The Law Curb Our Sinful Nature

Rev. Sean Kilgo, pastor at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Lawrence, KS, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Deuteronomy 19:1-21. Moses teaches the people concerning the cities of refuge they will establish once they enter the Promised Land. Three such cities have already been established on the east side of the Jordan; three more will need to be established in the Promised Land so no one will have trouble fleeing to them in the case of manslaughter. Through the cities of refuge, the LORD places a check on the sinful desire for vengeance, while also clearly providing that true justice be carried out in actual cases of murder. Property markers reminded the people that the land belonged ultimately to the LORD. The provision for two or three witnesses was a further enshrinement of justice, lest human justice be too lenient or too harsh. “The Law of God is Good and Wise” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Deuteronomy. Though Moses’ lengthy sermons in Deuteronomy may be tempting to skip, this influential book is essential reading for Christians. As Moses strengthened Israel on the plains of Moab before the people entered the Promised Land, so the book of Deuteronomy still strengthens the Church as we prepare to enter the Resurrection with Christ, the Prophet greater than Moses.