Deuteronomy Chapter 6
The reason for God’s laws and commandments is given in the last verse of this chapter. God gave us His commandments for our own good. What would our world be like if there were no rules or laws? We certainly have gotten a taste of that here in the U.S. in the past few years. God knew that the depravity of mankind would only lead to disaster without His laws. But more importantly the law was given as guardrails for righteous living. The Israelites were rescued by God from Egypt with a promise that He would deliver them to a promised land. What God desired was a people who would believe in Him only and to be loyal to Him. They would follow His commandments, and it would be counted to them as righteousness. When they sinned, God had established a sacrificial system to restore their relationship with God.
All of this was pointing to one special event. The event when Jesus Christ would become the ultimate sacrifice, and all those who place their faith in Him will experience forgiveness of sins and God’s seal of righteousness stamped on their life.
Let's Reflect
1. The new generation could not use the excuse that they had not heard God’s commandments. Moses said he was commanded by God to rehearse them with this new generation. When did Moses do this?
2. What 4 blessings awaited the new generation of Israel if they kept God’s commandments and feared (respected) Him?
3. The words of God were so important that Moses told the people exactly how they were to learn and know God’s instructions. What did Moses tell them to do to really know God’s words?
4. In verses 10 and 11 what other things would the Israelites obtain besides the land when they stepped across the Jordan River?
5. What warning did God give to the Israelites when they came in contact with the inhabitants of the promised land?
6. What story, event of the old covenant, were the Israelites told to repeat to their children and grandchildren to help them understand why there were commandments and laws God expected them to follow?
7, What story, event of the new covenant, should we tell our children and grandchildren when they ask why we are a disciple of Jesus Christ?
