The blessing of obedience

Scripture: Leviticus 26:1-13

Sermon notes 

The blessings of obedience                  Leviticus 26:1-13

The holiness of life that is the mark of the redeemed of the Lord is still the theme of these verses. The life of God’s people is to be marked by obedience. Holiness is simply obedience.

In this chapter the Lord outlines in some detail the benefits of obedience and the serious consequences of disobedience in the lives of His people. More instruction and detail is given on the side of disobedience.

I  A CHECKLIST FOR OBEDIENCE.

Obedience of God is simply defined and described.

1. Idolatrous worship is forbidden, v1. It is striking to see how the definition of obedience begins with a prohibition. To obey God will require us to avoid certain behaviours—notably here, false worship.
2. Basic requirements for obedience underscored, v2. The close connection between obeying God and worship is continued here. Two aspects of obedient worship are referenced:
3. My Sabbaths, v2. The various Sabbaths instituted by God are a primary focus of this chapter. There is a strong focus upon their role in the consequences of disobedience, v34, 43. This is a continuance of the theme of the previous chapter where two kinds of Sabbaths were taught. The weekly Sabbath is obviously included.
4. My sanctuary, v2. A fear of God was to extend to ‘the holy place’. The house of God, ordinarily the centre for true worship, was to be revered. God’s people were to ‘tremble’ in consideration of the sanctuary.
5. A general statement of what was required for obedience, v3. In these few words there is a consideration of all God has revealed in His word. The word of God is to be regarded as a lasting and authoritative revelation of His will. That word is to become a way of life affecting every step; to be guarded and carefully observed; to be actively practiced.

II  THE BLESSING OF GOD ATTENDS OBEDIENCE.

In v4-12 the Lord expands upon the various blessings that attend obedience in the lives of His people. Some of the applications of these promises related specially to Israel and their experience of Canaan. Yet to a degree they will apply to obedient believers wherever they are.

1. Natural blessings, v4-5, 10. Even such matters as these are affected by our relationship with God.
2. Safety and peace, v6-8. On various levels the Lord promised rest, peace and security to the land as His people obeyed Him. When enemies did trouble them they could be sure of victory if they were in tune with God.
3. The presence of God, v9, 11-12. When God’s people obey His word they enjoy His presence.
4. Recognition, v9. He would turn His face toward them. This indicates His favour and blessing. Cp Num 6:24-26.
5. Multiply, v9. The enlargement and growth of the cause of God is secured by obedience of His word. We have seen all kinds of ‘growth strategies’ for the church—yet here is the only strategy that works!
6. Dwell among them, v11-12. Several statements combine here to indicate the presence of God among the obedient. His house would be maintained among them, v11; His soul would be toward them, v11; He would walk among them, v12; they would enjoy the blessing of conscious covenant communion/relationship with God, v12.

III   THE PURPOSE OF GOD.

Obedient service followed by rich blessing summarized the purpose of God that underlies redemption.

1. I am the Lord your God, v13. Obedience and the blessing that it receives is the product of belonging to the Lord. Because of what God is, obedience is rewarded.
2. The right use of gospel liberty, v13. Here is the reason why God released His people from Egypt and broke that yoke which had bowed them down. Obedience of God is not bondage, a heavy yoke or slavish service. Cp Matt 11:28-29, Rom 6:17-18, 22.