Leviticus 20, which outlines the penalties for lawbreaking, is a disturbing chapter for modern readers. We need to remember though that this is not just a moral law, but a civil law. Also, it had to make sense to the ancient people it was intended for. If anything, these penalties were lenient by ancient standards. There are no prologued tortures such as were common in the ancient world. Critics of the Bible will complain about the death penalty accompanying sexual sins and even cursing parents here. In an ancient tribal society, however, these sins would destroy the vital cohesion of the community leaving it divided and vulnerable. But that is not even the most important reason for why ‘mere’ moral lapses are treated so seriously under this law. God is setting up a higher standard than what was normal at the time. That high standard matches the high status and calling of God’s people. As Jesus said: “The one who does not know and does things deserving punishment will be beaten with few blows. From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked” (Luke 12:48). Overall, however, we should remember that the Bible is a progressive story. These penalties were something of a necessary evil; a step towards something better. The Mosaic civil law is not the ultimate expression of God’s will. Jesus is the ultimate expression of who God is, and he is always willing to let grace trump judgement, as is evident in the story of the woman caught in adultery (John 8:1-11).
Reflect on how seriously you are taking God’s commands
Read Leviticus 20
