Sermon – February 26, 2017 | CROSSWAY CHRISTIAN CHURCH

Sermon – February 26, 2017

February 28, 2017 by Doug W

Introduction

Today, we start a new sermon series looking at the book of Deuteronomy. This sermon, then, will be slightly atypical, as it serves primarily to introduce the book of Deuteronomy to us, along with its themes. First, however, if we have the NT, why not just spend our time there, and deal with the OT only when needed? We should study the OT because:

1. It’s Scripture

Paul tells us in 2 Timothy 3:16 that “all Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable…” Simply put, because Deuteronomy is Scripture, it is to be studied by Christians for our own edification.

2. It’s a different perspective

We sometimes only view the OT from the location of the New. It is helpful, then, to see the New from the Old, as it will give us a slightly different perspective on the grace of God through Jesus Christ, and the unfolding of God’s revelation.

3. It’s difficult

The center of the OT is undoubtedly the law, and the law is also undoubtedly a difficult thing for Christians to understand. It is difficult today, it has been difficult throughout Church history, and it was difficult for the NT church. We must, then, be careful to understand it well.

4. It’s the NT’s foundation

If we are to understand the NT, we must understand the Old.

What of Deuteronomy? While many things are important, it will suffice to speak about three things today:

1. The Pentateuch is one book

Deuteronomy must be understood in concert with the other 4 books of the Torah.

2. Deuteronomy explains the Law

Moses is not providing more laws, but explaining the laws that are already given.

3. Moses is both central and outside

Moses gives the sermons of Deuteronomy because he isn’t entering the promise land. While this provides the historical setting for the book, it also helps to divulge its key theme: faith in the promise of God.

Conclusion:

We blessed Christians get to stand on the other side of history. We do not have to wonder at how God would make sinful people holy and righteous before him, for we know and understand the wonders of the work of Jesus Christ! Therefore, let us be all the more diligent in our faith, for that which Moses could only hope for has come to fruition before our very eyes. Praise be to our God!