When It's Deeper Than It Looks

Lev. 13:1-4, 20, 25

Intro: We are all familiar with the Biblical typology of leprosy.  It is always a picture of sin.  In these verses, God set up a system to protect not only the person in question, but the whole congregation, including the priest.  God's way of dealing with a situation is much more complicated than man's way.  God's way is thorough, detailed and right.  Let's examine God's procedures when there's a problem that may be deeper than it appears on the surface.

I. The Discovery of the Problem

            A. The Apparent Symptoms - vs. 2

                        1. A Rising - something that has come to the surface and is sticking up

                        2. A Scab - something that has been there a while; apparently was hidden

                        3. A Bright Spot - something that doesn't look normal; inflammation

            B. The Assistance Suggested - vs. 2 - he shall be brought (insinuates others get involved)

Galatians 6:1  Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.

            Turn to I Cor. 5:1-13

                        1. Because of the soul involved - love, concern, etc. for that person

                        2. Because of the seriousness involved - leprosy was a highly contagious plague

                        3. Because of the sin involved - it could be more than just a flesh problem

II. The Dealing with the Problem

            A. The Analysis - vs. 3 - the priest shall look on the plague;

            vs. 13 says the priest shall consider if:

                        1. The problem is superficial or serious- if the hair is white, then it has roots

                        2. The problem is spreading - it must be contained - vs. 5

                        3. The problem is sensitive - vs. 10 (quick raw flesh)

            B. The Action

                        1. Interrogation - find out how long it has been going on; research the problem

                        2. Interpretation - if it is deeper than the skin; make a judgment call ON THE SPOT

                        3. Information - he shall pronounce him unclean; the priest makes that news known

                        4. Isolation - then the priest shall shut him up seven days vs. 4

Conclusion: Church discipline is a necessity.  God has a maintenance program that cannot be improved on.  In order to have God's blessings, the church most be run God's way!