Truth 101 Class

  Deuteronomy 27:1-10 begin the final section of the book. After having reviewed the Law in preparation for His people to enter the Promised Land, God calls them to renew the covenant by committing to obey the law, writing the law on stones at Mount Ebal, and offering burnt and peace offerings to the LORD on an altar of uncut stones.  Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 1-4 & 8 What are some benefits of writing the words of God's law on stone? [NOTE: Consider also that the words of God's law are written on our hearts (see Psalm 40:8; Jeremiah 31:33) ] Verses 5-7 Since burnt and peace offerings represent total commitment and joyful fellowship with the LORD, what can I offer Him today to express my commitment and joy? Verses 9-10 Why is obedience to the LORD essential for the people of God?

  Deuteronomy 26:1-19 conclude the detailed review of the Law (chapters 5-26), summarized by love for God through the offering of firstfruits and love for others through tithes given to the Levite, sojourner, orphan, and widow. This chapter ends with a reaffirmation of Israel's covenant with God; His people, holy and set apart as His treasured possession, are to keep all His commandments. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 1-4 When I experience the fulfillment of God's promises in my life, what is my response? Verses 5-11 These verses recount Israel's history, beginning with Jacob the Aramean/Syrian (see Genesis 28) and recalling how God made them a great nation in Egypt despite hardship.  In what ways has God been at work in my life through difficult circumstances? Verses 12-15 How can my actions and heart reflect genuine love for others, especially those in need? Verses 16-19 How does my life demonstrate m...

  Deuteronomy 25:11-19 give instructions on protecting dignity, fairness, using honest weights and measures, and executing justice against the Amalekites. The judgment against the Amalekites, beginning with their initial attack in Exodus 17:8-16, unfolded over a long period, allowing them time to turn from their wicked ways. However, their continued wickedness ultimately led to their destruction in 1 Samuel 15. The final biblical mention of the Amalekites appears with Haman in the Book of Esther. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 11-16 How can I grow in my integrity and in showing respect for the dignity of others? Verses 17-19 What steps might I need to take to turn away from any long-standing or recurring sins in my life? For music inspired by this Scripture passage, following is a link to a YouTube video: "Let My Weights Be True" (Deuteronomy 25): Link

  Deuteronomy 25:1-10 give instructions on humane justice, considerate treatment of animals, and the practice of levirate marriage to preserve family lineage. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 1-3 How does God show mercy and compassion to me, even when I am guilty? Verse 4 The apostle Paul applied this verse in 1 Corinthians 9:9 and 1 Timothy 5:18 to share with those who labor in ministry.  In what ways might we enjoy the fruit of our labors for the Kingdom of God? Verses 5-10 Levirate marriage was beautifully applied in Ruth 4:1-17 but legalistically used by the Sadducees to test Jesus in Matthew 22:24, Mark 12:19, and Luke 20:28.  How do I view God's laws, and how does that affect the way I apply them in my life?

  Deuteronomy 24:1-22 provide instructions on marriage and remarriage, loan pledges, leprosy, personal responsibility, and care for the needy, particularly sojourners, orphans, and widows. Israel is to act with compassion, remembering that they were once slaves redeemed by God. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 1-5 In Matthew 19:8, Jesus said " Because of your hardness of heart Moses allowed you to divorce your wives, but from the beginning it was not so ."  In what areas of my life might a hardened heart keep me from following God's better plan? Verses 6-22 How do these laws reveal God's heart for the poor and needy? How might remembering that God redeemed me from slavery to sin move me to show greater compassion towards others? For music inspired by this Scripture passage, following is a link to a YouTube video: "Because I Remember" (Deuteronomy 24): Link

  Deuteronomy 23:1-25 emphasize:  Holiness - Those who enter the assembly of the LORD must not be mutilated, illegitimate, or from enemy nations.  Purity is also required within the camp. Compassion - Escaped slaves are to be given refuge and fellow Israelites are not to be charged interest on loans. Integrity - Abominable practices are to be avoided, vows to God are to be fulfilled, and greed is to be resisted, especially when benefitting from a neighbor's property. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 1-14 What do these laws reveal about God's holiness and the requirements for entering His presence? [NOTE: Consider God's compassion for the outcast (e.g., Isaiah 56:1-8) and the cleansing we receive through Jesus (e.g., 1 John 1:7) ] Verses 15-25 How might these laws guide me in practicing compassion and integrity in my personal life and within my community? For music inspired by this Scripture passage, follo...

