BibleProject | One Story That Leads to JesusSample

In a world always pushing for bigger, louder, and more for me and mine, God’s instructions for his people stand in stark contrast, calling his people to humility, restraint, and generous care for others. Today’s reading includes certain limitations intended to guide Israel on the path of blessing and life.

Where other nations regard kings as divine beings who are the law, Israel’s top leaders are neither divine nor above the law. Like everyone else, they are accountable to God’s covenant law. Israel’s kings are to wield authority alongside—not over—judges, priests, and prophets. They must also refrain from stockpiling gold for their palace, collecting wives for their harem, or securing horses for their army—all standard royal privileges in the ancient Near East. Instead, God instructs Israel’s kings to meditate on the law and trust God to bless them with all they need.

Israel’s laws also restrict violence. No accusation leads to execution without an investigation and corroborating witnesses, and capital punishment could not be used to avenge an accidental death. In war, as well, Israel must show restraint. Their armies are supposed to rely on God’s power instead of military might, even to the point of sending soldiers home. Israel was to approach most enemy cities (Canaanite towns were a special case) with terms of peace and to spare noncombatants if battle ensued.

This emphasis on personal restraint traces back to Eden. In the video, you’ll see how catastrophe unfolds when humans see something they think is good for life and choose to take it on their terms. Conversely, when humans trust that God freely gives everything good for life, they begin to receive (rather than take) real life.

Reflection Questions

• Today’s passage corresponds to the fifth and sixth commandments. How do you think the regulations for Israel’s authority figures might relate to God’s command to honor one’s parents? What does the second half of today’s reading reveal about God’s prohibition against murder?
• Meditate on the design patterns described in today’s video. Can you think of any other stories that follow the see-desire-take sequence?