 Chronicles 26:16-21). It is a disease that starts small and spreads slowly over the body, until the whole body is sick. It is an incurable disease that only God can cure (2 Kings 5:7). The appearance is distorted by it, the leper gets a repulsive appearance.

The leper in this and the next chapter is not a picture of the sinner who lives in the world without God. These chapters are about a member of the people of God. With someone who has been hiding behind the blood of the lamb, leprosy can occur. It is the picture of sin that breaks out in a believer. It is something that is small, but gets bigger and bigger, until sin breaks out in all its intensity. Such a person must be excluded. It is humbling that this is such a long chapter. It proves how much we need this ‘treatment of evil’.

Many different facets in which sin can manifest itself are brought to our attention. It must therefore bring us to self-judgment. If in practice we are priests – in principle every believer is, but not every believer lives as such – then we must first apply these things to ourselves and then also to others. That is not only to condemn sin, but also to help the sinner, and especially to keep God’s dwelling place clean.

Suspicion of Leprosy

The LORD speaks to Moses and Aaron about this important matter: outbreak of leprosy in a member of his people. This leprosy can present itself in different ways. Its symptoms appear on the skin. A swelling may appear. In the spiritual application a swelling is what puffs up, arrogance. A severe form of being puffed-up is, for example, that of the arrogance of having knowledge of God’s Word (1 Corinthians 8:1).

A scab may also appear. A scab or an ulcer is an ostentatious wound. We can apply this, for example, to injustice that has been done to us and that we still cannot forgive. It keeps on festering in us and when we are reminded of the person or the act, the anger in us flares up. Not being able to forgive can become a lack of the mind of forgivingness over time. A root of bitterness then springs up that defiles both the person himself and others (Hebrews 12:15).

The third symptom that may indicate leprosy is a bright spot. We can apply this to, for example, enjoying sin (Hebrews 11:25). It is sin that has a certain attraction, but always deceives us (Hebrews 3:13).

Whoever is suspected of leprosy must be brought to the priest. The decisive factor is not what the leper thinks of it, but the judgment of the priest. When you are suspected of leprosy, it is not right to talk about ‘a triviality to which you should pay no further attention’. Someone who is sincere will want to cooperate in the investigation. The priest is the Lord Jesus. He is never mistaken. The point is not whether someone feels leprous, but whether he is.

Not every sin that a believer does is leprosy. Sometimes a sin indicates it, but after investigation it may appear that it is not. Someone who says or does something in drift, sins. If this is of short duration, there is no state of leprosy. However, if someone persists in his attitude, if it turns out that the evil is deeper than just a temper, there is talk of leprosy. Leprosy does not primarily indicate what someone has done, but what someone is. Sin breaks out because of the indwelling sin. Leprosy indicates the source, the cause, not the act.

The investigation must be done by the priest, by someone who is used to being in the presence of God. He knows God’s thoughts and knows how to apply them correctly, both to himself and to others. A priest in practice is a spiritual brother or sister, to whom the first verse of Galatians 6 applies (Galatians 6:1).

The investigation is to help the (possible) leper. In case he is not leprous, it is a great sin to remove him from the camp. No haste is needed. If it is not immediately clear that it is leprosy, a person suspected of leprosy must be isolated for seven days. Seven days of investigation speaks of a complete period.

The case where someone has a bright spot is discussed in more detail. The proof that it is leprosy is provided when the hair on that white spot has also turned white. It is not only a white spot, but what emerges from it has the same appearance. White hair is not a deterrent. Sin does not always scare off; it can even seem attractive. Nevertheless, there is talk of leprosy and such a person must be pronounced unclean. The hair has turned white when, for example, someone insists, contrary to the Scriptures, that the forsaking of meetings of the church is a free choice (Hebrews 10:25).

Before there is talk of white hair, there may first be a bright spot. Such a bright spot is for example when we notice that someone prays less and reads less in the Bible and visits the meetings less. It seems to indicate that fellowship with the Lord is no longer so important. Priestly investigation must show whether this is due to sin in life or whether there are other causes, such as illness, weakness, disappointment.

The investigation into the cause takes place in all rest: twice seven days. If there is no clarity, we have to wait, each time for a complete period. It really must be proven, earlier there will be no pronouncement or otherwise acquittal. We must wait until the Lord makes the matter clear. The Lord Jesus points to this rest in the investigation when He indicates how to deal with a brother who is sinning (Matthew 18:15-17).

Leviticus 14:51

Introduction

The more we have learned what Leviticus 12 wants to say to us, the more we will be preserved for what we find in this chapter.

