The People of God

The People of God Exodus 22:123:9 Context • Today, we continue with God’s “Rules” – case laws decisions judges should make when considering the principles/examples to follow • In 22:1-23:9, we see a string of laws that may seem only loosely connected but vitally shape Israel’s society and culture. • When these types of laws are ignored, you have situations like Genesis 19:1ff or Judges 19:22ff. • Our outline today will follow three watchwords: Types, Principles, and Revelations Types of Social Laws 1. Laws Regarding Loss (22:1-17) • • • • Loss by stealing (1-4) Loss by neglect (5-9) Loss by accident (10-14) Loss of decency (16-17) 2. Laws Regarding Religion (22:18-20) – Sorcery, bestiality, and idolatry are all prominent in Canaanite false religion. Types of Laws 3. Laws Protecting the Vulnerable (22:21-28) • • Notice the general prohibition against mistreating sojourners, widows, or orphans and God’s severe response “I will kill you” (21:24) Both the poor and civil leaders are considered vulnerable in their own way and derive God’s protection. 4. Laws of Consecration (22:29-31) – animals were brought as an act of sacrificial worship; sons were redeemed with a payment of five silver coins (see Exodus 13:13-15; Numbers 18:16). Types of Laws 5. Laws of Integrity (23:1-9) • • The fundamental building block of God’s justice is truth (dishonesty, bribes, class warfare, majority pressure, etc, can all pervert justice because they can all disregard the truth) Integrity extends to the human level – you may have a disagreement with someone, but the fact of their travail compels your action. Principles of Social Laws • They are unapologetically theocratic – Israel made a covenant with their Divine King (see Exodus 19:8) • They magnify deterrence and redemption – stealing and negligence are gravely discouraged but quick justice and redemption are possible (5x “he shall pay”) • They underline compassion and integrity – Jesus called these “the weightier matters of the law” (Matthew 23:23) Revelations of God • God wants His people to live with Him as Sovereign of All – it keeps us from evil, prevents bitterness over accidents, and encourages deep generosity. • God wants His people to be different – His people are kind to enemies, support the vulnerable, lookout for neighbors, and live in integrity. • God wants His people to live free of fear – when His people are unafraid of others, they make themselves open, available, and even vulnerable.