Be Different Because You Are
Deuteronomy week 5
As we come to this week’s passage, we’re found right, smack-bang in a big chunk of laws. From chapter 12, all the way through to the end of chapter 26, Moses is outlining some really specific ways Israel is to live and do things as the enter the promised land of Canaan. As they move from being nomadic people, to settling in a land with foreign people, cultures and gods, Moses urges Israel to be faithful to the covenant God made with them at Mt Sinai. And in this little section in chapter 22, we get a glimpse into the heart of why obedience to God matters.
Read the passage – Deuteronomy 22:1-12
What stood out to you? Was there something that really connected with you?
1. In v1-4, what does “loving your neighbour” look like?
2. The 3 laws in v5-8 seem quite random and even mundane in comparison to some others. Why do you think they matter? What does the second half of v7 seem to suggest?
3. In v9-11 we get 3 laws that seem to be about keeping things separated. What do you think might be the principle they’re getting at?
4. V12 seems strange. What’s the deal with the tassels? Have a look at Numbers 15:38-40 and discuss. Then check out Matthew 23:1-7. How did the Pharisees get this command wrong (with regard to tassels/visible symbols of being Jewish).
Read 1 Peter 2:9-12
1. For followers of Jesus, what does this say about who we are and what we’re called to do?
2. It’s not hard for followers of Jesus to stand out in our world today. What are some areas that we might choose to be obedient to Jesus today, and how might that point people towards the life we have in him?