Rev. Joel Heckmann, pastor at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Okarche, OK, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 16:18-17:7.
The LORD tells His people of the importance of justice, which is found in His Word. Judges and officers in Israel must pursue such justice without partiality or desire for a bribe. Because justice is bound up in the LORD’s Word, idolatry perverts justice. Therefore, the people must not engage in the idolatrous practices of the Canaanites nor think that they can sacrifice however they want. Whenever idolatry is found among the people of Israel, careful investigation must take place so that any idolatry can be purged from their midst. The death penalty prescribed is a reminder of the seriousness of idolatry and all sin. The LORD shows mercy and justice to us by placing our sin upon His Son Jesus and putting Him to death in our place.
“The Law of God is Good and Wise” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Deuteronomy. Though Moses’ lengthy sermons in Deuteronomy may be tempting to skip, this influential book is essential reading for Christians. As Moses strengthened Israel on the plains of Moab before the people entered the Promised Land, so the book of Deuteronomy still strengthens the Church as we prepare to enter the Resurrection with Christ, the Prophet greater than Moses.
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