The Does and Don'ts of God (Deuteronomy 27: 1-26)

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Episode Notes

Key Themes:

1. Obedience to God's Commandments:
   • The chapter emphasizes the importance of keeping all of God's commandments as the Israelites prepare to enter the Promised Land.
   • Moses, along with the elders, instructs the people to set up large stones and inscribe the law on them as a constant reminder of God's expectations.
2. Significance of Mount Gerizim and Mount Ebal:
   • These mountains serve as geographical markers where blessings and curses were to be proclaimed.
   • The division of tribes between the two mountains underscores the consequences of obedience and disobedience.
3. Public Affirmation of Commitment:
   • The Israelites are instructed to build an altar with uncut stones and offer sacrifices, symbolizing their renewed commitment to God's covenant.
   • This public ceremony serves as a declaration to themselves and surrounding nations of their dedication to God's law.
4. Curses for Disobedience:
   • Verses 15-26 list specific curses for various sins, emphasizing the seriousness of disobedience.
   • These curses address idolatry, dishonesty, injustice, and various forms of immorality, highlighting the comprehensive nature of God's law.

Key Verses:

• Deuteronomy 27:1: "Now Moses and the elders of Israel commanded the people: ‘Keep all these commands that I give you today.’"
• Deuteronomy 27:8: "And you shall write very clearly all the words of this law on these stones you have set up."
• Deuteronomy 27:26: "Cursed is anyone who does not uphold the words of this law by carrying them out. And all the people shall say, 'Amen.'"

Reflection Questions:

1. How do the instructions given by Moses to the Israelites reflect the importance of obedience in your own life?
2. What modern parallels can you draw from the setting up of memorial stones with God's laws inscribed on them?
3. How does understanding the significance of the blessings and curses in Deuteronomy 27 help you appreciate the consequences of your own actions?

As you listen to this episode, think about how these ancient principles can be applied to our contemporary lives. God's instructions to the Israelites serve as a timeless reminder of the importance of obedience, integrity, and commitment to His commandments.

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• 24:17 (Cont.) The Does and Don'ts of God (Deuteronomy 27: 1-26)

Transcript

The Doe’s and Don’ts of God.  (Deuteronomy 27: 1-26)

Transcript.

Introduction

When we were children, our parents gave us a list of do's and don'ts. Remember those moments? Perhaps some of them still echo in our minds today. 

When we were in school, our teachers provided us with a similar list of do's and don'ts.

After school, and college or university we entering the workplace and, our employers handed us their own sets of guidelines. 

Later maybe some of you became parents and the cycle continues as you now create lists of do's and don'ts for your children. 

This cycle is continuous and as the saying going it’s as old as Moses himself.

This is because Moses, the leader who delivered the Israelites from Egypt, also provided a list of do's and don'ts to the Nation of Israel before they entered the promised land.

When we think of Moses and lists, the Ten Commandments is likely to be the first thing that come to mind.

However, that's not the only list he gave. One of the most famous lists can be found at the end of Deuteronomy, spanning chapters 27 and 28. Here, Moses outlines a series of do's and don'ts. He starts with the do's, then transitions to the don'ts at the end of the chapter.

Today, we will begin our exploration of this section by focusing on chapter 27. This chapter is easily divided into two parts: things to do and things not to do. So, let's dive into Deuteronomy 27 in todays episode…..

If you look at the first verse of Deuteronomy 27, you’ll notice it begins with “Now Moses.” This might strike you as odd because, if Moses is the author, why would he refer to himself in the third person?

This detail is significant as it marks a division in the book. Similar phrasing appears in Deuteronomy 5:1 and these instances are the reasons most suggest that the book consists of a series of sermons. 

One of these sermons spans from chapter 5 to chapter 26, focusing heavily on the Ten Commandments. Chapter 27, then, marks the beginning of the next sermon.

Before we delve into the passage, it's important to understand its context. The traditional view, that I ascribe too is that Deuteronomy consists of five sermons, and I lean heavily towards this perspective.

Another key aspect to consider is the geography mentioned in this chapter. The Israelites are not yet in the Promised Land. Moses, speaking from the east side of the Jordan River, provides instructions for when they enter the land. Specifically, he mentions the area around Shechem, which lies near the centre of Israel. Shechem is flanked by Mount Gerizim to the south and Mount Ebal to the north. Moses uses these geographical landmarks as props for his instructions.

So, let's begin with the first verse of Deuteronomy 27:

"Now Moses and the elders of Israel commanded the people: ‘Keep all these commands that I give you today.

