9/27/26, Melrose Community Church, Sunday Service

What does it truly mean to be holy, and why does it matter more than we might think? In this exploration of the book of Leviticus, we uncover a theme that runs deeper than ancient rituals and priestly regulations. At the heart of this third book of the Bible is a call that echoes across the centuries directly into our lives: 'You shall be holy, for I the Lord your God am holy.' That call, found in Leviticus 19 and repeated by the apostle Peter in his first letter, is not a distant religious ideal. It is a personal invitation into a life of genuine relationship with God. We discover that holiness carries a dual significance. Through the work of Christ, we are made holy in our standing before God, and at the same time we are called to pursue holiness in our daily walk. These two realities are not in tension. They are meant to work together, much like a farmer who depends entirely on God for rain and sun but still takes responsibility for plowing, planting, and cultivating. God has made holy living possible. The walking, however, is ours to do. Along the way, we see that holiness is not a prerequisite for receiving salvation, but it is essential for fellowship with God, for our own well-being, for effective service, and as evidence of genuine faith. This is not a message that burdens us. It is one that frees us, reminding us that distance from God is our most serious problem, and that through Christ, hope is always near.

Discussion Questions:

- Reread the definition in the Listening Guide for holiness. What thoughts come to mind as you consider that definition?

- God often instructs us, “be holy, for I am holy.” Why are we so often instructed in this?

- How is Jesus seen in the various offerings of Leviticus?

        - Burnt offering

        - Grain offering

        - Peace offering

        - Sin offering

        - Trespass/Guilt offering