You’ve probably never considered the book of Deuteronomy as one long funeral sermon, given by a man who knew he would die, to a people aware of his impending death. That’s exactly what we reflected on this last Sunday.
As such, it is a poignant proclamation of the paramount. It is a declaration of how to live in a way that honors the Creator and brings us joy and the abundant life. In a word, it points us to love. But the question is: Do you know what that word means?
If your curiosity and interest has been piqued, I suggest you continue exploring this chapter in The Whole Story that God has written, the book of Deuteronomy. The resources below will help you proceed:
- Review last week’s sermon on Deuteronomy.
- Watch the video that is part of the Bible Project’s Torah series for an extremely helpful overview, and for how this story addresses the condition of the human heart (and what the Bible means when it speaks of ‘the heart’).
- After seven weeks in our series now, your probably used to this last suggestion, and have already bookmarked in your browser the book summaries from the Bible Project. Click here to find a whole page of videos, milestones, study resources, and recommendations for further reading and study on this remarkable book, Deuteronomy.
Finally, the foundational statement in all of Deuteronomy is found in what is known as The Shema.
“Hear, O Israel:
Yahweh our God, Yahweh is one.
You shall love Yahweh your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might.” (Deuteronomy 6:4-5, ESV)
The Bible Project has also created an in-depth study of what I believe is this single greatest summary statement for how to live (if you think that’s an overstatement, just read Jesus and Paul). Be sure to check out their series on The Shema.
As always, please feel free to email me with questions or ideas for The Whole Story. I look forward to seeing you on Sunday, when we will begin the next chapter of the drama by studying the story found in Joshua. Be sure to read it before you come!
Resting in the love of Father, Son, and Spirit,
Pastor Matthew