At this point, the instruction is simple: when you enter Israel, keep all the commandments. The inclusion of the elders here emphasizes their leadership role. Moses as we know will die shortly so he will not be with the Israelites when they enter the land, so the elders will carry out these instructions.

Moving on to verse 2:

When you have crossed the Jordan into the land the Lord your God is giving you, set up some large stones and coat them with plaster.

(Deuteronomy 27: 2)

Moses instructs the Israelites to set up large stones and whitewash them as a memorial. These stones will serve as a visible and lasting reminder of God's commandments. This practice of inscribing laws on stones was common in Egypt, so the Israelites would have been familiar with it. The whitewash was meant to make the text stand out clearly. 

Verse 3 says, 

Write on them all the words of this law when you have crossed over to enter the land the Lord your God is giving you, a land flowing with milk and honey, just as the Lord, the God of your ancestors, promised you.

(Deuteronomy 27: 3)

But what does it mean to write "all the words of this law"? Some suggest it refers only to the Ten Commandments, while others believe it includes the legal sections of the law.

Josephus, the Jewish historian from the first century, believed it included the blessings and curses found in chapters 27 and 28.

Another view is that it could be the salient parts of the law reiterated in Deuteronomy. Given these differing opinions, it's uncertain exactly what was written. However, considering the Egyptian custom of inscribing extensive texts on monuments, it's plausible that they wrote a substantial portion, if not the entirety, of the book of Deuteronomy.

The purpose of writing the law on stones was because it was to serve as a constant reminder to the Israelites to keep God's commandments. It was also a declaration to the surrounding nations that the Mosaic Law was Israel's standard of faith and practice, akin to their national constitution.

Verses 4 and 5 specify the location for this event:

And when you have crossed the Jordan, set up these stones on Mount Ebal, as I command you today, and coat them with plaster. Build there an altar to the Lord your God, an altar of stones. Do not use any iron tool on them.

(Deuteronomy 27: 4-5)

Shechem, was located 35 miles north of Jerusalem, and was significant for several reasons. It was where the Lord first appeared to Abraham in the land and where Abraham built his first altar. Jacob also buried idols there. When Joshua led the Israelites into the land, he followed these instructions, as is recorded later in Joshua 8.

This altar was to be made of uncut stones, possibly to avoid dependence on the Canaanites for iron and to prevent any influence from them. Another reason might be to emphasize that this altar was a divine work, not a human one.

Verses 6-7 then elaborates on the sacrifices:

Build the altar of the Lord your God with stones from the field and offer burnt offerings on it to the Lord your God. Sacrifice fellowship offerings there, eating them and rejoicing in the presence of the Lord your God. 

(Deuteronomy 27: 6-7)

The peace offering, also known as a fellowship offering, was eaten as a communal meal, expressing thankfulness and joy for the Lord's provision. This ceremony was part of renewing the covenant with God.

So this chapter so far has outlined several do's:

·         Keep the commandments.

·         Set up a memorial with the law inscribed on it.

·         Build an altar with uncut stones.

·         Offer sacrifices and partake in a communal meal.

Verse 8 reiterates the importance of writing the law:

And you shall write very clearly all the words of this law on these stones you have set up.’

(Deuteronomy 27: 8)

This repeated emphasis underscores the significance of the law as a central part of Israel's identity and their covenant relationship with God.

These instructions were intended to solidify the Israelites' commitment to God's law and to visibly demonstrate this commitment to both themselves and the surrounding nations. 

In ancient Canaan, public announcements were often made by inscribing messages on stones, a practice not unlike writing on large billboards today. 

Next Moses and the priests, the Levites, speak to Israel.

Then Moses and the Levitical priests said to all Israel, ‘Be silent, Israel, and listen! You have now become the people of the Lord your God. Obey the Lord your God and follow his commands and decrees that I give you today.’

(Deuteronomy 27: 9-10)

This declaration may seem puzzling, as the Israelites were already God's chosen people. However, this statement likely refers to their becoming His people in the Promised Land by fulfilling His instructions there. It marks a new phase in their relationship with God as they enter and settle in the land.

From the beginning of the chapter to this point, the recurring theme is clear: Keep His commandments. The emphasis is on obeying God's laws, setting up a memorial to remind them of these laws, building an altar, making sacrifices, and celebrating with a communal meal. The core instruction remains: Keep His commandments.

The geographical setting plays a crucial role in these instructions. 