This chapter is about the outbreak or a possible outbreak of leprosy in a member of God’s people. Leprosy is a picture of the outbreak of sin, which also makes unclean everyone who comes into contact with it. Leprosy is also used by God as a punishment for sin with Miriam, Gehazi and Uzziah (Numbers 12:5-10; 2 Kings 5:20-27; 2 Chronicles 26:16-21). It is a disease that starts small and spreads slowly over the body, until the whole body is sick. It is an incurable disease that only God can cure (2 Kings 5:7). The appearance is distorted by it, the leper gets a repulsive appearance.

The leper in this and the next chapter is not a picture of the sinner who lives in the world without God. These chapters are about a member of the people of God. With someone who has been hiding behind the blood of the lamb, leprosy can occur. It is the picture of sin that breaks out in a believer. It is something that is small, but gets bigger and bigger, until sin breaks out in all its intensity. Such a person must be excluded. It is humbling that this is such a long chapter. It proves how much we need this ‘treatment of evil’.

Many different facets in which sin can manifest itself are brought to our attention. It must therefore bring us to self-judgment. If in practice we are priests – in principle every believer is, but not every believer lives as such – then we must first apply these things to ourselves and then also to others. That is not only to condemn sin, but also to help the sinner, and especially to keep God’s dwelling place clean.

Suspicion of Leprosy

The LORD speaks to Moses and Aaron about this important matter: outbreak of leprosy in a member of his people. This leprosy can present itself in different ways. Its symptoms appear on the skin. A swelling may appear. In the spiritual application a swelling is what puffs up, arrogance. A severe form of being puffed-up is, for example, that of the arrogance of having knowledge of God’s Word (1 Corinthians 8:1).

A scab may also appear. A scab or an ulcer is an ostentatious wound. We can apply this, for example, to injustice that has been done to us and that we still cannot forgive. It keeps on festering in us and when we are reminded of the person or the act, the anger in us flares up. Not being able to forgive can become a lack of the mind of forgivingness over time. A root of bitterness then springs up that defiles both the person himself and others (Hebrews 12:15).

The third symptom that may indicate leprosy is a bright spot. We can apply this to, for example, enjoying sin (Hebrews 11:25). It is sin that has a certain attraction, but always deceives us (Hebrews 3:13).

Whoever is suspected of leprosy must be brought to the priest. The decisive factor is not what the leper thinks of it, but the judgment of the priest. When you are suspected of leprosy, it is not right to talk about ‘a triviality to which you should pay no further attention’. Someone who is sincere will want to cooperate in the investigation. The priest is the Lord Jesus. He is never mistaken. The point is not whether someone feels leprous, but whether he is.

Not every sin that a believer does is leprosy. Sometimes a sin indicates it, but after investigation it may appear that it is not. Someone who says or does something in drift, sins. If this is of short duration, there is no state of leprosy. However, if someone persists in his attitude, if it turns out that the evil is deeper than just a temper, there is talk of leprosy. Leprosy does not primarily indicate what someone has done, but what someone is. Sin breaks out because of the indwelling sin. Leprosy indicates the source, the cause, not the act.

The investigation must be done by the priest, by someone who is used to being in the presence of God. He knows God’s thoughts and knows how to apply them correctly, both to himself and to others. A priest in practice is a spiritual brother or sister, to whom the first verse of Galatians 6 applies (Galatians 6:1).

The investigation is to help the (possible) leper. In case he is not leprous, it is a great sin to remove him from the camp. No haste is needed. If it is not immediately clear that it is leprosy, a person suspected of leprosy must be isolated for seven days. Seven days of investigation speaks of a complete period.

The case where someone has a bright spot is discussed in more detail. The proof that it is leprosy is provided when the hair on that white spot has also turned white. It is not only a white spot, but what emerges from it has the same appearance. White hair is not a deterrent. Sin does not always scare off; it can even seem attractive. Nevertheless, there is talk of leprosy and such a person must be pronounced unclean. The hair has turned white when, for example, someone insists, contrary to the Scriptures, that the forsaking of meetings of the church is a free choice (Hebrews 10:25).

Before there is talk of white hair, there may first be a bright spot. Such a bright spot is for example when we notice that someone prays less and reads less in the Bible and visits the meetings less. It seems to indicate that fellowship with the Lord is no longer so important. Priestly investigation must show whether this is due to sin in life or whether there are other causes, such as illness, weakness, disappointment.

The investigation into the cause takes place in all rest: twice seven days. If there is no clarity, we have to wait, each time for a complete period. It really must be proven, earlier there will be no pronouncement or otherwise acquittal. We must wait until the Lord makes the matter clear. The Lord Jesus points to this rest in the investigation when He indicates how to deal with a brother who is sinning (Matthew 18:15-17).

Leviticus 14:52

Introduction

The more we have learned what Leviticus 12 wants to say to us, the more we will be preserved for what we find in this chapter.