  Deuteronomy 22:1-30 provide instructions that emphasize love for neighbor, community responsibility, and moral integrity. Also emphasized is the importance of being set apart by honoring God's created distinctions. And the sexual morality laws particularly relate to the seventh (" You shall not commit adultery ") and tenth (" You shall not covet ") commandments. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 1-4 Verses 1, 3, and 4 repeat the instruction to not "ignore" helping a neighbor. In what ways do I live out the command to love my neighbor?  Verses 5-11 How well does my life reflect that I am set apart for God? Verse 12 Numbers 15:39 says " And you shall have the tassel, that you may look upon it and remember all the commandments of the LORD and do them. " Is there anything I wear that helps to remind me to obey the LORD? Verses 13-30 What is my reaction to how far our culture has...

  Deuteronomy 21:1-23 provide instructions related to the fifth (" Honor your father and your mother "), sixth (" You shall not murder "), and seventh (" You shall not commit adultery ") commandments.  These include atonement for unsolved murders, regulations for marrying female captives, inheritance rights, and punishment for rebellious sons. This passage concludes with guidelines for executing those sentenced to death by hanging on a tree. This foreshadows Christ, who "redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us--for ... cursed is everyone who is hanged on a tree” (Galatians 3:13). Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 1-9 What does the atonement sacrifice demonstrate to me? Verses 10-14 How does God's laws reflect His care for human dignity and the value He places on each person? Verses 15-17 What can I learn from moments when I have chosen personal preference o...

  Deuteronomy 20:1-20, despite giving instructions about warfare, reveal a God who cares.  God encouraged Israel not to be afraid, promised victory, allowed exceptions from battle, offered peace to distant cities, and prohibited cutting down trees during sieges.  Even the destruction of Canaanite cities was meant to protect Israel against idolatry.  Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 1-4 How can I trust God and overcome fear in the battles I face today? Verses 5-9 What distractions, priorities, or fears might hinder my service to the LORD? Verses 10-18 What happens when people reject the peace that God offers? Verses 19-20 God promised Israel blessings from trees they did not plant (see Deuteronomy 6:11), and these verses show His care in preserving them.  Similarly, how has my past obedience to God helped to bring lasting blessings in my life? For music inspired by this Scripture passage, followi...

  Deuteronomy 19:1-21 provide instructions that relate to three of the Ten Commandments: The establishment of cities of refuge for those who commit unintentional manslaughter relates to the sixth commandment (" You shall not murder "), ensuring that only true murderers are punished.  The instruction to respect property boundaries aligns with the eighth commandment (" You shall not steal "), emphasizing the importance of honoring each person's inherited land and possessions.  The requirement for multiple witnesses in legal cases, along with the punishment for false testimony, reinforces the ninth commandment (" You shall not bear false witness "), upholding truth and justice in the legal system. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 1-13 What does the setting apart of cities of refuge reveal about God?  Verse 14 What attitudes or actions should I guard against to avoid taking what rightfully...

  Deuteronomy 18:1-22 give instructions showing how God provides for the Levites, for He is their inheritance; warn against adopting the detestable Canaanite practices linked to the demonic spiritual realm; and point to the coming of Christ as the Prophet whose words must be obeyed [NOTE: For background regarding God at Horeb/Sinai, see Exodus 20:18-21 ] Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 1-8 How well do I trust the LORD to provide for my needs, recognizing that He is my portion and inheritance? Verses 9-14 What modern-day occult practices should believers guard against, and how can we remain faithful to God's commands? Verses 15-22 The Prophet mentioned in these verses points to Jesus, as seen in New Testament passages like John 6:14 and Acts 3:19-26 & 7:37. What does this reveal to me about Jesus?  For music inspired by Deuteronomy 18:18-19 for Scripture memorization, following is a link to a YouTube video...

  Deuteronomy 17:1-20 provides instructions for protecting faithful worship, handling difficult legal cases through Levitical priests or judges, and establishing requirements for kingship. These guidelines for kingship were given long before Israel requested a king in 1 Samuel 8, demonstrating God's foresight. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 1-13 What are some things I can do to help "purge the evil" (vv. 7 & 12) from my life? Verses 14-20 How do God's requirements for leadership contrast with the world's view of leadership today?

