Old Testament Archives

Should Christians Support Modern Israel's Wars? (Deuteronomy 20, Pt. 2)

Many Christians are taught that we should automatically support the modern state of Israel in its wars in the Middle East. While Bible passages are cited to support this position, is that actually what the Scriptures teach? In this message, we explore relevant passages from the Old and New Testaments to understand how the Lord

Should Christians Support Modern Israel's Wars? (Deuteronomy 20, Pt. 2) View Lesson

Anyone Hung on a Tree is Cursed (Deuteronomy 21)

Here we encounter an extraordinary prophecy about Jesus, later quoted by Paul in Galatians. It reveals the cursed way in which Jesus would die: as a criminal, suspended (hung) on a tree. This manner of His death has been a major stumbling block to the Jews. However, it reminds us that each disciple must take

Anyone Hung on a Tree is Cursed (Deuteronomy 21) View Lesson

Don't Plow with a Bull and a Donkey Together (Deuteronomy 22:1-12)

What do wandering donkeys, men's clothing, deck railings, and animal selection for plowing have in common? Is this chapter in Deuteronomy filled with obsolete Old Testament rules? You may be surprised by the spiritual (and extremely practical) gems we uncover in this lesson, including the kindness of God, our identities as men and women, the

Don't Plow with a Bull and a Donkey Together (Deuteronomy 22:1-12) View Lesson

Keep Your Vows to the Lord (Deuteronomy 22:13-23:24)

In the Law, Moses said that God’s people must keep any vows they made to the Lord. Jesus would raise this to an even higher standard of integrity: we must always keep our word. Our ‘yes’ must be ‘yes’. This may be one of the most challenging of Jesus’ teachings to follow. In this lesson, we

Keep Your Vows to the Lord (Deuteronomy 22:13-23:24) View Lesson

Divorce and Remarriage (Deuteronomy 24:1-4)

In this lesson, we review what Moses taught in the Law regarding divorce and remarriage, and how Jesus later changed that. For many Christians today, this may be the most controversial and misunderstood of all Jesus' kingdom teachings. We also look at how Christians in the first three centuries understood and applied these teachings, and

Divorce and Remarriage (Deuteronomy 24:1-4) View Lesson

The Kindness of God (Deuteronomy 24:5-22)

Here, in the heart of the Old Testament, we see God's compassionate nature. This provides a clear picture of the importance of what Jesus called "the second greatest commandment". We also consider the important biblical principle that fathers will not be punished for the sins of their sons, nor will sons be punished for the

The Kindness of God (Deuteronomy 24:5-22) View Lesson

Do Not Muzzle the Ox (Deuteronomy 25)

This chapter introduces a surprising range of topics. They include classic ‘Eastern’ or allegorical style prophecies that foreshadow: Jesus on the cross, victory over Satan, and the basis for providing financial support to those in ministry. We also uncover a detail that could shed light on a question Christians have raised through the ages: “Why

Do Not Muzzle the Ox (Deuteronomy 25) View Lesson

One Final Commandment in the Law (Deuteronomy 26)

The last rule given by Moses is to protect them from dangers associated with prosperity. After they enter Canaan, they are to set aside special offerings from the firstfruits of the land. The Lord knows that material prosperity will tempt His people to forget Him, leading them to become prideful and self-reliant. We then consider

One Final Commandment in the Law (Deuteronomy 26) View Lesson

The Ultimate Curse (Deuteronomy 27)

Moses explains that after the Israelites cross the Jordan River and enter Canaan, they must build a special altar on Mount Ebal. Then the Levites will pronounce a series of curses on the nation that will fall on them if they violate commands from the Law of Moses. The final curse is a catch-all. Paul will

The Ultimate Curse (Deuteronomy 27) View Lesson

Your Life Shall Hang Before Your Eyes (Deuteronomy 28)

Here, Moses gives classic conditional promises to Israel: blessings if they obey and graphic curses if they do not. This reminds us of promises of Jesus that likewise include important conditions. This chapter also contains a remarkable, faith-building prophecy of the crucifixion of Christ, one recognized by many early Christians writers but largely unknown today. Teaching

Your Life Shall Hang Before Your Eyes (Deuteronomy 28) View Lesson