Week 14 - The Old Testament
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Family Life - Small Group Warm Up Question:
Which abilities do you fear losing as you age (memory, walking, health, independence, etc.)?
The Old Testament
Deuteronomy 1-15
1. Deuteronomy starts out saying that “Moses spoke to the people of Israel according to all that the LORD had given him in commandment to them” (Deuteronomy 1:3). What temptations do you think Moses faced in speaking to the Israelites? What temptations do you face when speaking to others about the Bible (God’s commandments)? What parts of the Bible are easy to share? What parts of the Bible are harder to share? What are evidences of a good pastor preaching the “whole counsel of God” (Acts 20:27)?
2. Deuteronomy is how God communicates his final words to Israel. He repeats some of the history and commands of God as well as sharing new commands. If you had a short time left on earth to write down, video record, or speak out your final words, what would you say? Why?
3. Deuteronomy 1-3 highlights some of the giants in the Promised land, namely the Rephaim, the Nephalim/Anakim, the Zuzim, the Emim, and the Amorites. Previously in Genesis 6:1-4, it seems that while demons (fallen angels, “sons of God”) did unite sexually with women, perhaps giving birth to the Nephilim giants (pre-flood). These stories of giants can seem quite intimidating for those going into battle. Why do you think the Lord repeats this history of defeated giants to Israel through Moses? Read Deuteronomy 3:21-22. What enemies does Jesus defeat on the cross? What enemies have you seen Jesus’ victory in your life?
4. While God forgives our sins through Jesus, often we suffer the consequences of our sins. Deuteronomy 3:23-29 recounts that Moses again asks God to allow him to enter the Promised Land. God’s response is described as “angry” and He says “Enough from you; do not speak to me of this matter again.” Can you think of a time in your life when you may have made God angry with your behavior or requests?
5. Deuteronomy 4:2 says “You shall not add to the word that I command you, nor take from it, that you may keep the commandments of the LORD your God that I command you.” Can you name an example of where you see people “adding” to the commandments of the Lord today? How is having our own opinions about God and Christianity a serious form of “adding” to God’s Word? What are ways in which we might be tempted to “take” away commandments of the Lord? How do you see that playing out today?
6. What does it look like to “keep your soul diligently” (Deuteronomy 4:9)? Why is it important?
7. What are some of the best ways you have found to make God’s truths known “known to your children and your children’s children”? (Deuteronomy 4:9) Read Deuteronomy 6:7-9. How does this help us to think about keeping God’s Word a priority in our lives and for the sake of the next generation? What challenges do you see ahead for your kids and grandkids?
8. Sin is described as “putting the Lord your God to the test” (Deuteronomy 6:16) when they argued with Moses about water at Massah/Meribah (Exodus 17:7) and said “Is the Lord among us or not?” When was a season when you complained about or doubted God’s provision or presence with you? Why is that such a serious sin? As a parent, how have you experienced something similar with your kids sinning against you?
9. Look at God’s warning in Deuteronomy 7:1-5. What do you know of Israel’s obedience to this command? Why did God give them such a strict command with such consequences?
10. Read Deuteronomy 10:12-13. How is this such a great summary of our purpose in life?
General Discussion Questions
• What did you learn about humanity or yourself in the readings this week? About your identity, character or purpose as a Christ-follower?
• Application Questions: How do you need to respond to and apply these truths to your life? (Is there a sin to avoid? A command to obey? An example to follow? A prayer to offer? A truth to remember or memorize? An attitude to change? A teaching to share?)