  Deuteronomy 16:13-22 provide instructions regarding the Feast of Booths/Tabernacles/Ingathering ( see also Leviticus 23:33-43 ), appearing before the LORD, administration of justice, and proper worship practices. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 13-15 In what ways does the Feast of Booths (Tabernacles) point forward to God's eternal dwelling with His people in joy and rest? Verses 16-17 God's people are not to come before Him empty-handed but are to give what we are able, according to His blessings. What should I do at times when I might feel like I have little or nothing to offer the LORD? Verses 18-20 How does God feel about justice? And how should this shape our actions toward others? Verses 21-22 What practices from the world around us might negatively impact our worship of God?

  Deuteronomy 16:1-12 provide instructions on: The Feast of Unleavened Bread/Passover (vv.1-8) - see also Exodus 12:1-13:16 The Feast of Weeks/Pentecost (vv.9-12) - see also Leviticus 23:15-22 Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 1-8 In what ways does Passover point to Jesus, our Passover Lamb (see John 1:29; 1 Peter 1:18-19)? Verses 9-12 In what ways does Pentecost point to the gift of the Holy Spirit (see Acts 2:1-41)?

  Deuteronomy 15:12-23 provide instructions on: The release of bondservants (vv.12-18) - see also Exodus 21:1-6; Leviticus 25:39-46 The offering first-born animals (vv.19-23) - see also Exodus 13:1-2 Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 12-18 How can remembering God's example of graciousness and redemption affect how I treat others? Why should we choose to be bondservants of the LORD forever? Verses 19-23 In what areas might I be holding back from giving God my first or best?

  Deuteronomy 15:1-11 instruct Israel to cancel debts every seven years. This Sabbatical year proclaims the LORD's release and blessings. Obedience to the LORD would enable Israel to care for their poor and avoid dependence on other nations. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 1-6 Israel was instructed to cancel financial debts, and our debts due to sin have been cancelled through Christ's work on the cross. What does this reveal to me about our LORD? Verses 7-11 Jesus also said the poor will always be among us ( Matthew 26:11; Mark 14:7; John 12:8 ). What do verses 7-11 teach us about having a heart of compassion toward the poor?

  Deuteronomy 14:22-29 provide instructions on tithing, similar to Leviticus 27:30-33 or Numbers 18:21-29. This passage connects tithing to fearing the LORD, rejoicing, and blessing others. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 22-23 What does tithing teach me about worship or fearing the LORD? Verses 24-27 Verse 26 encourages rejoicing, and 2 Corinthians 9:7 says God loves a cheerful giver. How can I be joyful in giving? Verses 28-29 In what ways am I using the blessings God has given me to help and care for others in need?

  Deuteronomy 14:1-21 distinguishes between clean and unclean animals, similar to Leviticus 11. God's people are to live in holiness, set apart and different from pagan nations both in diet and practice. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 1-2 How should knowing that I am also adopted, set apart, chosen, and treasured by God impact the way I live? Verses 3-21 How do Peter's experiences in Acts 10-11 deepen my understanding of God's laws about clean and unclean? (Ex: "Do not call something unclean if God has made it clean" (Acts 10:15b) or "God has shown me that I should not call anyone impure or unclean" (Acts 10:28b))

  Deuteronomy 13 warns against being led astray to follow other gods by false prophets or leaders (vv. 1-5), close relations like family and friends (vv. 6-11), or the surrounding society (vv. 12-18). Several themes are also repeated: Warnings not to go after gods we have not KNOWN (vv. 2, 6, 13) Exhortations to love God, walk in His ways, fear God, keep His commandments, obey Him, serve Him, and hold fast to Him (vv. 13:3-4; 10:12-13, 20) Commands to purge evil from our midst (vv.13:5, 17:7, 19:19, 21:21, 22:21, 24:7, and 1 Cor 5:13) Emphasis on doing what is right in the sight of the LORD rather than what is right in our own eyes (vv. 13:18, 12:8,25,28)  Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 1-5 How can we guard against being led astray by false prophets? Verses 6-11 Why is the punishment so severe for leading others astray, even for close relatives and friends? Verses 12-18 How can I stand firm in my faith when ...