When you have crossed the Jordan, these tribes shall stand on Mount Gerizim to bless the people: Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, Joseph and Benjamin. And these tribes shall stand on Mount Ebal to pronounce curses: Reuben, Gad, Asher, Zebulun, Dan and Naphtali.

(Deuteronomy 27: 12-13)

Mount Gerizim and Mount Ebal, located in Shechem, are the two mountains where these blessings and curses were to be proclaimed. 

Shechem's significance is underscored by its history, including being the site where the Lord first appeared to Abraham and where Jacob buried his idols. Joshua later fulfilled Moses' instructions at this location, as will be recorded in Joshua 8.

Six tribes were to stand on Mount Gerizim to pronounce blessings, while the other six tribes stood on Mount Ebal to pronounce curses. This division emphasized the importance of both blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience.

Setting up a memorial with the law inscribed on it served as a constant reminder to the Israelites to obey God's commandments. This act of remembrance is crucial, as even today, we still need constant reminders to stay focused on our commitments and responsibilities. 

The Levites shall recite to all the people of Israel in a loud voice: ‘Cursed is anyone who makes an idol – a thing detestable to the Lord, the work of skilled hands – and sets it up in secret.’ Then all the people shall say, ‘Amen!’

(Deuteronomy 27: 14-15)

The discussion on idolatry and the commandments brings a critical point to light.

The first commandment prohibits having other gods, and the second commandment prohibits making a graven image of God. These commandments emphasize worshipping God alone and not reducing Him to a physical form or misrepresenting Him.

The golden calf incident in Exodus is a clear example of violating the second commandment by attempting to represent Yahweh with an idol.

Misrepresenting God is not limited to physical idols; it can also occur through incorrect teachings and portrayals of God. Preachers and teachers have a significant responsibility to accurately represent God's nature and character. Misrepresenting Him, whether through idols or false teachings, distorts the understanding of His true essence.

Misrepresenting the Lord is a serious offense, as it distorts the true image and nature of God. Even gifted teachers can fall into this trap. If one misrepresents God, whether through teaching or action, there is judgment upon them. Misrepresentation can come in many forms, including creating a caricature of God that aligns with personal biases rather than scriptural truths. This misrepresentation leads to a skewed understanding of God's character and commands, which can have dire spiritual consequences.

So, in summary, the instructions given to the Israelites were to:

·         Keep God's commandments.

·         Set up a memorial with the law inscribed on it.

·         Build an altar with uncut stones.

·         Offer sacrifices and partake in a communal meal.

·         Stand on Mount Gerizim and Mount Ebal to proclaim blessings and curses.

The don nots now follow thick and fast.

Verse 16:

"Cursed is the one who treats his father or mother with contempt. And all the people shall say, 'Amen.'"

Disrespecting parents is a grave offense because it undermines the foundational structure of society. Honouring parents instils a respect for authority, which is crucial for societal stability. A society where children are not taught to respect their parents will struggle with authority at all levels, leading to broader social issues.

This sensitivity often stems from a lack of respect for authority and a misguided sense of entitlement, reflecting the failure to instil foundational values of respect and discipline.

Verse 17:

Cursed is anyone who moves their neighbour’s boundary stone.’ Then all the people shall say, ‘Amen!’

(Deuteronomy 27: 17)

This commandment addresses dishonesty and theft. In ancient times, boundary stones marked property lines. Moving these stones was a deceitful way to steal land. Such actions disrupt communal trust and integrity, essential for a harmonious society.

Verse 18:

‘Cursed is anyone who leads the blind astray on the road.’ Then all the people shall say, ‘Amen!’

(Deuteronomy 27: 18)

Deceiving or taking advantage of the vulnerable, like the blind, is condemned. This commandment calls for compassion and justice, particularly towards those who are helpless.

Verse 19:

"Cursed is the one who withholds justice from the foreigner, the fatherless or the widow. And all the people shall say, 'Amen.'"

This commandment emphasizes fair treatment for all, especially the marginalized. Injustice towards the vulnerable is a serious offense, as it exploits those who are already disadvantaged.

The next few verses address various forms of sexual immorality, highlighting their destructive nature.

"Cursed is the man who sleeps with his father’s wife, for he dishonours his father’s bed. And all the people shall say, 'Amen.'"

(Deuteronomy 27: 20)

This commandment prohibits incestuous relationships, specifically with a stepmother. Such actions are not only morally wrong but also disrupt familial integrity.

"Cursed is the man who has sexual relations with any animal. And all the people shall say, 'Amen.'"

(Deuteronomy 27: 21)

Bestiality is condemned as a perverse and unnatural act, violating the sanctity of human sexuality.

