Wednesday 26 March 2014

Background

Verse 1 states that keeping the commandments will lead to life.This idea may surprise the reader who is used to the New Testamentteaching that salvation does not come by the works of the law, butby faith (eg Romans 9:31-32). However we should bear in mindthat Deuteronomy seeks obedience from the heart (Deuteronomy 6:5). This is of course, differentfrom mere legalism. Moses went on to show that faithfulness to Godhad already brought life, and wickedness brought death in Israel'sexperience (verses 3-4).

Obviously, keeping God's laws brings freedom and delight (Psalm119:45, 47). This was Israel's true destiny in theland. Israel's laws were unlike any other nations, just as her Godwas unlike any other gods (Deuteronomy 3:24). Their righteousness impliesthat they bring salvation. Law and life are intimately related.

To Ponder

"Oh how I love your law! It is my meditation all day long." (Psalm119:97)