  Deuteronomy 12:15-32 continue detailing God's instructions regarding worship. These verses distinguish between offerings to be made at the place the LORD chooses versus animals intended for food within the towns. This passage highlights the sanctity of blood and closes with warnings against serving pagan gods. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 15-28 How do the instructions regarding blood (vv. 16, 23-25, 27) connect to what Christ accomplished on the cross?  [NOTE:  Leviticus 17:11 says "For the life of the flesh is in the blood, and I have given it for you on the altar to make atonement for your souls, for it is the blood that makes atonement by the life."] What do the instructions regarding the Levite (vv. 18-19 and 12) indicate about my part in God's ministry? How do these verses show that God's desire is for all to "go well with you" (vv. 25 & 28) ? Verses 29-32 What warning do...

  Deuteronomy 12:1-14 begin detailing God's statutes and rules for His people, giving instructions regarding worship. Chapters 12-16 primarily focus on God, similar to the first four commandments, while chapters 17-26 focus more on others, similar to the last six commandments. Thus, this passage relates to the first four commandments (see Exodus 20:3-8 or Deuteronomy 5:7-12): You shall have no other gods before me. You shall not make for yourself a carved image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is on the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth. You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain. Observe the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 1-4 In these verses, Israel is instructed to destroy the pagan places of worship and to avoid worshipping God in the way the Canaanites worshipped their idols. What worldly influences might hinder our ...

  Deuteronomy 11:18-32 conclude the general exhortations (chapters 5-11) and  lead into details of the law (chapters 12-26). The people are exhorted to integrate God's word into every aspect of their lives, teach it to their children, obey His commands, love the LORD, walk in His ways, and hold fast to Him. Blessings with obedience and curses with disobedience are introduced. Details were given later in chapters 27-28, which were read after taking possession of the Land (see Joshua 8:30-35). Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 18-25 What are some practical ways we can integrate God's word into every aspect of our lives? Verses 26-32 Mount Gerizim and Mount Ebal were visible reminders of the blessings with obedience and curses with disobedience.  What visible reminders do I have or can put into place to motivate obedience to the LORD? Verse 28 warns against turning to "other gods that you have not known,"...

  Deuteronomy 11:1-17 continue to remind Israel of their covenant responsibilities. Verses 1-7 emphasize the LORD's mighty power and discipline, while verses 8-15 highlight His blessings in the Land with obedience. Verses 16-17 close with a warning of drought and barrenness if they turn to other gods. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 1-7 Moses reminds the people of God's disciplinary actions against Egypt (Exodus 7-14) and against Dathan and Abiram (Numbers 16). How might reflecting on God's past discipline in my own life motivate greater commitment to loving Him and keeping His commandments? Verses 8-15 In what ways have I experienced God's blessings through obedience to the LORD? Verses 16-17 In what ways might our hearts be deceived when we disobey?

  Deuteronomy 10:12-22 review Israel's requirements in the re-established covenant.  While circumcision is a sign of the covenant, the emphasis is on the circumcision of the heart . Israel is privileged to be in a covenant relationship with the Creator, the God of gods, the Lord of lords, who is great, mighty, awesome, impartial, just, loving, and praiseworthy. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 12-13 How should God's people live? (Note the verbs used: fear, walk, love, serve, keep .) Verses 14-16 God established circumcision as the sign of the covenant (see Genesis 17:9-14).  However, like verses 14-16, Romans 2:25-29 emphasize the circumcision of the heart. What does "circumcision is a matter of the heart" mean for me? Verses 17-22 What do these verses reveal about my covenant-keeping LORD? For music reflecting this Scripture passage, following is a link to a YouTube video: "We Choose the Fear o...

  Deuteronomy 10:1-11 recount God's answers to Moses' prayer in chapter 9.  God re-establishes the covenant by writing the commandments on stone tablets as before. In keeping with His promise, Aaron's descendants remain as High Priests, and the LORD continues to be the Levites' inheritance.  Relenting from destroying Israel, God allows them to proceed to the Promise Land. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 1-5 What does the re-establishment of the covenant show me about the LORD? Verses 6-9 1 Peter 2:9 says, " But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light. " How can I be most effective in my calling as a "priest" serving the LORD? Verses 10-11 In what ways has God also given me a new start, recovering from past failures?

