What does "the LORD your God has not permitted" imply about obedience? Setting the Scene “Though these nations, which you will dispossess, listen to conjurers and diviners, the LORD your God has not permitted you to do so.” (Deuteronomy 18:14) Why God Says “Not Permitted” • God’s ownership: He calls Himself “the LORD your God,” underscoring covenant authority. • Divine exclusivity: He alone sets the standard for what is right; competing voices must be silenced. • Protective love: Prohibitions guard Israel from spiritual danger (Deuteronomy 18:9–13). Obedience Begins with God’s Boundaries • Not everything desirable is permissible (1 Corinthians 6:12). • True worship stays inside lines God draws; stepping outside is rebellion (1 Samuel 15:22–23). • God’s “no” can be as instructive as His “yes,” teaching discernment (Hebrews 5:14). Obedience as Trust • To obey a restriction is to trust the Restricter. • Israel need not seek hidden knowledge; God promises a prophet to reveal His will (Deuteronomy 18:15). • Today, Christ is that ultimate revelation; we trust Him instead of forbidden sources (Hebrews 1:1–2). Practical Takeaways • Check every influence: books, media, and practices—does God permit them? • When culture normalizes what God forbids, obedience may feel isolating, yet it anchors us in truth (Romans 12:2). • Love proves itself in loyalty: “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” (John 14:15) Living the Lesson – A clear command removes room for negotiation. – God’s character guarantees His rules are good, even when they limit us. – Obedience is less about bare compliance and more about relational allegiance: “You are to follow the LORD your God and fear Him… hold fast to Him.” (Deuteronomy 13:4) Final Word “The LORD your God has not permitted” frames obedience as a grateful, trusting response to a wise, covenant-keeping God who sets loving boundaries for His people’s good and His own glory. |
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