When Rebels are Forgiven
Deuteronomy week 4
‘Not because of your righteousness.’
This part of Deuteronomy reminds the Israelites that it wasn’t because they were good that God was fulfilling his promises.
‘For you are a stiff-necked people.’
They are deliberately doing what God says not to. It seems crazy. Yet, the story of the Old Testament is that God’s people continue to be actively disobedient in the face of God’s good promises.
The people of the Old Testament are not especially bad, they are people just like us. Today however mostly we think we’re alright, or neutral in our attitude and actions to God. Do you really believed that ultimately, without god, you are stiff necked?
Read the passage – Deuteronomy 9:1-29
1. How are Israel going to end up in the land in v1-5?
2. How does Moses describe the behaviour of the people of God in v6-24?
3. In what way might they get into the land in v25-29?
4. How would you describe Moses’ role?
“42He went away a second time and prayed, “My Father, if it is not possible for this cup to be taken away unless I drink it, may your will be done.”
Matthew 26:42
1. If God’s people are stiff-necked, how would you talk about Jesus’ attitude and actions?
2. Do you really believe you are stiff necked? Ask God to show you where your attitude and actions need to change to depend on Jesus?