Page 43 - Biblical Ethics Course

to them the Torah, a term often rendered as “Law,” but really having the broader sense of “instruction.
”The Law of Moses occupies about half the Pentateuch. The Decalogue (Ex 20:2–17), which means “ten
words” or commandments (34:28), was spoken by God on Mt Sinai at the time of Israel’s adoption. Leviticus
outlines God’s covenant expectations. Yahweh and the Hebrew people formally entered into a covenant, a
contractual agreement, at Sinai (Exodus 24:1–8). As God’s chosen people, Israel was expected to live in a
way that honored Him.

The book of Leviticus elaborates on many laws about rituals and sacrifices, the true focus of the book is
holiness—ensuring that the people maintain a community worthy of God’s special presence. Holiness
means being set apart for a purpose. Maintaining holiness involves having the attitude of respect that
God’s holiness deserves. In Leviticus, God repeatedly states that His people must be holy because He is holy
(e.g., Lev 11:44). Obedience in ritual and ethical matters is essential for the preservation of Israel’s holiness.
In this way, Leviticus links worship with ethical living.

Do Christians have to obey the Old Testament?

6.4 Let’s Practice…

1. When will the process of sanctification be completed?

2. Describe the nature of good works:

3-8. List and describe the six features of Biblical Ethics:

9. What crucial passage is the hinge between the redemptive history of the Exodus and the law and covenant
texts that follow?

10-12. The Decalogue (Ten Commandments) is divided into three duties. What are they?

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