The Pattern of Man
Read Leviticus 24:10
Today’s Truth
Here is a story of a young man who was half Egyptian and half Israelite. There must have been hundreds of young men and women in the camp of Israel who had that background. This doesn't mean there is anything inherently wrong with that. But this person is picked out and highlighted for us because his life typifies a spiritual conflict.
In the Scriptures, Israel is a picture of the Spirit at work within us, of the new life, the redeemed life, while Egypt is always a picture of the world, of the old life. Here is someone who, in type, is trying to mix the two — trying to live halfway between. He pictures someone who is still trying to conduct his business affairs, perhaps, by the laws of Egypt, by the ways of the world, and is also trying to mix in the world view and outlook of God. This always gets you into trouble.
Discussion Questions
- What does the punishment for the blasphemer reveal about how seriously God takes His Name? How does this shape your understanding of using God's name respectfully?
- How does the story of the blasphemer challenge us to think about our words and actions?
- How can we reconcile the harsh punishments outlined in this chapter with God's nature as a God of love and forgiveness?
Application
When we compromise godly principles with worldly concepts the consequence is a form or a degree of spiritual death. Do we then blame God? Is it rather time to launch out into His grace of forgiveness?
