Standards

O. T. #288  "Standards"
May 14, 2014
Leviticus 21
Whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.  Colossians 3:17

LET IT GLOW

Are we lifting up, living by, loving in God's standards for our life? In order to know what pleases God, we have to study and read His Word. I know that takes time from one's schedule, but it is needful if we are to do our best for Him.

This chapter informs us of the highest standards of character and conduct required of the high priest and other priests. Holy character and conduct of God's servants as they minister to the Lord and His people is the main idea here. Mentioned in this chapter are the laws concerning their mourning for the dead, marriage, and conduct of family relationships.

Wiersbe's Expository Outlines on the Old Testament  gives this outline for chapter 21:

• Conduct of the priests (verses 1-19)
• Conduct of the high priest (verses 10-15)
• Characteristics of the priests (verses 16-24)

God gives specific details in these categories concerning the priests. You can read them in this chapter.
Do we hold our pastors/preachers to a higher standard? They are accountable to God for their ministry and conduct.

Laws for the priests are given, which demanded a higher standard of holly conduct than for the general Israelite. (MacArthur)

LET IT GROW

The high priest had higher standards placed upon him because of the nature of his office. People usually will not rise higher than their leader, so leaders must walk circumspectly. (Falwell)

God warns that, as we serve Him, we not profane:

• ourselves (verse 5),
• God's name (verses 6, 22:2),
• God's sanctuary (verse 120,
• our children (verse 15),
• any holy things that we handle in ministry (verse 15).  (Wiersbe)

As the priests were held to a higher standard of character and conduct, as well as the sacrifices offered, this pictures our Lord Jesus Christ. He is our perfect High Priest and perfect sacrifice
(Heb. 7:26-28; 10:1-4). God's people are priests (1 Peter 2:5,9) and our sacrifices are to be our best which we give to God (Rom. 12:1).

Are we heeding these? Do we live by the standards which God has for us?


LET IT GO

Honor and respect God's name and His sanctuary.

Teach our children to live by God's standards.

Live by these standards to please God.