Deuteronomy 21:1-23
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...