What does the Bible say about leaven?
Bible Topic · WEB
The Bible uses leaven both as a picture of sin's pervasive corrupting power and, in one parable, of God's kingdom quietly spreading through the world. Israel removed leaven during Passover, remembering redemption from Egypt and learning that fellowship with God requires holiness (Exodus 12:15-20; Exodus 34:25). Paul applies this to the church, warning that tolerated sin spreads and calling believers to live as an unleavened people because Christ, our Passover Lamb, has been sacrificed (1 Corinthians 5:6). Yet Jesus says the kingdom is like leaven working through dough (Matthew 13:33), emphasizing its hidden but certain growth. The sacrificial laws also show that symbols must be read in context, since leaven could sometimes accompany offerings (Leviticus 7:13; 23:17).
Study outline
Curated topical outlines from classic public-domain study works.
Torrey's New Topical Textbook
- Used in making bread Hosea 7:4
- Diffusive properties of 1 Corinthians 5:6
- Forbidden
- During the feast of the passover Exodus 12:15-20
- To be offered with blood Exodus 34:25
- To be offered, &c with meat offerings which were burned Leviticus 2:11; Leviticus 10:12
- Used with thank offerings Leviticus 7:13; Amos 4:5
- First fruits of wheat offered with Leviticus 23:17
- Illustrative of
- The rapid spread of the gospel Matthew 13:33; Luke 13:21
- Doctrines of Pharisees, &c Matthew 16:6; Matthew 16:12
- Ungodly professors 1 Corinthians 5:6; 1 Corinthians 5:7
- False teachers Galatians 5:8; Galatians 5:9
- Malice and wickedness 1 Corinthians 5:8
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