July 12, 2024 • Dr. John Neufeld • Deuteronomy 4:36–43
Only the naive think of freedom as being free of laws and rules. There is no such thing - not at home or work, civil society or driving! Laws do not suppress freedom, but give it rails to run on. Today Dr. John teaches on the three reasons why God gave Israel the Law. May we see in that reflection the same intent of God for each one of us.
A married couple may renew their wedding vows. The renewal is not a rejection of the first vows, but a refreshed commitment in a new time and place, perhaps with deeper devotion. Deuteronomy is a renewal of God's covenant with Israel. In this series, Dr. John teaches about that renewal from the first four chapters. Perhaps it is time for us to renew our own commitment to Jesus.
Monotheism
July 10, 2024 • Dr. John Neufeld • Deuteronomy 4:32–35
Christians tend to take for granted the theology of monotheism - there is only one God and He is Jehovah. We've lost the radical impact such a claim has in a polytheistic world. There are not various gods ruling different aspects of life. There is no co-dependency between God and creation. God does not compete with other gods for our worship. God is One and there is One God.
The Consequences of Idolatry
July 10, 2024 • Dr. John Neufeld • Deuteronomy 4:25–31
Our society exalts celebrities, chases after financial gain, applauds comfort and luxury, and focuses on the latest trends and entertainment. Idolatry abounds around us. Today we hear Moses point to the consequences of an idolatrous people. As Dr. John points out, every Christian in an idolatrous society must flee anything that takes the place of our God in our hearts.
The Dangers of Idolatry
July 9, 2024 • Dr. John Neufeld • Deuteronomy 4:15–24
Idolatry is the practice of creating a shape or form of God for worship; but God has no form. Idolatry is also the exaltation of any created thing above God. God is always to be first in our hearts. While our culture may not get carried away with the first understanding of idolatry, we certainly do with the second. Listen as Dr. John points us to the dangers of our own idolatry.
Lest You Forget
July 8, 2024 • Dr. John Neufeld • Deuteronomy 4:9–14
While attempting to be current and relevant to the times, it is possible for believers to forget what has been. Looking forward, they neglect what God has done. On the threshold of the promised land, Moses calls Israel to remember the works and words of God. They were to recall the foundation on which they stood and pass it on to their children. Good counsel for us all.
A married couple may renew their wedding vows. The renewal is not a rejection of the first vows, but a refreshed commitment in a new time and place, perhaps with deeper devotion. Deuteronomy is a renewal of God's covenant with Israel. In this series, Dr. John teaches about that renewal from the first four chapters. Perhaps it is time for us to renew our own commitment to Jesus.
Keeping the Commands
July 5, 2024 • Dr. John Neufeld • Deuteronomy 4:1–8
Knowing that Israel will enter the promised land without him, what does Moses say to them? Dr. John preaches on the final emphasis of Moses' sermon addressed to Israel on the doorstep of their homeland. The heart of Moses' message was obedience. Israel is cautioned to be faithful to God's commands, recognize the results of disobedience and consider the rewards of following God's direction. It is a caution that still stands for us today.
A married couple may renew their wedding vows. The renewal is not a rejection of the first vows, but a refreshed commitment in a new time and place, perhaps with deeper devotion. Deuteronomy is a renewal of God's covenant with Israel. In this series, Dr. John teaches about that renewal from the first four chapters. Perhaps it is time for us to renew our own commitment to Jesus.
When God Says 'No'
July 4, 2024 • Dr. John Neufeld • Deuteronomy 3:23–29
God can say "No!" It is not an answer we embrace easily, but we would be mistaken to think that God must always concede to our requests. Moses wanted to enter the promised land, but God denied it. He would not be allowed to enter the very inheritance He had spent his life leading Israel towards. Listen as Dr. John explains God's answer. Note that even in God's refusal, there is grace.
Making Adjustments
July 3, 2024 • Dr. John Neufeld • Deuteronomy 3:12–22
Major projects and journeys often need to be adjusted along the way. That doesn't mean the original plans were wrong. It does mean that wisdom responds to the necessary changes of life. Dr. John speaks of the shift from Moses allowing some of the tribes to make their home on the east side of the Jordan. What didn't change was the commitment and integrity of the nations' solidarity.
