Leviticus 21: The Priests Conduct

I. Introduction: The book of Leviticus, often seen as outdated and irrelevant, holds profound wisdom applicable to contemporary life. Leviticus 21, in particular, contains distinctive instructions for the priests, but its wisdom is not limited to ancient Israelites alone. It offers deep insights that inspire us to live holy and pure lives. This outline provides an evaluative and inspirational exploration of Leviticus 21.

II. Leviticus 21:1-6: Priests’ Purity
In Leviticus 21:1-6, the priests are instructed not to defile themselves by coming into contact with a dead body, except for close relatives. This directs us to keep ourselves from spiritual death (Romans 6:23). As believers, we are reminded of our call to be a royal priesthood (1 Peter 2:9) and to keep ourselves pure from worldly contamination (James 1:27).

III. Leviticus 21:7-9: Marital Standards for Priests
These verses highlight the marital standards for priests, discouraging marriage with prostitutes or divorcees. The wisdom here parallels with the New Testament teachings where marriage is held sacred (Hebrews 13:4) and Christ’s love for the Church is typified (Ephesians 5:25-27). This alerts us to uphold sanctity in our relationships.

IV. Leviticus 21:10-15: High Priest’s Conduct
The high priest’s conduct is meticulously outlined in these verses. As he is consecrated to God, utmost purity is expected from him (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). This inspires us to live a life set apart for God, making choices that honor Him.

V. Leviticus 21:16-24: Priests’ Physical Requirements
This section, often seen as controversial, dictates that priests should have no physical defects. This can be interpreted as an allegory of spiritual perfection (Matthew 5:48). Today, as priests in the New Testament era, we are called to be spiritually mature (Hebrews 6:1).

VI. Cross References

1. Leviticus 21:6 – Romans 6:23
2. Leviticus 21:6 – 1 Peter 2:9
3. Leviticus 21:6 – James 1:27
4. Leviticus 21:7 – Hebrews 13:4
5. Leviticus 21:7 – Ephesians 5:25-27
6. Leviticus 21:10 – 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
7. Leviticus 21:16 – Matthew 5:48
8. Leviticus 21:16 – Hebrews 6:1

VII. Conclusion:
Exploring Leviticus 21 in the light of the New Testament, it is apparent that its wisdom transcends time and culture. Its guidelines inspire us to lead holy, pure, and consecrated lives. As modern-day priests, we are called to live out the wisdom within Leviticus 21, keeping ourselves pure, maintaining sanctity in relationships, leading lives set apart for God, and striving for spiritual maturity.