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Day 38 – Thru the Bible
Today we continue in Leviticus and the Psalms.
Leviticus 24 – This section uses a story about a blasphemer to introduce principles of public justice. The basic principle is expressed with the well-known phrase “an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth” (v. 20). Israelites understood that this was not to be applied in a vengeful or mechanical way, but was a guiding principle for the public courts, emphasizing the importance of justice: the punishment must fit the crime.
In Jesus’ day, some were misusing this principle by applying it in the context of personal relationships and using it to excuse acts of revenge.
How does Jesus correct this misinterpretation? Hint: Matthew 5:38–42.
How do we show others the same patient love we ourselves have received, and continue to receive, from Jesus himself? Hint: Ephesians 5:2; Matthew 18:21–35.
Leviticus 25 – This section gives laws for the seventh year rest, the Year of Jubilee, and laws that apply redemption and the jubilee to those who become poor. These laws help the Israelites to depend upon God’s provision and to know how to usher in a society in which the justice, harmony, love, and mercy the Lord intended for humanity could be lived out in practice. Socially, families would be reunited and strengthened, while economically, there would be equity and opportunity.
How did Jesus show us these principles were His mission statement? Hint: Luke 4:18–19.
Our biggest need is to be redeemed from the debt of our sins. How does Jesus accomplish this redemption? Hint: Galatians 3:13; Titus 2:13-14.
How do we extend His redemption to those around us? Hint: Matthew 28:18–20.
Psalm 38 – This is an explicit confession of personal sin against God. The Lord had to discipline David before he could smell the stench of his sin, feel the agony of his iniquity, suffer the shame of his guilt, and realize the numbness of his spiritual senses. God’s correction of a believer is meant to soften the heart and restore fellowship.
David is also suffering the hostility of his enemies. His foes hate him wrongfully. We are reminded of David’s Greater Son, Jesus Himself, who similarly suffered wrongful hostility.
David’s refuge is ours as well—the Lord who saves us and who loves as he knows is best. We can similarly call on God to help and deliver us, though we need not be anxious as to whether God will answer us. For we see Jesus, God incarnate, come to earth. God has drawn near to us.
How are you reminded of God’s love for you when you stumble or are wrongly accused?
What other thoughts or questions does today’s reading bring up?
Some of these notes are from the ESV Gospel Transformation Bible study notes. We highly recommend this study Bible.
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