Tuesday, March 11

Deuteronomy 13 - 15

Laws for prophets are given. These strict guidelines left no room for error. Either what the prophet said would come to pass EXACTLY as foretold, or the prophet would forfeit his life. The message "Let's abandon God" was also not one to be tolerated - no matter who gave the message.

Dietary laws are outlined. Animals allowed to be eaten would have both a cloven hoof and would chew their cud. Many animals were eliminated from possibility because of this; and a partial listing is given. There were also regulations regarding the tithes that Israel would offer to the Lord. Far from the 10% we normally call to mind, the nation of Israel's tithe was closer to 23%!

Every 7th year would be a "sabbatical year" when the land would lay fallow, debts would be forgiven and slaves would be released. Variations in these regulations were outlined; but the principle was clear: Regular and frequent reminders of God's presence and personality were not only needed but required.

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