  Deuteronomy 9:13-29 contain Moses' crucial intercession to prevent Israel's destruction due to God's wrath over their sin with the golden calf. These verses also include other examples of Israel's stubborn rebellion: Teberah (Numbers 11:1-3): Complaints that led to the fire of the LORD burning among them Massah (Exodus 17:1-7): Testing the LORD with quarrels and grumbling about water Kibroth-hattaavah (Numbers 11:4-34): Food cravings and greed over the quail God provided Kadesh-barnea (Numbers 13-14): Rebellion against entering the Promised Land. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 13-14 How does sin affect my relationship with God? Verses 15-21 These verses describe Moses' reaction to Israel's rebellion against the LORD.  How do I respond when I see sin within the Church? Verses 22-24 What can I learn from my own history of rebellion against God? Verses 25-29 Following Moses' example, how...

  Deuteronomy 9:1-12 emphasize that it is God's faithfulness to the covenant and His righteousness in punishing the wicked that will enable Israel to defeat the mighty nations in the Promised Land.  Israel is warned against a proud heart and reminded of their stubborn rebellion from the time they left Egypt to now. Even at Horeb or Mount Sinai, when God was giving them the Commandments, they had made the graven image of a golden calf (ref. Exodus 32).  Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 1-3 These verses say "today" or "now" is the time when the long-awaited promise of the Land is to be fulfilled. What should I remember when facing something I have long anticipated, know will change my life, but have substantial concerns about? Verses 4-6 These verses remind Israel three times that they are being given the Land NOT because of their righteousness.  How might this also be a warning to me about having...

  Deuteronomy 8:11-20 warn against pride and forgetting the LORD in times of prosperity.  Instead, the people are to remember that God delivers, protects, and provides. They are again urged to remain obedient and not follow other gods. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 11-18 What are some ways I can avoid lifting my heart up in pride and instead remember the LORD? Verses 19-20 Matthew 6:24 warns, "No one can serve two masters...You cannot serve God and money."  What are some consequences when wealth becomes an idol?

  Deuteronomy 8:1-10 remind God's people to observe the commandments and fear the LORD both in the desolation of the wilderness as well as in the abundance of the Promised Land. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 1-5 What are some reasons why God might allow us to go through difficult "wilderness experiences" in our lives? Jesus quoted verse 3 when responding to the devil's temptation in the wilderness (ref. Matthew 4:4 and Luke 4:4).  What does it mean for me to not live by bread alone but by the word of God?  Verses 6-10 Why is it important to keep God's commandments, walk in His ways, and fear Him not only during times of hardship but also abundance? For music that includes Deuteronomy 8:3 quoted in the Gospel of Matthew, following is a link to a YouTube video: "Seek Ye First" by Maranatha! Music: Link

  Deuteronomy 7:12-26 remind Israel of the blessings of obedience and keeping the covenant. These verses also emphasize that remembering who God is and what He has done in the past can help overcome fears. This passage closes with strong language regarding idols, using terms like abomination, detest, abhor, and destruction. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 12-16 What do these verses show about blessings and fruitfulness? Verses 17-24 What can help me to overcome my fears? Verses 25-26 Given the strong warnings against idols in these verses, is there anything I should change or address in my views or actions regarding idols? For music inspired by this Scripture passage, following is a link to a YouTube video: "Do Not Be Terrified By Them" (Deuteronomy 7:21): Link

  Deuteronomy 7:1-11 describe the judgment for the seven pagan nations currently occupying the Promised Land. Israel is also reminded that they are a chosen people to be holy and set apart for God. Just as God is faithful to keep His covenant with them, His people are to keep God's commandments, statutes, and rules. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage: Verses 1-5 The people of God were assured of victory even though the nations occupying the Land were "more numerous and mightier" than they.  What gives me assurance of victory whenever faced with many major challenges in my life? Verses 6-11 What do these verses show me about God choosing me? God's people are His "treasured possession."  What type of treasure might I most identify with? Some examples from Scripture include: Precious stones in the ephod, such as emerald, sapphire, and diamond, like leaders representing God's people (ref. Exodus 28:15...