This chapter is about the outbreak or a possible outbreak of leprosy in a member of God’s people. Leprosy is a picture of the outbreak of sin, which also makes unclean everyone who comes into contact with it. Leprosy is also used by God as a punishment for sin with Miriam, Gehazi and Uzziah (Numbers 12:5-10; 2 Kings 5:20-27; 2 Chronicles 26:16-21). It is a disease that starts small and spreads slowly over the body, until the whole body is sick. It is an incurable disease that only God can cure (2 Kings 5:7). The appearance is distorted by it, the leper gets a repulsive appearance.

The leper in this and the next chapter is not a picture of the sinner who lives in the world without God. These chapters are about a member of the people of God. With someone who has been hiding behind the blood of the lamb, leprosy can occur. It is the picture of sin that breaks out in a believer. It is something that is small, but gets bigger and bigger, until sin breaks out in all its intensity. Such a person must be excluded. It is humbling that this is such a long chapter. It proves how much we need this ‘treatment of evil’.

Many different facets in which sin can manifest itself are brought to our attention. It must therefore bring us to self-judgment. If in practice we are priests – in principle every believer is, but not every believer lives as such – then we must first apply these things to ourselves and then also to others. That is not only to condemn sin, but also to help the sinner, and especially to keep God’s dwelling place clean.

Suspicion of Leprosy

The LORD speaks to Moses and Aaron about this important matter: outbreak of leprosy in a member of his people. This leprosy can present itself in different ways. Its symptoms appear on the skin. A swelling may appear. In the spiritual application a swelling is what puffs up, arrogance. A severe form of being puffed-up is, for example, that of the arrogance of having knowledge of God’s Word (1 Corinthians 8:1).

A scab may also appear. A scab or an ulcer is an ostentatious wound. We can apply this, for example, to injustice that has been done to us and that we still cannot forgive. It keeps on festering in us and when we are reminded of the person or the act, the anger in us flares up. Not being able to forgive can become a lack of the mind of forgivingness over time. A root of bitterness then springs up that defiles both the person himself and others (Hebrews 12:15).

The third symptom that may indicate leprosy is a bright spot. We can apply this to, for example, enjoying sin (Hebrews 11:25). It is sin that has a certain attraction, but always deceives us (Hebrews 3:13).

Whoever is suspected of leprosy must be brought to the priest. The decisive factor is not what the leper thinks of it, but the judgment of the priest. When you are suspected of leprosy, it is not right to talk about ‘a triviality to which you should pay no further attention’. Someone who is sincere will want to cooperate in the investigation. The priest is the Lord Jesus. He is never mistaken. The point is not whether someone feels leprous, but whether he is.

Not every sin that a believer does is leprosy. Sometimes a sin indicates it, but after investigation it may appear that it is not. Someone who says or does something in drift, sins. If this is of short duration, there is no state of leprosy. However, if someone persists in his attitude, if it turns out that the evil is deeper than just a temper, there is talk of leprosy. Leprosy does not primarily indicate what someone has done, but what someone is. Sin breaks out because of the indwelling sin. Leprosy indicates the source, the cause, not the act.

The investigation must be done by the priest, by someone who is used to being in the presence of God. He knows God’s thoughts and knows how to apply them correctly, both to himself and to others. A priest in practice is a spiritual brother or sister, to whom the first verse of Galatians 6 applies (Galatians 6:1).

The investigation is to help the (possible) leper. In case he is not leprous, it is a great sin to remove him from the camp. No haste is needed. If it is not immediately clear that it is leprosy, a person suspected of leprosy must be isolated for seven days. Seven days of investigation speaks of a complete period.

The case where someone has a bright spot is discussed in more detail. The proof that it is leprosy is provided when the hair on that white spot has also turned white. It is not only a white spot, but what emerges from it has the same appearance. White hair is not a deterrent. Sin does not always scare off; it can even seem attractive. Nevertheless, there is talk of leprosy and such a person must be pronounced unclean. The hair has turned white when, for example, someone insists, contrary to the Scriptures, that the forsaking of meetings of the church is a free choice (Hebrews 10:25).

Before there is talk of white hair, there may first be a bright spot. Such a bright spot is for example when we notice that someone prays less and reads less in the Bible and visits the meetings less. It seems to indicate that fellowship with the Lord is no longer so important. Priestly investigation must show whether this is due to sin in life or whether there are other causes, such as illness, weakness, disappointment.

The investigation into the cause takes place in all rest: twice seven days. If there is no clarity, we have to wait, each time for a complete period. It really must be proven, earlier there will be no pronouncement or otherwise acquittal. We must wait until the Lord makes the matter clear. The Lord Jesus points to this rest in the investigation when He indicates how to deal with a brother who is sinning (Matthew 18:15-17).

Leviticus 14:53

Introduction

The more we have learned what Leviticus 12 wants to say to us, the more we will be preserved for what we find in this chapter.

