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Reformed (Presbyterian) Lens Commentary: Leviticus 19:34

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Reformed (Presbyterian) Lens Reading of Leviticus 19:34

Tradition-Specific Interpretation

We read Leviticus 19:34 as a profound testament to God's covenantal faithfulness and sovereign grace. The command to love the stranger as oneself finds its fulfillment in Christ, who embodies the true Israel and opens the covenant to all nations. This passage reminds us of our call to reflect God's character, rooted in the covenant of grace, which transcends ethnic and national boundaries. As Christ has loved us, so we are to love others, demonstrating the redemptive history that culminates in the church's mission to the world.

Key Language Decisions

The Hebrew term for 'stranger' (ger) emphasizes the inclusion of those outside the ethnic Israelite community within the covenant community, foreshadowing the New Covenant's expansion to the Gentiles. The imperative to 'love' (ahav) is not merely emotional but covenantal, demanding action that reflects God's steadfast love (hesed) for His people. The semantic range of these terms underscores the continuity of God's redemptive plan from Israel to the church.

Where Traditions Diverge

Our Reformed perspective differs from Arminian readings that might emphasize human choice in responding to God's commands. We affirm that our ability to love the stranger is not rooted in human decision but in God's sovereign grace that transforms us. Unlike Dispensationalism, we see the continuity of God's covenant people from Israel to the church, rather than separate dispensations.

Pastoral Application

Preaching this passage, we should emphasize our identity as a covenant community called to reflect God's sovereign grace in our treatment of others, particularly those who are different from us. The congregation should be encouraged to see their mission as embodying the love of Christ, extending the covenantal promise to all nations. This text calls us to a radical hospitality, grounded not in human effort but in the assurance of God's unshakeable decree, reminding us that our actions are a means of grace through which God's kingdom is realized.

Cross-References: Exodus 22:21; Deuteronomy 10:19; Matthew 22:39; Galatians 6:10; Ephesians 2:12-13

Doctrinal Connections: Covenant of Grace; Sovereign Grace; Redemptive History; Effectual Calling; Perseverance of the Saints

Topics & Themes

Covenant of GraceSovereign GraceRedemptive HistoryEffectual CallingPerseverance of the Saints

Scripture References

Leviticus 19:34

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