Leviticus 20 - Day 147

Leviticus 20 - Day 147 (link to reading plan)

Scripture: Leviticus 20:1-5

Commentary: One of the major themes in this book equates idolatry with prostituting oneself after other gods. This in turn pollutes Yahweh’s sanctuary, the Israelites themselves and the land. The practice of sacrificing children to Molech (see comment on 18:21) is condemned, and the perpetrators are to be stoned (a form of communal execution which draws everyone into the act of purification). No violation of this command will be tolerated, even if God must mete out the punishment when the community chooses to turn a blind eye to sin. The idea of “cutting off” the sinner implies complete banishment from God and the community and was generally a punishment that was seen as being carried out by God.

 Matthews, V. H., Chavalas, M. W., & Walton, J. H. (2000). The IVP Bible background commentary: Old Testament (electronic ed., Le 20:2–5). Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press.

Application: Although the practice of sacrificing children to a statue, would not be tolerated in our society today.  As a nation, we've aborted 45 million infants since 1970.  I understand that the problem is bigger than just eliminating abortion as an option because boys/men need to take responsibility for their part too.  However, the fact still remains that God abhors innocent children being killed.  

Prayer: Lord, have mercy on us and help us fix this problem.