Graceland (2)
And it shall come to pass, if you carefully listen to my commandments which I command you today, . . . Deuteronomy 11:13
Carefully Listen To – We have discovered that even Jewish rabbis recognized the priority of grace. The false dichotomy between law and grace was an invention of Augustine. His influence spread through church history, resulting in the current mistaken view that Jews believe salvation comes by “works” but Christians have a superior understanding of the role of grace. None of this is biblical.
So, now that we have a corrected view of the biblical position, let’s take a closer look at this verse. Immediately we see that the original is a duplicate word, shama’. The text actually reads “eem-shamoa tishmeoo” (if you shama’ shama’). The verb shama’ means “to listen, to hear, to obey, to regard, to proclaim, to heed, to understand.” A pretty wide umbrella covering most of what it means to know what God says and do it. In order to emphasize the importance of this concept, the text duplicates the word. This is like putting an exclamation point behind the idea. It’s not simply a matter of receiving the sound waves with your ears. This is “Pay attention!” “Do what you are instructed to do!” Carefully give attention to God’s Word and be sure that what He says becomes the way that we live.
It’s worth noting that there is a small Hebrew particle proceeding the duplicated shama’. That particle is eem. It is “if.” God’s instruction is conditional. “If you pay attention and do what I command you to do, then certain things will follow.” Of course, conditional statements require fulfillment. So, even though Israel is God’s chosen people, they must still commit themselves to His ways. The covenant of grace contains expected obligations. God acts to save. Israel is expected to live accordingly.
“If you carefully listen and obey,” says the Lord, “then I will deliver what you need to be prosperous, safe and satisfied.” That sounds pretty good. After all, who is capable of bringing the rains, causing the growth of the plants, protecting the livestock and satisfying our needs more than God Himself? Do we really think that we can handle all the tasks and circumstances of life on our own? Are we really ready to say, “No thanks, Lord. I’ll just make my own way in the world.” Obedience has rewards – if we listen carefully.
Of course, there is the other side of the coin. We could act as if God’s instructions for living don’t apply to us. We could ignore the if and not listen or obey. I wonder what we can expect to occur then? Maybe we should ask Adam.
Topical Index: shama’, eem, if, listen, obey, Deuteronomy 11:13
“Of course, there is the other side of the coin. We could act as if God’s instructions for living don’t apply to us. We could ignore the if and not listen or obey. I wonder what we can expect to occur then? Maybe we should ask Adam.”
Or we could just read your update on “National Immorality”.
I am constantly amazed when I hear of America’s bent toward being a “Christian” nation. The stats shout “80% believe in God”. REALLY? Which one? America is polytheistic and is now reaping the corruption sown over time. This polytheism is reflected in inclusiveness and denominations. Isn’t THAT interesting? We will allow your own belief system and your separateness as long as you pay homage to the government. You can set up your own community, laws and lifestyles as long as they do not interfere with what the current government declares to be lawful. Of course, “lawful” is subjective now. Relativism and pragmatism-situational ethics-determines who what when and how. Whoever is in power determines what is lawful. So it is with each faction and denomination. Did the Lord tell us a house divided against itself CANNOT stand? We have, for the most part, become charismatic-Name it and claim it! Pick and choose whatever appeals to you. Well, in the words of Dr. Phil…”How’s that workin’ for you? (USA) The other question is…will what you are living for now carry over to eternity?
Luk 24:27 And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself.
Luk 24:27 -And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, He expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning Himself.-
An excellent word Mary, and thank you for this “word from the Word.” The Bible is our Him-book. It is G-d’s progressive revelation of Himself to us. I say “progressive” because it does tend to slowly “dawn on us”- this is no ordinary book. I’ve been poking around within the covers of this very special book for over 45 years now and can happily testify with many others- this is G-d’s book of instruction.
Just the words- “before Abraham was- I am” should capture our attention. This Jesus was/is much more than a man and also was/is not only a man but also “much more.”
I share your grief for this nation and for the current “state of the union”, but it encourages me to know there always seems to be a “remant that remains. A “few good men” (and women) G-d reserves for Himself to do His will. There are a few who are “carefully listening” to the tender invitation- “come- follow me.”