This chapter is about the outbreak or a possible outbreak of leprosy in a member of God’s people. Leprosy is a picture of the outbreak of sin, which also makes unclean everyone who comes into contact with it. Leprosy is also used by God as a punishment for sin with Miriam, Gehazi and Uzziah (Numbers 12:5-10; 2 Kings 5:20-27; 2 Chronicles 26:16-21). It is a disease that starts small and spreads slowly over the body, until the whole body is sick. It is an incurable disease that only God can cure (2 Kings 5:7). The appearance is distorted by it, the leper gets a repulsive appearance.

The leper in this and the next chapter is not a picture of the sinner who lives in the world without God. These chapters are about a member of the people of God. With someone who has been hiding behind the blood of the lamb, leprosy can occur. It is the picture of sin that breaks out in a believer. It is something that is small, but gets bigger and bigger, until sin breaks out in all its intensity. Such a person must be excluded. It is humbling that this is such a long chapter. It proves how much we need this ‘treatment of evil’.

Many different facets in which sin can manifest itself are brought to our attention. It must therefore bring us to self-judgment. If in practice we are priests – in principle every believer is, but not every believer lives as such – then we must first apply these things to ourselves and then also to others. That is not only to condemn sin, but also to help the sinner, and especially to keep God’s dwelling place clean.

Suspicion of Leprosy

The LORD speaks to Moses and Aaron about this important matter: outbreak of leprosy in a member of his people. This leprosy can present itself in different ways. Its symptoms appear on the skin. A swelling may appear. In the spiritual application a swelling is what puffs up, arrogance. A severe form of being puffed-up is, for example, that of the arrogance of having knowledge of God’s Word (1 Corinthians 8:1).

A scab may also appear. A scab or an ulcer is an ostentatious wound. We can apply this, for example, to injustice that has been done to us and that we still cannot forgive. It keeps on festering in us and when we are reminded of the person or the act, the anger in us flares up. Not being able to forgive can become a lack of the mind of forgivingness over time. A root of bitterness then springs up that defiles both the person himself and others (Hebrews 12:15).

The third symptom that may indicate leprosy is a bright spot. We can apply this to, for example, enjoying sin (Hebrews 11:25). It is sin that has a certain attraction, but always deceives us (Hebrews 3:13).

Whoever is suspected of leprosy must be brought to the priest. The decisive factor is not what the leper thinks of it, but the judgment of the priest. When you are suspected of leprosy, it is not right to talk about ‘a triviality to which you should pay no further attention’. Someone who is sincere will want to cooperate in the investigation. The priest is the Lord Jesus. He is never mistaken. The point is not whether someone feels leprous, but whether he is.

Not every sin that a believer does is leprosy. Sometimes a sin indicates it, but after investigation it may appear that it is not. Someone who says or does something in drift, sins. If this is of short duration, there is no state of leprosy. However, if someone persists in his attitude, if it turns out that the evil is deeper than just a temper, there is talk of leprosy. Leprosy does not primarily indicate what someone has done, but what someone is. Sin breaks out because of the indwelling sin. Leprosy indicates the source, the cause, not the act.

The investigation must be done by the priest, by someone who is used to being in the presence of God. He knows God’s thoughts and knows how to apply them correctly, both to himself and to others. A priest in practice is a spiritual brother or sister, to whom the first verse of Galatians 6 applies (Galatians 6:1).

The investigation is to help the (possible) leper. In case he is not leprous, it is a great sin to remove him from the camp. No haste is needed. If it is not immediately clear that it is leprosy, a person suspected of leprosy must be isolated for seven days. Seven days of investigation speaks of a complete period.

The case where someone has a bright spot is discussed in more detail. The proof that it is leprosy is provided when the hair on that white spot has also turned white. It is not only a white spot, but what emerges from it has the same appearance. White hair is not a deterrent. Sin does not always scare off; it can even seem attractive. Nevertheless, there is talk of leprosy and such a person must be pronounced unclean. The hair has turned white when, for example, someone insists, contrary to the Scriptures, that the forsaking of meetings of the church is a free choice (Hebrews 10:25).

Before there is talk of white hair, there may first be a bright spot. Such a bright spot is for example when we notice that someone prays less and reads less in the Bible and visits the meetings less. It seems to indicate that fellowship with the Lord is no longer so important. Priestly investigation must show whether this is due to sin in life or whether there are other causes, such as illness, weakness, disappointment.

The investigation into the cause takes place in all rest: twice seven days. If there is no clarity, we have to wait, each time for a complete period. It really must be proven, earlier there will be no pronouncement or otherwise acquittal. We must wait until the Lord makes the matter clear. The Lord Jesus points to this rest in the investigation when He indicates how to deal with a brother who is sinning (Matthew 18:15-17).

Leviticus 14:54

Introduction

The more we have learned what Leviticus 12 wants to say to us, the more we will be preserved for what we find in this chapter.

