Deuteronomy 23:1-25

 

Light shining from heaven and Deuteronomy 23:14 quoted

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, following is a link to a YouTube video:
  • "When You Walk Among Us" (Deuteronomy 23): Link

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