Rules for Everyday Life

We are largely a people, both inside and outside the church, turned inward on ourselves, and inclined to live without respect to God or others. In this passage, God gives his people some rules for everyday life as to how to live a life of love. The verses in this section feel like a random hodgepodge of commandments. And probably when we hear them read, they do not sound particularly relevant. But as we take a deeper look, we will find the principles underlying these commands to be strikingly contemporary and relevant.

Sermon Outline:
I. Look Out for Your Neighbor’s Best Interest

II. Embrace the Distinction Between Male and Female

III. Steward God’s Resources Wisely

IV. Minimize the Risk of Harm to Your Neighbor

V. Maintain Spiritual Integrity

VI. Remember God’s Commandments

Sermon Discussion Questions:

1. What would the world be like if everyone pursued their own truth and their own sense of fulfillment without regard to others? Would it be better or worse and why?

2. We may not have neighbors with animals going astray or getting stuck in a ditch, but what are some practical ways we can look out for the good of our neighbors?
How can we do the same for our enemies?

3. What is the problem with blurring sexual distinctions between male and female? How would you define biblical masculinity and biblical femininity?
How can we properly affirm both in the family and in the church?

4. The law of the parapet around the roof (Deut. 22:8) was to protect family and friends from accidentally falling off the roof.
What are some modern examples of putting this principle of minimizing the risk of harm to our neighbor that we should practice?

5. How did Jesus embody the principles laid out in these laws for our sake? Take some time to give thanks to him for what he has done for you, and asking how you can express your gratitude to him by living out the message of this text.