Read: Exodus 19:3-6; Exod. 33:14-16; Exod. 34:10; Leviticus 20:22-26; Lev. 26:11-13; Numbers 15:14-16; Deuteronomy 4:5-8; Deut. 7:6-9; Deut. 12:29-31; Deut. 26:16-19; Deut. 28:1; Deut. 28:9-10.
There are two main groups of people identified in these scripture texts: the people of Israel, and “the nations.” The people of Israel were set apart by God to be his holy people and treasured possession. By entering into the Mosaic covenant, they received his blessings and the accompanying responsibilities.
The nations are the second main group of people. As with the covenant made with Abraham, the Mosaic covenant had a purpose beyond the relationship between God and the people of Israel. The purpose included “all peoples on earth” (Deut. 28:9-10). The nations would see the presence of the Lord dwelling among the nation of Israel, the awesome work of the Lord, and a righteous and just society. The people of Israel were to be the example, or showcase nation, to the rest of earth’s human population. As the people of Israel worshiped God alone, the nations would also have the opportunity to know who the Lord is, be redeemed, and be made holy. If people from the nations wanted to permanently live among them and become holy, God would accept them with the same responsibilities as those with a Hebrew origin.
- What kinds of blessings and responsibilities accompany the Mosaic covenant?
- What do these verses tell us about God’s mission?
- In considering God’s mission and purpose, is there any people group that is more important than the others? Why?
- What blessings and responsibilities accompany followers of Jesus?
- What is my responsibility to the nations? What is our church’s responsibility to the nations?
