God’s commandments remind us that obedience is central to a thriving relationship with Him.
“So you shall keep My commandments, and do them; I am the LORD.” (v.31)
This verse emphasizes the consistent biblical theme of following God’s commandments as a demonstration of faith and allegiance. By stating “So you shall keep My commandments, and do them” (v.31), the Lord underscores the necessity of obedience in the covenant relationship He established with the Israelites. Obedience to His commands is not presented as a burdensome requirement, but rather as a reflection of trust, love, and loyalty. This principle finds a parallel in the teachings of Jesus, who likewise stressed obedience as a sign of devotion, as when He said, “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments” (John 14:15).
This passage also highlights the divine authority behind each command. When the verse closes with “I am the LORD” (v.31), it reaffirms that these are not human policies or cultural customs, but instructions set in place by the Creator Himself. This statement of authority served as a reminder to the ancient Israelites, living approximately between the 15th and 13th century BC, that the sovereign God who delivered them from bondage in Egypt (Exodus 14) is the One instructing them. It is by His power and love that they were rescued, and thus obedience is a response of gratitude and respect.
Furthermore, obedience to God’s commandments was a core part of Israel’s identity as a holy people. These commandments helped shape them into a community defined by righteousness and care for one another, reflecting God’s character. Such an understanding of obedience foreshadows New Testament teachings on holiness and love, wherein believers in Christ are called to emulate God’s holiness (1 Peter 1:15-16). For Christians today, this Old Testament principle remains relevant: to honor God means to heed His Word out of reverence for who He is and acknowledgement of His rightful sovereignty.
Set to dark mode
Leviticus 22:31 meaning
“So you shall keep My commandments, and do them; I am the LORD.” (v.31)
This verse emphasizes the consistent biblical theme of following God’s commandments as a demonstration of faith and allegiance. By stating “So you shall keep My commandments, and do them” (v.31), the Lord underscores the necessity of obedience in the covenant relationship He established with the Israelites. Obedience to His commands is not presented as a burdensome requirement, but rather as a reflection of trust, love, and loyalty. This principle finds a parallel in the teachings of Jesus, who likewise stressed obedience as a sign of devotion, as when He said, “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments” (John 14:15).
This passage also highlights the divine authority behind each command. When the verse closes with “I am the LORD” (v.31), it reaffirms that these are not human policies or cultural customs, but instructions set in place by the Creator Himself. This statement of authority served as a reminder to the ancient Israelites, living approximately between the 15th and 13th century BC, that the sovereign God who delivered them from bondage in Egypt (Exodus 14) is the One instructing them. It is by His power and love that they were rescued, and thus obedience is a response of gratitude and respect.
Furthermore, obedience to God’s commandments was a core part of Israel’s identity as a holy people. These commandments helped shape them into a community defined by righteousness and care for one another, reflecting God’s character. Such an understanding of obedience foreshadows New Testament teachings on holiness and love, wherein believers in Christ are called to emulate God’s holiness (1 Peter 1:15-16). For Christians today, this Old Testament principle remains relevant: to honor God means to heed His Word out of reverence for who He is and acknowledgement of His rightful sovereignty.