I'll Take You to Court

The Case is Opened

· History of the accused

· History of the accuser

· Evidence is gathered

· Witnesses are deposed

The Case is presented

· Plaintiff- God

o Opening statement- Vs 3 “what have I done to you?”

o Evidence presented

§ God’s redeeming record

· Brought you up from Egypt

· Sent Moses to lead

· Story of Balak and Balaam ()

· Your journey from Shittim to Gilgal

§ This evidence defends God’s actions

§ This evidence proves God’s Character

§ This evidence indicted God’s people

· Defendant- Israel

o No defense, no evidence presented. The people are guilty and, yet don’t admit it. Instead of pleading for mercy, they offer God a settlement.

§ Actions that mimic worship

· Burnt offerings?

· Thousand rams

· Firstborn

· Counter offer

o The people are guilty, and their offer is seen as empty and meaningless. God has already showed them what is Good, and their actions could never measure up. Instead they are given three requirements as condition.

§ Do Justly (what is right)

§ Love mercy

§ Walk Humbly

· It’s vital to understand these not conditions of works that would satisfy God’s charge. Rather they are fruits of a relationship that is seeking honor God because of his mercy

Sentence is pronounced (vs 9-16)

Key Lessons for us to learn from this:

1. God is just, and takes our sin seriously

2. We would never win in God’s courtroom

3. Mercy is the overriding picture of God

4. A healthy relationship with God is evidenced by a life that

a. Does what is right (do justly)

b. Filled with compassion (love mercy)

Walks in humility (watches where he steps)