Confusing Laws (Outlawed #4)
What should we do with strange Old Testament laws? Are we allowed to ignore Old Testament laws simply because they confuse us?
Q. & A.
1. Why are there so many confusing laws in the Old Testament, particularly in books like Leviticus?
Many of the seemingly strange laws found in the Old Testament, especially those related to mixing materials, food, or handling dead bodies, were centered around the concept of holiness. In this context, holiness doesn't just mean avoiding sin; it also encompassed ritual purity and separation from the ordinary. These laws aimed to set the Israelites apart from other nations and prepare them for encounters with God.
2. Do these laws about mixtures, like clothing materials or planting seeds, have anything to do with pagan practices?
While some interpretations link these laws to the practices of surrounding cultures, a closer look reveals that they were more about distinction and set-apartness. God designated the Tabernacle, a place where heaven and earth met, as a space where mixing was permitted. Elsewhere, mixing was prohibited, emphasizing the sacredness of the Tabernacle and the need for the Israelites to live differently from the world.
3. What is the significance of the law forbidding boiling a young goat in its mother's milk?
There are differing interpretations of this law. One view suggests it emphasizes the separation of life and death, with milk symbolizing life and the goat representing death. Another interpretation points to a compassionate ethic towards animals, suggesting that God was teaching his people to treat animals with respect.
4. Why were priests subject to stricter purity laws compared to ordinary Israelites?
The priests, especially the high priest, had a unique role in mediating between God and the people. Because they were closer to God's presence in the Tabernacle, they had to maintain a higher level of ritual purity to avoid defiling the sacred space.
5. Are Christians still bound by these Old Testament laws about holiness?
While Christians are no longer bound by the specific rituals and regulations of the Old Testament, the call to holiness remains. Jesus fulfilled the ceremonial aspects of the law, but he also calls his followers to live holy lives, reflecting God's character and love in the world.
6. How does the tearing of the temple curtain at Jesus' death relate to holiness?
The tearing of the curtain symbolized the removal of the barrier between humanity and God's presence. Through Jesus' sacrifice, access to God is now open to all, eliminating the need for the intricate system of ritual purity found in the Old Testament.
7. How can Christians practically apply the concept of holiness in their lives today?
Holiness for Christians involves growing in Christlikeness and separating from sin. It also means living lives marked by love, compassion, and integrity, attracting others to God by reflecting his character.
8. Why is it important for Christians to understand these seemingly confusing laws?
Studying these laws, even though we are not bound by them, helps us understand the historical context of God's relationship with his people and the progression of revelation culminating in Jesus. They also provide insights into God's character and his desire for a people set apart for his purposes.
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