Look backward to grace in order to move forward in obedience.

Mark had been talking about the book of Deuteronomy for about 5 minutes on Sunday when it occurred to me that this is a book of the Bible that may be particularly useful for teenagers. I think it was this sentence that sealed it for me: “Deuteronomy is an act of war against forgetfulness.”

Granted, there are many teens who remember a lot and many adults who are forgetful. But the point is that a knowledge of history prepares us for the future. Most teenagers stand to benefit from learning about God’s gracious dealings with his people, with his church, even with their own parents. And a knowledge of God’s gracious dealings with his people throughout history positions us to move forward through life in obedience.

Mark explained the basic outline of Deuteronomy:

1. Moses’ first speech: 1:1-4:43. Time to take the land.
2. Moses’ second speech: 4:44-28:68. Learn God’s commands and do them.
3. Moses’ third speech: 29-30. Renew the covenant.
4. Moses’ last days: 31-34. Prepare for life without Moses.

Mark also explained that we are to look back to God’s gracious rescue, gracious covenant, and gracious forgiveness. This will motivate us to move forward and love God, worship God’s way, and keep God’s commands.

Now, the whole Bible is about Jesus in some way, right? Where do we find Jesus in this? Mark elaborated:

• Moses was a great leader and gave Israel the law, but a greater mediator was needed.
• Israel was God’s people, but their story is about how they kept breaking God’s laws. A better covenant was needed.
• Jesus comes onto the scene and perfectly fulfills these two needs: He keep the commandments perfectly. He is the better mediator, and He makes the better covenant.

Mark left us with this simple question: Where is God calling you to move forward in obedience? Ask God for wisdom and illumination, and talk to your parents about where he is calling you to change.

Categories: Monday Matters, five15 blog