"Cursed is the man who sleeps with his sister, the daughter of his father or the daughter of his mother. And all the people shall say, 'Amen.'"

(Deuteronomy 27: 22)

Incest, even with half-siblings, is forbidden, as it violates natural boundaries within the family.

"Cursed is the man who sleeps with his mother-in-law. And all the people shall say, 'Amen.'"

(Deuteronomy 27: 23)

This commandment condemns sexual relations with a mother-in-law, another form of incest, highlighting the importance of maintaining appropriate familial relationships.

Other Forms of Injustice are dealth with in the closing couple of verses

"Cursed is the man who kills his neighbor secretly. And all the people shall say, 'Amen.'"

(Deuteronomy 27: 24)

This commandment addresses secretive murder, emphasizing that even hidden sins are judged by God. The secretive nature implies premeditation and deceit.

"Cursed is the man who accepts a bribe to kill an innocent person. And all the people shall say, 'Amen.'"

(Deuteronomy 27: 25)

Taking a bribe to commit murder is a severe offense, showing a complete disregard for human life. The prevalence of such crimes in murder mysteries often highlights how cheaply some value human life, accepting minimal payment to commit heinous acts.

The commandments in these verses highlight the importance of justice, respect, and integrity in personal and communal relationships. 

They call here is for a society built on moral principles, where respect for authority, compassion for the vulnerable, sexual morality and the sanctity of life are upheld. Failure to adhere to these principles results in societal decay, as seen in contemporary examples all around us where disrespect and injustice are prevalent.

The biblical call to uphold these values remains relevant, urging us to foster a society grounded in respect, justice, and compassion.

Finally, Verse 26:

"Cursed is anyone who does not uphold the words of this law by carrying them out. And all the people shall say, 'Amen.'"

(Deuteronomy 26: 26)

This final verse serves as a powerful conclusion to the series of curses. Moses has listed several specific sins, such as disrespecting parents, deceiving the blind, and engaging in various forms of sexual immorality, to name a few. But he finishes with a comprehensive condemnation on anyone who does not uphold all the words of the law. 

This highlights that any disobedience, regardless of its nature, brings a trouble.

Moses emphasizes that breaking even a single law results in the equivalent of being cursed. But notice already here within the earliest texts of the Old Testament this is a principle that underscores the impossibility of achieving righteousness through the law alone. 

This principle is echoed in the New Testament. In Galatians 3:10-11, Paul uses this verse from Deuteronomy to argue that no one can be justified by the law. He quotes Deuteronomy 27:26 to demonstrate that everyone who relies on the law is under a curse because it is impossible to keep all the commandments perfectly.

Instead, Paul asserts that "the righteous will live by faith," emphasizing faith over legalistic adherence to the law.

It's challenging to detect a single unifying theme among the twelve curses listed her in Deuteronomy 27, although many pertain to secret sins. Notably, eight of the twelve curses directly relate to violations of the Ten Commandments:

·         Deuteronomy 27:15 (Second Commandment)

·         Deuteronomy 27:16 (Fifth Commandment)

·         Deuteronomy 27:17 (Eighth Commandment)

·         Deuteronomy 27:20, 22, 23 (Seventh Commandment)

·         Deuteronomy 27:24, 25 (Sixth Commandment)

This connection suggests a focus on maintaining moral integrity and societal order by adhering to these fundamental laws and everything morally that arises out of them 

Bringing It All Together

In summary, Moses instructs the Israelites to commit themselves to obey all the commandments of the Lord as they enter the Promised Land.

This commitment is to be publicly affirmed in a ceremony where the Levites pronounce curses on those who disobey. The specific examples provided serve as a sample, culminating in the overarching principle that failing to uphold any part of the law results in a curse.

The passage underscores the seriousness of both actions and intentions. 

Disobedience to God's commandments carries severe consequences, not only natural consequences but also divine judgment. This judgment can be fatal, manifesting in various forms such as disease, famine, or death.

Moses' message is clear: obey the Lord's commandments fully. Partial obedience or neglect of any commandment results in severe consequences. This principle mirrors the concept of a "fatal error" that results in automatic failure, impressing upon the Israelites the importance of meticulous obedience to God's law.

This chapter today reminds us of the comprehensive nature of God's law and the seriousness of disobedience. While some sins may seem more severe than others, all disobedience is significant and carries consequences. 

The passage also calls for wholehearted commitment to following God's commandments, highlighting the importance of living a life of integrity and faithfulness to God's word.