Life Matters - Deuteronomy 19:1-22:8
from Faithful to the End Hosted by Graceway Church of Michiana
Once again Moses develops the command "do not murder" with specific instructions for the people as they prepare to go into the land. The overarching theme of these instructions is the sacredness of life - Moses calls Israel to honor life. This is evidenced in a variety of ways, including refuge cities, witnesses in court, rules for war, purifying Israel when there is an unsolved murder, and not leaving a criminal exposed overnight. One of the more unusual instructions is not to move the boundary markers that have been established (19:14). This specific instruction addresses one of the primary points of contention and war among humanity down through history - the fight over territory, where land ends and a neighbor's land begins. Throughout this section, Moses clearly makes the point that Yahweh cares about life, even the lives of animals both domestic and wild animals, as well as trees! God cares about the lives of all he has created. We too must contemplate the value of life and honor it as sacred. Life is sacred, as believers, we must live that truth. Deuteronomy is one of the most significant books in our OT, but one that is often not addressed. Throughout Deuteronomy, Moses will challenge Israel over and over again, to hear the word of Yahweh, and then, to heed it in obedience. Deuteronomy displays the character and attributes of Yahweh in numerous ways, it especially emphasizes the love of Yahweh poured out on Israel. Deuteronomy ultimately sets a choice before us, a choice to prioritize and follow Yahweh, to be right with him through Jesus alone.
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