Sermons on 5th Commandment
1 Samuel 8:1-22 (Part 2)
In 1 Samuel 8:1-22 the people ask for a king “like the other nations”. This, however, is contrary to the will of God. One distinction between the kings of the other nations and kingship in Israel is the king’s relationship to the law and more particularly to God. If the king is under God, then he is subject to God’s law. If he is subject to God’s law, then his power is limited. If, however, the king is a god…
1 Samuel 8:1-22 (Part 1)
In 1 Samuel 8:1-22 the people ask Samuel for a king like the other nations. This is understood by both Samuel and God to be a rejection of God. Why is this the case? The reason is because God was fighting the battles of the Israelites, but they thought that they needed a king like the nations to do this. This illustrates a general principle: When people turn away from God, they will often put their hope in the government…
Deuteronomy 18:9-22, Part 2
In Deuteronomy 18:9-22 Moses speaks of a “prophet like Moses”, like himself, whom God will raise up. This prophet, who is the Lord Jesus Christ (see part 1), is the one who perfectly reveals God, identifies with his people, works great wonders among them, and saves them from their sins. In all of these things, Christ is not only like Moses but actually far surpasses him.
Deuteronomy 18:1-8
In Deuteronomy 18:1-8 Moses gives instructions concerning contributions for the Levites. Because they maintain the worship of God, they are to receive support from sacrifices brought to the sanctuary. The same principle applies to those who preach the gospel (1 Cor. 9:13-14). Ultimately, failing to support those who labor in the worship of God is a sign of spiritual weakness.
Deuteronomy 17:14-20
In Deuteronomy 17:14-20 Moses details the laws for the king. In contrast to the nations around Israel, these laws severely limit the power of the king because the king himself must recognize God’s superior power, that is, the king himself is under the law of God. This has implications for government today. As Samuel Rutherford argued “The Law is King”. The biblical form of government is limited.
Deuteronomy 16:18-17:13
Justice is something easily misunderstood. All seek to do what is right and just, but what does the Bible say about justice? In Deuteronomy 16:18-17:13 Moses addresses this issue as he begins to expound the 5th commandment. Justice is ultimately found in the just judge of all the Earth, God Himself, who will judge the world in righteousness. Biblical justice is a reflection of Him. In describing this justice, Moses points to it being free from bribery or partiality. …