| Date | Version | Reading Plan |
|---|---|---|
| April 22, 2025 | ESV (2016) | OT/NT Plan 2025 – 2027 |
Leviticus 22
Observation
Carrying on from the previous chapter, the LORD spoke to Moses to speak to Aaron and his sons regarding the operative parameters of the priesthood. Specific to this chapter were commands around remaining clean and who was to eat of the priest’s food. Additionally, the LORD gave instruction through Moses on what was acceptable as offerings. Animals to be used as offerings were required to be without blemish (except for minor defects in the case of freewill offerings), were not to be offered in the first seven days of life nor was an ox or sheep to be killed with its offspring on the same day. All commandments were to be kept in order that the LORD’s holy name was not profaned. He is the LORD who sanctified them brought them out of the land of Egypt.
Application
The LORD sanctifies His people. To sanctify is to “consecrate; make legitimate or binding by religious sanction; free from sin”. We cannot do this on our own, making any attempt of self-sanctification a futile endeavor. Only by the LORD—supreme in holiness and perfection—can we be so sanctified and provided ability to be in His presence. Praise be to our God who, despite our sin and rebellion, acted with such abounding grace, that through the sacrifice of His Son, we can dwell with Him all our days.
Acts 23
Observation
Hostility continues against Paul as he addressed the council. Things became violent, prompting the tribune to bring Paul into the barracks. The Lord came to Paul the following night and told him to take courage, that as he testified to the facts about Him in Jerusalem, so Paul must also do in Rome (Acts 23:11).
A plot arose among the Jews to kill Paul but it was overheard by the son of Paul’s sister. “For his protection, the Romans transfer Paul to Caesarea, the seat of the Roman government in Judaea.” (FSB)
Application
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for the sanctifying work in Your children. What ceaseless praise is due to our God of all glory and grace.
Resources
- J. I. Packer et. al, The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Wheaton, IL: Crossway Bibles, 2016)
- Colin Hansen (Editor in Chief), TGC Bible Commentary (Columbia, MO: The Gospel Coalition, 2022)
- Iain M. Duguid (Series Editor), ESV Expository Commentary (Wheaton, IL: Crossway, 2018-2025)
- Faithlife Study Bible (Lexham Press, 2016)
- Believer’s Bible Commentary (Thomas Nelson, 2016)
- CSB Study Bible Notes (Holman Bible Publishers, 2017)
- The New American Commentary (Brentwood, TN: Holman Reference)