Be repentant

Explore the Bible
February 19, 2012

Bill Scroggs, pastor
First Baptist, Petit Jean 

Scripture passage:
Deuteronomy 27:1-30:20  

Proverbs 16:7 (KJV) tells us, “When a man’s ways please the LORD, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him.” 

This lesson reminds us to return to God that it may be well with us, with our families and with our nation. Moses told the children of Israel to record the Law that had been given to them on stones covered by plaster. They were to write it clearly so it could be seen and plainly understood. 

In Deuteronomy 27:9-10, Moses told them to “be silent (shut up) and listen” and to obey the commands he is giving them. He wanted them to remember the words of the Law and be obedient. He told them they had become the people of the Lord God that day. 

Not only were the Laws recorded on the stone, they were also to be proclaimed in a loud voice by the priests (Levites) to every Israelite. Moses understood the severity of the curses of the Law and wanted to make sure everyone heard and understood. As each Law was read, each of the children of Israel was to say “amen” in agreement. 

In Deuteronomy 28, Moses gave the children of Israel a list of blessings for being obedient to God. He told them if they obeyed, neither turning right or left from what they are commanded, they and their families, cities and country would be blessed. Why are these words not enough to cause us to stand tall and follow God? 

Then the “but” comes. If you do not remain obedient to God, curses will come on you, your families, your cities and your country.

Deuteronomy 29 encourages renewing the Covenant with God and warns against abandoning God’s Commands and Covenants. Moses reminded them not to choose the idols of the inhabitants. 

In chapter 30, Moses reminded them God had set before them blessings and life if they would but choose to serve God and encouraged them to choose life by obeying God.