A Land of Their Own
July 2, 2024 • Dr. John Neufeld • Deuteronomy 2:31—3:11
Many will remember their first purchase of property or a home. It was with a sense of delight and even pride that you walked into your house or surveyed your boundaries. As Israel was about to enter their first homeland, God warned them about pride and stewardship. They were to remember that God gave them their home and this land came with responsibilities. The same is true for us.
War!
July 1, 2024 • Dr. John Neufeld • Deuteronomy 2:26–37
It's not possible to read Deuteronomy and ignore the question of war. Israel was commanded to wipe out entire cities and nations. We ask, "How could a loving God allow, even command, the death of men, women and children?" It is this inescapable question that Dr. John addresses in today's message. Listen as we hear the themes of justice and mercy played out through the agency of Israel.
A married couple may renew their wedding vows. The renewal is not a rejection of the first vows, but a refreshed commitment in a new time and place, perhaps with deeper devotion. Deuteronomy is a renewal of God's covenant with Israel. In this series, Dr. John teaches about that renewal from the first four chapters. Perhaps it is time for us to renew our own commitment to Jesus.
The Land of Promise
June 28, 2024 • Dr. John Neufeld • Deuteronomy 2:13–25
We refer to the land Israel was to possess as the "land of promise." It was not the "land of the conquered" or the "land of the defeated." It is territory that is given to Israel by the covenantal grace of God. It's true that Israel would have to fight for it - but ultimately it is given by God; God who rules over every nation and territory. God alone raises nations and brings them low. Israel could not boast of military might or skill. Every nation must acknowledge God, who is King over all.
A married couple may renew their wedding vows. The renewal is not a rejection of the first vows, but a refreshed commitment in a new time and place, perhaps with deeper devotion. Deuteronomy is a renewal of God's covenant with Israel. In this series, Dr. John teaches about that renewal from the first four chapters. Perhaps it is time for us to renew our own commitment to Jesus.
Not My Will
June 27, 2024 • Dr. John Neufeld • Deuteronomy 2:1–13
It's common when we make a journey to plan the details by our own wishes. We map the route and choose the hotels. Today Dr. John reminds us that while Israel journeyed for 40 years in the wilderness, they were still led by the will of God. Despite their rebellion, He graced with His guidance. They continually faced the choice, "God's way or our way." The lessons of faith and submission were always before them. Just like us.
The Result of Unbelief
June 26, 2024 • Dr. John Neufeld • Deuteronomy 1:34–46
Video games give multiple lives. Golfers can claim a "mulligans." Some stores grant time in which you can exchange your purchases. But many of our decisions are irreversible with consequences we cannot avoid. Israel decided to disobey at Kadesh Barnea. They reaped the death of an entire generation in the wilderness. Would they want a "re-do" if they knew the outcome? For them and us, sin always leaves a stain. God help us to respond with faithful obedience at the very start.
The Damage of Unbelief
June 25, 2024 • Dr. John Neufeld • Deuteronomy 1:26–33
Opportunities can be met with anything from gullibility to cynicism. But there is something else we need to consider, the spectrum of fear to faith. At the doorstep of the promised land, Moses reminded his current generation of how the previous generation failed. Their faith gave way to their fears. Listen as Dr. John points to the three warning signs that our fear is louder than our faith.
The Opportunity of Faith
June 24, 2024 • Dr. John Neufeld • Deuteronomy 1:19–25
We can all point to missed opportunities in our lives. A job we turned down. An investment we didn't make. A friendship we ignored. While we may have regrets, it is an entirely different matter if we spurn God's invitation. Despite the promise of God, the urging of Moses and the evidence of "milk and honey," Israel rejected God's opportunity before them.
A married couple may renew their wedding vows. The renewal is not a rejection of the first vows, but a refreshed commitment in a new time and place, perhaps with deeper devotion. Deuteronomy is a renewal of God's covenant with Israel. In this series, Dr. John teaches about that renewal from the first four chapters. Perhaps it is time for us to renew our own commitment to Jesus.
