Week 1, Day 2: Exploring the Covenant – Understanding Old Testament Law

Get Week 1 of the study here!

Episode Summary: Today, we continue our journey through the Books of the Law, fast-forwarding from the creation of the universe to around 1440 B.C., when God establishes His covenant with the Israelites through Moses. We’ll explore what this covenant means, the role of Old Testament law, and how it reflects God’s justice, mercy, and desire for His people. While some may view these laws as restrictive, today’s reading will reveal how they serve as a guidepost for understanding God’s character and His call to holiness.

Key Scripture:

• Exodus 20:1-21 – The Ten Commandments, foundational laws given to Israel.
• Leviticus 19 – Instructions on holiness in daily life and the command to love your neighbor.

Key Takeaways:

• Old Testament Law: The Old Testament law represents the covenantal agreement between God and the Israelites, governing their behavior in return for His care and provision. While often summarized by the Ten Commandments, the laws span from Exodus 20 through Deuteronomy 33.
• Dos and Don’ts of Reading Old Testament Law: Adapted from Gordon Fee and Douglas Stuart’s book How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth, we examine how to approach Old Testament law as God’s inspired Word for us, but not His direct command to us. These laws are a paradigm for expected behavior and a reflection of God's justice, love, and high standards.
• God’s Character Revealed: As we read Exodus 20, we see that the Ten Commandments reveal God’s character and His deep desire for His people to live in relationship with Him. God’s command for exclusive worship (Exodus 20:1-3) is a call that still resonates with our relationship with Him today.
• Holiness in Daily Life: Leviticus 19 emphasizes living out holiness in practical ways. Instructions like "love your neighbor as yourself" (Leviticus 19:18) reflect the heart behind God's covenant with His people. While the laws are often misunderstood as restrictive, they are intended to bring blessing and reflect God’s justice and mercy.

Reflection Questions:

1. As you read the Ten Commandments in Exodus 20:1-21, how do these foundational laws reveal God's character and His desires for His people?
2. In Exodus 20:1-3, God commands exclusive worship. How does this call to worship only God resonate with your relationship with Him today?
3. Leviticus 19 emphasizes holiness in daily life. How do the instructions in this chapter challenge or affirm the way you live out your faith practically?
4. God's laws are often misunderstood as restrictive. How does Leviticus 19:18’s command to “love your neighbor as yourself” reveal the heart behind God's covenant with His people?
5. In what ways do Exodus 20 and Leviticus 19 help you appreciate the role of Old Testament law as a guidepost for understanding God’s justice, mercy, and holiness?

Action Steps:

1. Read Exodus 20:1-21 and Leviticus 19: Reflect on how these laws reveal God’s character and His desire for our lives.
2. Meditate on the Call to Worship God Alone: Consider how your life reflects God’s command for exclusive worship and obedience.
3. Apply the Call to Holiness: Leviticus 19 challenges us to live out holiness in practical ways—how can you apply this to your daily walk with God?

Resources Mentioned:

• How to Read the Bible for All It’s Worth by Gordon D. Fee & Douglas Stuart (pages 163-164)
• Bible Study Guide: Unfolding God’s Story: Exploring the Genres of Scripture
• Key Bible Passages: Exodus 20:1-21, Leviticus 19

Join the Conversation:

• Share your reflections on today’s reading and thoughts on Old Testament law by using the hashtag #NoDustyBibles and #UnfoldingGodsStory.
• Follow along with us throughout this six-week study as we continue exploring the genres of Scripture.

Next Episode: Tomorrow, we’ll continue digging into the Books of the Law, exploring more of God’s covenant with Israel and how it sets the stage for Jesus.

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Thank you for joining us for this episode of the No Dusty Bibles Podcast. Remember, every page turned in the Bible is a step closer to understanding the heart of God. We're here to journey with you, one chapter at a time.

In our daily readings, we are grateful to utilize the World English Bible (WEB) translation, a resource committed to making the words of Scripture accessible to all. The WEB is in the public domain, allowing it to be freely used and shared. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the contributors and supporters of the World English Bible for their dedication to making this valuable translation available to the public. Their work enables us to explore and share the Bible's teachings with everyone, furthering our mission to make the Bible accessible and available for every woman.