Feb. 11, 2021
The Lord outlines which animals the Israelites may eat by telling them which ones are ceremonially clean and which are not clean. He then provides requirements for personal cleansing after a woman gives birth.
These restrictions had several purposes. One was to set Israel apart from the pagan nations around them. This reduced the influence of idolatrous nations on the Israelites. Second, these restrictions on food and personal hygiene protected God’s people from diseases. These laws required obedience from the people in every aspect of their lives.
These verses describe the beginning of the events that result in the crucifixion of Jesus. The chief priests and elders plot to get rid of Jesus. Judas makes a deal with them, accepting money to betray Him.
Upon entering Jerusalem, Jesus sends His disciples to prepare the Passover meal for them. He is fully aware that it will usher in the time of His sacrifice on the cross. He even tells the disciples that one of them will betray Him, and they each worry aloud that they might be the one to do so. Judas plays along, and Jesus lets him know that He knows what Judas is about to do.
Make It Personal
- God has since lifted the restrictions on what we can eat, but we are still to limit our fellowship with people who would draw us away from Him. How can you strive to be the influencer rather than the influenced when dealing with people who would like to damage your relationship with God?
- What do you do that betrays Jesus?