The book of Deuteronomy retells the stories found in Exodus, Leviticus, and Numbers. The book is the last of the Pentateuch authored by Moses. In chapter 1 Moses reviews the journey of the Israelites from Horeb. Why repeat all of the stories again? How does this profit the people? I think it was absolutely necessary for the people to remember God’s faithfulness and their consistent failure. If the people of Israel were not reminded of where God had brought them from would they have been more inclined to stray from Him? The story of the peoples lack of faith and rebellion before the 40 years in the wilderness must have been a vivid reminder to obey God. The importance of obeying God in all areas of life has been repeated to me many times today. Continue Reading…
Obedience an expression of love in Deuteronomy 1 and 2
I think that I’ve fallen for you.
Having an authority figure in life will bring a multitude of thoughts and emotions to different people. The variety of these figures are endless: police officers, parents, teachers, employers, or siblings. What makes us respect someone in authority over us? An ability to administer punishment is one reason we can tolerate authority because it means that our lack of submission results in a loss for us. I remember growing up I respected my father’s authority mostly because of an illogical fear I felt. I would constantly remember my interactions with him and I would always be on the defensive in any conversation. The fear of my father developed because I was afraid of making a wrong move that would result in his anger. Punishment and fear have permeated the essence of what we think about authority. Why has this permeation happened? Is there a better way to attain authority? Continue Reading…
