As God’s national witness, the physical health and wealth of the children of Israel were very closely tied to their obedience to God. Leviticus 13 tells us that His priests could recognize the unclean, and thus who were displeasing to Him. The New Testament teaches of the universal priesthood of believers. Thus, we have the responsibility to recognize sin correctly.

1. Need to diagnose (Lev 13:1-3): When there are symptoms of spiritual unwellness in us, are we willing to be honest or will we try to hide from being examined? Sin does not happen overnight. Usually symptoms appear earlier. Have we noticed those symptoms in our own life? The things we live for or pursue after reflect our spiritual condition. We have the responsibility to be our brother’s keeper. We must be interested in both our own and our brother’s spiritual well-being. Our spiritual health can impact the family of Christ.

2. Carefulness in diagnosing (Lev 13:4-8): The priest must not rush into diagnosing. And he must not diagnose based on his own feelings. A person who is pronounced clean cannot take for granted that he is totally clean. If his skin disease advances, he must be honest to see the priest and be examined again. Diagnosing the symptoms requires spiritual insight. When we diagnose spiritual symptoms, it requires patience and careful examination to find out what is happening first, and wisdom to know what to look out for and how to evaluate particular issues. Knowledge comes with responsibility. Do not be complacent.

3. Criteria in diagnosing (Lev 13:9-42): God gave the priests the spiritual criteria to conclude if it was leprosy based on the different symptoms. The duty of the priest was to match what they see to God’s description. Our spiritual discernment must be grounded by God’s Word. Diagnosing a sin is based on the authority of God’s truth. We cannot diagnose rightly if we do not know His Word. If we arrive at conclusions based on our own opinions, we will hurt others. Standing on the authority of God’s Word helps us conclude accurately and justly with conviction.

4. Result of diagnosing (Lev 13:43-46): The believer has to declare his uncleanliness without downplaying it. He has to be removed from the children of Israel to protect God’s purity. In our church today, sin involves discipline for the protection of the flock and vindication of God’s holiness. If sin is not repented of, and if nothing is done with it, it undermines the glory and righteousness of God.

5. Impartiality in diagnosing (Lev 13:47-59): Under the authority of God’s Word, everyone is equal. Thus, there is impartiality in diagnosing. Take proper steps to intervene and to stop sin. God’s abiding presence with His people depends on their holiness and cleanness. God cannot bless if there are known sins in your life.