This chapter is about the outbreak or a possible outbreak of leprosy in a member of God’s people. Leprosy is a picture of the outbreak of sin, which also makes unclean everyone who comes into contact with it. Leprosy is also used by God as a punishment for sin with Miriam, Gehazi and Uzziah (Numbers 12:5-10; 2 Kings 5:20-27; 2 Chronicles 26:16-21). It is a disease that starts small and spreads slowly over the body, until the whole body is sick. It is an incurable disease that only God can cure (2 Kings 5:7). The appearance is distorted by it, the leper gets a repulsive appearance.

The leper in this and the next chapter is not a picture of the sinner who lives in the world without God. These chapters are about a member of the people of God. With someone who has been hiding behind the blood of the lamb, leprosy can occur. It is the picture of sin that breaks out in a believer. It is something that is small, but gets bigger and bigger, until sin breaks out in all its intensity. Such a person must be excluded. It is humbling that this is such a long chapter. It proves how much we need this ‘treatment of evil’.

Many different facets in which sin can manifest itself are brought to our attention. It must therefore bring us to self-judgment. If in practice we are priests – in principle every believer is, but not every believer lives as such – then we must first apply these things to ourselves and then also to others. That is not only to condemn sin, but also to help the sinner, and especially to keep God’s dwelling place clean.

Suspicion of Leprosy

The LORD speaks to Moses and Aaron about this important matter: outbreak of leprosy in a member of his people. This leprosy can present itself in different ways. Its symptoms appear on the skin. A swelling may appear. In the spiritual application a swelling is what puffs up, arrogance. A severe form of being puffed-up is, for example, that of the arrogance of having knowledge of God’s Word (1 Corinthians 8:1).

A scab may also appear. A scab or an ulcer is an ostentatious wound. We can apply this, for example, to injustice that has been done to us and that we still cannot forgive. It keeps on festering in us and when we are reminded of the person or the act, the anger in us flares up. Not being able to forgive can become a lack of the mind of forgivingness over time. A root of bitterness then springs up that defiles both the person himself and others (Hebrews 12:15).

The third symptom that may indicate leprosy is a bright spot. We can apply this to, for example, enjoying sin (Hebrews 11:25). It is sin that has a certain attraction, but always deceives us (Hebrews 3:13).

Whoever is suspected of leprosy must be brought to the priest. The decisive factor is not what the leper thinks of it, but the judgment of the priest. When you are suspected of leprosy, it is not right to talk about ‘a triviality to which you should pay no further attention’. Someone who is sincere will want to cooperate in the investigation. The priest is the Lord Jesus. He is never mistaken. The point is not whether someone feels leprous, but whether he is.

Not every sin that a believer does is leprosy. Sometimes a sin indicates it, but after investigation it may appear that it is not. Someone who says or does something in drift, sins. If this is of short duration, there is no state of leprosy. However, if someone persists in his attitude, if it turns out that the evil is deeper than just a temper, there is talk of leprosy. Leprosy does not primarily indicate what someone has done, but what someone is. Sin breaks out because of the indwelling sin. Leprosy indicates the source, the cause, not the act.

The investigation must be done by the priest, by someone who is used to being in the presence of God. He knows God’s thoughts and knows how to apply them correctly, both to himself and to others. A priest in practice is a spiritual brother or sister, to whom the first verse of Galatians 6 applies (Galatians 6:1).

The investigation is to help the (possible) leper. In case he is not leprous, it is a great sin to remove him from the camp. No haste is needed. If it is not immediately clear that it is leprosy, a person suspected of leprosy must be isolated for seven days. Seven days of investigation speaks of a complete period.

The case where someone has a bright spot is discussed in more detail. The proof that it is leprosy is provided when the hair on that white spot has also turned white. It is not only a white spot, but what emerges from it has the same appearance. White hair is not a deterrent. Sin does not always scare off; it can even seem attractive. Nevertheless, there is talk of leprosy and such a person must be pronounced unclean. The hair has turned white when, for example, someone insists, contrary to the Scriptures, that the forsaking of meetings of the church is a free choice (Hebrews 10:25).

Before there is talk of white hair, there may first be a bright spot. Such a bright spot is for example when we notice that someone prays less and reads less in the Bible and visits the meetings less. It seems to indicate that fellowship with the Lord is no longer so important. Priestly investigation must show whether this is due to sin in life or whether there are other causes, such as illness, weakness, disappointment.

The investigation into the cause takes place in all rest: twice seven days. If there is no clarity, we have to wait, each time for a complete period. It really must be proven, earlier there will be no pronouncement or otherwise acquittal. We must wait until the Lord makes the matter clear. The Lord Jesus points to this rest in the investigation when He indicates how to deal with a brother who is sinning (Matthew 18:15-17).

Leviticus 14:55

Introduction

The more we have learned what Leviticus 12 wants to say to us, the more we will be preserved for what we find in this chapter.

