What is the Purpose of the Law?-Deuteronomy 12-13
Read Deuteronomy 12:1-7
Today’s Truth
In his second speech, Moses moves from general to more specific covenant stipulations that Israel must obey in the Promised Land. The order of this expansion of the law follows the order of the Ten Commandments.
Deuteronomy 12 explains proper worship of the Lord, expanding on the first commandment about having no other gods before Him. The Lord desires to lead His people away from idols and false gods. Moses challenged Israel to remove the evil practices of their surrounding nations, even to the point of death. Canaanite worship included many abominable moral practices such as prostitution and child sacrifice.
Discussion Questions
- Do you see influences in your life leading you to “worship false gods?” If so, how can you eliminate those influences and” purge the evil from you”?
- Is there an area of your life where you are going through the motions, but your heart is not actually surrendered to loving God and loving others? What will you change to follow God fully?
Application
The Lord called Israel to totally remove evil practices, knowing they would be influenced by the nations if they compromised. If Israel walks in obedience to the Lord, they will experience His mercy, compassion, and provision.
