April 18, 2022 - Deuteronomy 17-20

Israel is directed to form a government in the new land. Moses instituted judges and a judicial system to establish fairness and equity when disagreements and unjust decisions were made between people. Murder, idolatry, and perverse lifestyles were to be brought before the judges and their judgment was final.

Obedience to these laws was imperative to bring peace to the land. The judges and kings were to study and implement the ordinances of the book of Deuteronomy given by Moses. Each new king was himself to write a copy of this book and keep it for his personal study and referral before rendering decisions. (17:18-20).

All forms of government are imperfect apart from the theocracy of God, whether it be an authoritarian, democratic, dictatorship, or imperial rule. However, all governments are made to maintain order and establish a system of justice.

Believers are commanded to pray for those who rule over them and to be subject to those rulers so that God can be glorified. This week pray for your city, county, state, and federal leaders. "Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God" (Romans 13:1).