God commands His people to bring Him only their best.
“Whatever has a defect, you shall not offer, for it will not be accepted for you” (v.20). In the midst of Leviticus 22, which lays out precise instructions for offerings to the LORD by the priests and the people of Israel, this command underscores the high standards God set for the sacrificial system. The word “defect” here implies any physical imperfection or blemish in the animal meant for sacrifice, highlighting the reverential approach required in approaching God’s holiness. This teaching reflects the overarching theme of Leviticus: to remind the nation that the LORD is holy and that He desires His people to mirror His purity through their worship and daily conduct.
By emphasizing that any offering with a defect “will not be accepted” (v.20), the passage reveals God’s deep concern with the heart and obedience of the worshiper. Rather than cutting corners or giving whatever one finds convenient, the people must give something that demonstrates sincerity and respect for His divine nature. This notion foreshadows the need for perfect righteousness offered on behalf of humanity, which is fully realized in Jesus Christ, described in the New Testament as a Lamb “unblemished and spotless” (1 Peter 1:19). In that sense, the rigorous standards of Leviticus point to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, who meets God’s requirement of perfection on behalf of those who believe (Hebrews 9:14).
The significance for believers today is found in the challenge to uphold purity and devotion in worship, recognizing that God is worthy of our very best offerings—whether that be our service, our attitude, or our commitment. While modern faith practice no longer involves animal sacrifices, the principle remains: believers are called to bring an undivided heart and genuine love when they come before the Lord. This verse continues to encourage wholehearted devotion, urging Christ-followers to offer their entire selves without reservation or compromise.
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Leviticus 22:20 meaning
“Whatever has a defect, you shall not offer, for it will not be accepted for you” (v.20). In the midst of Leviticus 22, which lays out precise instructions for offerings to the LORD by the priests and the people of Israel, this command underscores the high standards God set for the sacrificial system. The word “defect” here implies any physical imperfection or blemish in the animal meant for sacrifice, highlighting the reverential approach required in approaching God’s holiness. This teaching reflects the overarching theme of Leviticus: to remind the nation that the LORD is holy and that He desires His people to mirror His purity through their worship and daily conduct.
By emphasizing that any offering with a defect “will not be accepted” (v.20), the passage reveals God’s deep concern with the heart and obedience of the worshiper. Rather than cutting corners or giving whatever one finds convenient, the people must give something that demonstrates sincerity and respect for His divine nature. This notion foreshadows the need for perfect righteousness offered on behalf of humanity, which is fully realized in Jesus Christ, described in the New Testament as a Lamb “unblemished and spotless” (1 Peter 1:19). In that sense, the rigorous standards of Leviticus point to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, who meets God’s requirement of perfection on behalf of those who believe (Hebrews 9:14).
The significance for believers today is found in the challenge to uphold purity and devotion in worship, recognizing that God is worthy of our very best offerings—whether that be our service, our attitude, or our commitment. While modern faith practice no longer involves animal sacrifices, the principle remains: believers are called to bring an undivided heart and genuine love when they come before the Lord. This verse continues to encourage wholehearted devotion, urging Christ-followers to offer their entire selves without reservation or compromise.