This chapter is about the outbreak or a possible outbreak of leprosy in a member of God’s people. Leprosy is a picture of the outbreak of sin, which also makes unclean everyone who comes into contact with it. Leprosy is also used by God as a punishment for sin with Miriam, Gehazi and Uzziah (Numbers 12:5-10; 2 Kings 5:20-27; 2 Chronicles 26:16-21). It is a disease that starts small and spreads slowly over the body, until the whole body is sick. It is an incurable disease that only God can cure (2 Kings 5:7). The appearance is distorted by it, the leper gets a repulsive appearance.

The leper in this and the next chapter is not a picture of the sinner who lives in the world without God. These chapters are about a member of the people of God. With someone who has been hiding behind the blood of the lamb, leprosy can occur. It is the picture of sin that breaks out in a believer. It is something that is small, but gets bigger and bigger, until sin breaks out in all its intensity. Such a person must be excluded. It is humbling that this is such a long chapter. It proves how much we need this ‘treatment of evil’.

Many different facets in which sin can manifest itself are brought to our attention. It must therefore bring us to self-judgment. If in practice we are priests – in principle every believer is, but not every believer lives as such – then we must first apply these things to ourselves and then also to others. That is not only to condemn sin, but also to help the sinner, and especially to keep God’s dwelling place clean.

Suspicion of Leprosy

The LORD speaks to Moses and Aaron about this important matter: outbreak of leprosy in a member of his people. This leprosy can present itself in different ways. Its symptoms appear on the skin. A swelling may appear. In the spiritual application a swelling is what puffs up, arrogance. A severe form of being puffed-up is, for example, that of the arrogance of having knowledge of God’s Word (1 Corinthians 8:1).

A scab may also appear. A scab or an ulcer is an ostentatious wound. We can apply this, for example, to injustice that has been done to us and that we still cannot forgive. It keeps on festering in us and when we are reminded of the person or the act, the anger in us flares up. Not being able to forgive can become a lack of the mind of forgivingness over time. A root of bitterness then springs up that defiles both the person himself and others (Hebrews 12:15).

The third symptom that may indicate leprosy is a bright spot. We can apply this to, for example, enjoying sin (Hebrews 11:25). It is sin that has a certain attraction, but always deceives us (Hebrews 3:13).

Whoever is suspected of leprosy must be brought to the priest. The decisive factor is not what the leper thinks of it, but the judgment of the priest. When you are suspected of leprosy, it is not right to talk about ‘a triviality to which you should pay no further attention’. Someone who is sincere will want to cooperate in the investigation. The priest is the Lord Jesus. He is never mistaken. The point is not whether someone feels leprous, but whether he is.

Not every sin that a believer does is leprosy. Sometimes a sin indicates it, but after investigation it may appear that it is not. Someone who says or does something in drift, sins. If this is of short duration, there is no state of leprosy. However, if someone persists in his attitude, if it turns out that the evil is deeper than just a temper, there is talk of leprosy. Leprosy does not primarily indicate what someone has done, but what someone is. Sin breaks out because of the indwelling sin. Leprosy indicates the source, the cause, not the act.

The investigation must be done by the priest, by someone who is used to being in the presence of God. He knows God’s thoughts and knows how to apply them correctly, both to himself and to others. A priest in practice is a spiritual brother or sister, to whom the first verse of Galatians 6 applies (Galatians 6:1).

The investigation is to help the (possible) leper. In case he is not leprous, it is a great sin to remove him from the camp. No haste is needed. If it is not immediately clear that it is leprosy, a person suspected of leprosy must be isolated for seven days. Seven days of investigation speaks of a complete period.

The case where someone has a bright spot is discussed in more detail. The proof that it is leprosy is provided when the hair on that white spot has also turned white. It is not only a white spot, but what emerges from it has the same appearance. White hair is not a deterrent. Sin does not always scare off; it can even seem attractive. Nevertheless, there is talk of leprosy and such a person must be pronounced unclean. The hair has turned white when, for example, someone insists, contrary to the Scriptures, that the forsaking of meetings of the church is a free choice (Hebrews 10:25).

Before there is talk of white hair, there may first be a bright spot. Such a bright spot is for example when we notice that someone prays less and reads less in the Bible and visits the meetings less. It seems to indicate that fellowship with the Lord is no longer so important. Priestly investigation must show whether this is due to sin in life or whether there are other causes, such as illness, weakness, disappointment.

The investigation into the cause takes place in all rest: twice seven days. If there is no clarity, we have to wait, each time for a complete period. It really must be proven, earlier there will be no pronouncement or otherwise acquittal. We must wait until the Lord makes the matter clear. The Lord Jesus points to this rest in the investigation when He indicates how to deal with a brother who is sinning (Matthew 18:15-17).

Leviticus 14:56

Introduction

The more we have learned what Leviticus 12 wants to say to us, the more we will be preserved for what we find in this chapter.

