Deuteronomy 28 is what most would call "black and white". In other words, there are consequences for obeying God's Law and consequences for disobeying the same Law. Obedience leads to blessings. Disobedience results in curses and destruction.
The original readers were reminded of God's grace and mercy. Years prior, they were led from slavery in Egypt - a horrific way of life - to freedom and on their way to the land God had promised. Things would work out well if they valued their freedom and chose to honor the One who provides that same freedom. Again, it appears their future would be a result based on their decisions.
Since God sent His Son to die for the sins of the world (2 Cor 5:21, 1 Jn 2:2), we have lived under grace rather than Law (cf. Paul's admonitions to the Galatians among other texts). Although I want to make decisions that result in the blessings mentioned in Deut. 28, my flesh continues to drag me "south". And the Bible makes it clear this is going to be an issue until Christ returns and restores all things.
About this time, Romans 7 might have come to mind. There's a great post from a friend here. Kinney Mabry has a good post on the Law here.
Although we no longer live under the Law, the New Testament is clear New Testament Christians continue to have responsibilities. Consider Jesus declaring, "Do not think that I have come to abolish the law or the prophets; I have come not to abolish but to fulfill" (Matt. 5:17 NRSV) or Peter reminding readers "For it is written, 'You shall be holy, for I am holy" (1 Pet. 1:16 NRSV).
My decision today is to live for Christ. I know based on previous experience, I'm going to sin. I'm going to be selfish. I'm going to "miss the mark". But I'm not going to rationalize those things. I refuse to push them aside and just claim "That's just the way I am." I'll call them what they are - SIN. Then I'll go to Christ and repent, knowing "...he who is faithful and just will forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness" (1 Jn 1:9).
Anything you want to say?
“Bible reading as struggle”
18 hours ago
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7 comments:
Only that, I like to think of this in terms of being in relationship with God. Knowing or thinking about Law or my responsibilities has rarely, if ever, stopped me from sinning. But, my relationship with Him does. Of course, I still fall waaaaaay short, but through relationship with Christ and the Holy Spirit I am continually cleansed. There is also the aspect of relationships with others. I have found that my relationships with others makes me stop and think about my actions since many have far-reaching implications that affect the people around me and not just myself.
Thanks for making me think!
Agree Cheryl...but don't you think for any relationship to be what it could be is to understand your responsibility/obligation to the other party? That applies to our relationship with God and with others.
As for the Law, I see it applying in how it provides a standard to work towards (life in general, in relationships with God/others etc.). Even though I can never fully follow the Law, I recognize God's grace.
Thanks for the visit. I look forward to your posts and wish the best for your friends.
Mike
Thanks, Mike for the link, as well as the good words here.
Not an easy balance. Theologians I'm sure have tried to address it in some varying ways as to what's going on. Part of the tension of already/not yet. God stretching us to make us grows brings new tensions to deal with, surely. Hopefully we can learn over time to negotiate by grace through faith such stretchings better. A part of our growth in grace, as well. Sure glad for those seasons of rest and refreshment.
You're quite welcome Ted. I really appreciated the Rom 7 post.
The times of rest and renewal are extremely important.
Blessings!
Mike
Hello. So, I posted a long response to your comment and then I somehow, DELETED it! I was so frustrated that I just turned off the computer! :) I will try to sit down and remember it today!
- Glad I'm not the only one that does that Cheryl. No worries!
Mike
- Glad I'm not the only one that does that Cheryl. No worries!
Mike
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