Today's Passage: Leviticus 21
If you look at the history of anthropology you will find several characteristics that are true for many generations of mankind. One of these is class distinctions based on the physical deformities of a person. Through the progress of society, particularly in the United States, many rights and regulations have been fought for to declare equality among everyone. In Leviticus 21, one may think that God is making an unfair distinction between those with and without deformities.
There are several reasons why God did not see fit for those with deformities to be a part of the priesthood. The most significant reason is the connection to the Old Testament purification laws. Similar to the importance of having an unblemished sacrifice, the priest must also be without blemish. This passage is a litany of traits that cause a priest to be unclean.
So is this passage of mere historical significance? May it never be! 1 Peter 2:9a, "But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God's own possession." If you are a believer in Jesus Christ then you are part of the priesthood. This does not mean that if you have a physical deformity then you cannot be a part of the ministry in this world. However, believers in Jesus are not allowed to walk around with blemishes. These blemishes are no longer physical defects but spiritual sins. God considers the walk of his priest in Leviticus very important. Moreover, he considers the walk of his priests today (which is all Christians) very important.
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