This chapter is about the outbreak or a possible outbreak of leprosy in a member of God’s people. Leprosy is a picture of the outbreak of sin, which also makes unclean everyone who comes into contact with it. Leprosy is also used by God as a punishment for sin with Miriam, Gehazi and Uzziah (Numbers 12:5-10; 2 Kings 5:20-27; 2 Chronicles 26:16-21). It is a disease that starts small and spreads slowly over the body, until the whole body is sick. It is an incurable disease that only God can cure (2 Kings 5:7). The appearance is distorted by it, the leper gets a repulsive appearance.

The leper in this and the next chapter is not a picture of the sinner who lives in the world without God. These chapters are about a member of the people of God. With someone who has been hiding behind the blood of the lamb, leprosy can occur. It is the picture of sin that breaks out in a believer. It is something that is small, but gets bigger and bigger, until sin breaks out in all its intensity. Such a person must be excluded. It is humbling that this is such a long chapter. It proves how much we need this ‘treatment of evil’.

Many different facets in which sin can manifest itself are brought to our attention. It must therefore bring us to self-judgment. If in practice we are priests – in principle every believer is, but not every believer lives as such – then we must first apply these things to ourselves and then also to others. That is not only to condemn sin, but also to help the sinner, and especially to keep God’s dwelling place clean.

Suspicion of Leprosy

The LORD speaks to Moses and Aaron about this important matter: outbreak of leprosy in a member of his people. This leprosy can present itself in different ways. Its symptoms appear on the skin. A swelling may appear. In the spiritual application a swelling is what puffs up, arrogance. A severe form of being puffed-up is, for example, that of the arrogance of having knowledge of God’s Word (1 Corinthians 8:1).

A scab may also appear. A scab or an ulcer is an ostentatious wound. We can apply this, for example, to injustice that has been done to us and that we still cannot forgive. It keeps on festering in us and when we are reminded of the person or the act, the anger in us flares up. Not being able to forgive can become a lack of the mind of forgivingness over time. A root of bitterness then springs up that defiles both the person himself and others (Hebrews 12:15).

The third symptom that may indicate leprosy is a bright spot. We can apply this to, for example, enjoying sin (Hebrews 11:25). It is sin that has a certain attraction, but always deceives us (Hebrews 3:13).

Whoever is suspected of leprosy must be brought to the priest. The decisive factor is not what the leper thinks of it, but the judgment of the priest. When you are suspected of leprosy, it is not right to talk about ‘a triviality to which you should pay no further attention’. Someone who is sincere will want to cooperate in the investigation. The priest is the Lord Jesus. He is never mistaken. The point is not whether someone feels leprous, but whether he is.

Not every sin that a believer does is leprosy. Sometimes a sin indicates it, but after investigation it may appear that it is not. Someone who says or does something in drift, sins. If this is of short duration, there is no state of leprosy. However, if someone persists in his attitude, if it turns out that the evil is deeper than just a temper, there is talk of leprosy. Leprosy does not primarily indicate what someone has done, but what someone is. Sin breaks out because of the indwelling sin. Leprosy indicates the source, the cause, not the act.

The investigation must be done by the priest, by someone who is used to being in the presence of God. He knows God’s thoughts and knows how to apply them correctly, both to himself and to others. A priest in practice is a spiritual brother or sister, to whom the first verse of Galatians 6 applies (Galatians 6:1).

The investigation is to help the (possible) leper. In case he is not leprous, it is a great sin to remove him from the camp. No haste is needed. If it is not immediately clear that it is leprosy, a person suspected of leprosy must be isolated for seven days. Seven days of investigation speaks of a complete period.

The case where someone has a bright spot is discussed in more detail. The proof that it is leprosy is provided when the hair on that white spot has also turned white. It is not only a white spot, but what emerges from it has the same appearance. White hair is not a deterrent. Sin does not always scare off; it can even seem attractive. Nevertheless, there is talk of leprosy and such a person must be pronounced unclean. The hair has turned white when, for example, someone insists, contrary to the Scriptures, that the forsaking of meetings of the church is a free choice (Hebrews 10:25).

Before there is talk of white hair, there may first be a bright spot. Such a bright spot is for example when we notice that someone prays less and reads less in the Bible and visits the meetings less. It seems to indicate that fellowship with the Lord is no longer so important. Priestly investigation must show whether this is due to sin in life or whether there are other causes, such as illness, weakness, disappointment.

The investigation into the cause takes place in all rest: twice seven days. If there is no clarity, we have to wait, each time for a complete period. It really must be proven, earlier there will be no pronouncement or otherwise acquittal. We must wait until the Lord makes the matter clear. The Lord Jesus points to this rest in the investigation when He indicates how to deal with a brother who is sinning (Matthew 18:15-17).

