Archive for 2016
Deuteronomy 18 – Feasts, How to Read Deuteronomy, and Living Separately
Traditional Jewish feasts are outlined, and their new significance to Christians are discussed. Some guidance on how to read the book of Deuteronomy is provided. It must be read carefully and its precepts dutifully followed. We are encouraged to catechise and be catechised in order to effectively serve the Lord. Just as the Hebrews lived…
Read MoreDeuteronomy 17 – Kosher Laws, Tithes, and Debt
The Hebrews were called to grieve differently and eat differently as a reminder that they were a people set apart for the Lord. Bacon is not inherently sinful to eat, but it was set aside as something the Lord expected His people not to eat. Christ did not abolish the ritual kosher laws for the…
Read MoreDeuteronomy 16 – Innocent Blood and Apostates
The eating of innocent blood is forbidden. These temple practices are emphasized for correct worship of God but also a guidance even in our lives to recognize the sacredness of life designed by God. The Israelites (and we) are warned against apostates who try to lead us away from the Lord and from the Torah,…
Read MoreDeuteronomy 15 – One Place of Worship
The Israelites are told to destroy the places of worship of rival religions. This is because their existence is a temptation to idolatry, one to which many Hebrews would eventually give in. There is one God, separate from all other religious influences. Worship of the Lord is done in one central location set aside by…
Read MoreDeuteronomy 14 – Mercy
The Canaanites will be defeated due to their wickedness. Israel’s righteousness or strength will have nothing to do with it, however, as Israel has frequently disobeyed the Lord through their stubbornness. But God is merciful and gracious. This is just as true in the church today as in ancient Israel. If we repent and be…
Read MoreAnnouncing Esther
Announcing Our Spring Scripture Study: Lessons from the Book of Esther In five sessions, beginning the week of April 12 So why should we study this curious book? And why now? This small book has been the subject of controversy since ancient times. It nearly didn’t make it into the Jewish canon of the…
Read MoreDeuteronomy 13 – Preparing for a Life of Abundance
The Canaanites would be destroyed gradually, as a test of sustained faith. They were not to take the gold and treasure of the Canaanites because it was full of temptations to idolatry. The meaning of the word “abomination” is briefly discussed. The repetition of Moses’ exhortations throughout this text are defended–Moses seeks in this final…
Read MoreLenten Pitfalls
Dear Friends, Here we are at the threshold of another Lent, and I’d like to share a few thoughts on making this Lent more profitable. In the past we have put out a general review, “A Few Thoughts on Making a Good Lent”, which is available to anyone who asks us. Today, however, I would…
Read MoreDeuteronomy 12 – Call to Destroy the Canaanites
The Hebrews are called to completely destroy their rivals in Canaan–man, woman, child, and artifacts of worship. This is a difficult passage to accept. However, God explicitly wants to protect His people from the temptation of idolatry that would be constant if the Hebrews lived among Canaanite religion (The Hebrews would later fall prey to…
Read MoreDeuteronomy 11 – Comprehensive Devotion to God
All of our actions are meant to be put into the effort of loving devotion to God–teaching our children constantly and binding His Word in our heart. God is loyal to His people, and He insists that we be loyal to Him. Download MP3 (20:49; 11 MB)
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