Leviticus 14:57

Introduction

The more we have learned what Leviticus 12 wants to say to us, the more we will be preserved for what we find in this chapter.

This chapter is about the outbreak or a possible outbreak of leprosy in a member of God’s people. Leprosy is a picture of the outbreak of sin, which also makes unclean everyone who comes into contact with it. Leprosy is also used by God as a punishment for sin with Miriam, Gehazi and Uzziah (Numbers 12:5-10; 2 Kings 5:20-27; 2 Chronicles 26:16-21). It is a disease that starts small and spreads slowly over the body, until the whole body is sick. It is an incurable disease that only God can cure (2 Kings 5:7). The appearance is distorted by it, the leper gets a repulsive appearance.

The leper in this and the next chapter is not a picture of the sinner who lives in the world without God. These chapters are about a member of the people of God. With someone who has been hiding behind the blood of the lamb, leprosy can occur. It is the picture of sin that breaks out in a believer. It is something that is small, but gets bigger and bigger, until sin breaks out in all its intensity. Such a person must be excluded. It is humbling that this is such a long chapter. It proves how much we need this ‘treatment of evil’.

Many different facets in which sin can manifest itself are brought to our attention. It must therefore bring us to self-judgment. If in practice we are priests – in principle every believer is, but not every believer lives as such – then we must first apply these things to ourselves and then also to others. That is not only to condemn sin, but also to help the sinner, and especially to keep God’s dwelling place clean.

Suspicion of Leprosy

The LORD speaks to Moses and Aaron about this important matter: outbreak of leprosy in a member of his people. This leprosy can present itself in different ways. Its symptoms appear on the skin. A swelling may appear. In the spiritual application a swelling is what puffs up, arrogance. A severe form of being puffed-up is, for example, that of the arrogance of having knowledge of God’s Word (1 Corinthians 8:1).

A scab may also appear. A scab or an ulcer is an ostentatious wound. We can apply this, for example, to injustice that has been done to us and that we still cannot forgive. It keeps on festering in us and when we are reminded of the person or the act, the anger in us flares up. Not being able to forgive can become a lack of the mind of forgivingness over time. A root of bitterness then springs up that defiles both the person himself and others (Hebrews 12:15).

The third symptom that may indicate leprosy is a bright spot. We can apply this to, for example, enjoying sin (Hebrews 11:25). It is sin that has a certain attraction, but always deceives us (Hebrews 3:13).

Whoever is suspected of leprosy must be brought to the priest. The decisive factor is not what the leper thinks of it, but the judgment of the priest. When you are suspected of leprosy, it is not right to talk about ‘a triviality to which you should pay no further attention’. Someone who is sincere will want to cooperate in the investigation. The priest is the Lord Jesus. He is never mistaken. The point is not whether someone feels leprous, but whether he is.

Not every sin that a believer does is leprosy. Sometimes a sin indicates it, but after investigation it may appear that it is not. Someone who says or does something in drift, sins. If this is of short duration, there is no state of leprosy. However, if someone persists in his attitude, if it turns out that the evil is deeper than just a temper, there is talk of leprosy. Leprosy does not primarily indicate what someone has done, but what someone is. Sin breaks out because of the indwelling sin. Leprosy indicates the source, the cause, not the act.

The investigation must be done by the priest, by someone who is used to being in the presence of God. He knows God’s thoughts and knows how to apply them correctly, both to himself and to others. A priest in practice is a spiritual brother or sister, to whom the first verse of Galatians 6 applies (Galatians 6:1).

The investigation is to help the (possible) leper. In case he is not leprous, it is a great sin to remove him from the camp. No haste is needed. If it is not immediately clear that it is leprosy, a person suspected of leprosy must be isolated for seven days. Seven days of investigation speaks of a complete period.

The case where someone has a bright spot is discussed in more detail. The proof that it is leprosy is provided when the hair on that white spot has also turned white. It is not only a white spot, but what emerges from it has the same appearance. White hair is not a deterrent. Sin does not always scare off; it can even seem attractive. Nevertheless, there is talk of leprosy and such a person must be pronounced unclean. The hair has turned white when, for example, someone insists, contrary to the Scriptures, that the forsaking of meetings of the church is a free choice (Hebrews 10:25).

Before there is talk of white hair, there may first be a bright spot. Such a bright spot is for example when we notice that someone prays less and reads less in the Bible and visits the meetings less. It seems to indicate that fellowship with the Lord is no longer so important. Priestly investigation must show whether this is due to sin in life or whether there are other causes, such as illness, weakness, disappointment.

The investigation into the cause takes place in all rest: twice seven days. If there is no clarity, we have to wait, each time for a complete period. It really must be proven, earlier there will be no pronouncement or otherwise acquittal. We must wait until the Lord makes the matter clear. The Lord Jesus points to this rest in the investigation when He indicates how to deal with a brother who is sinning (Matthew 18:15-17).