Deuteronomy 12:8

You are not to do as we are doing here today, where everyone does what seems right in his own eyes.

Study Bible

You are not to do as we are doing here today
This phrase refers to the transitional period for the Israelites as they moved from a nomadic lifestyle in the wilderness to settling in the Promised Land. During their time in the wilderness, worship practices were more flexible due to the lack of a permanent place of worship. The phrase underscores the need for a shift from temporary practices to a more structured and centralized form of worship, which would be established in the land God was giving them. This transition reflects the broader biblical theme of moving from chaos to order, as seen in the creation narrative in Genesis.

where everyone does what seems right in his own eyes
This part of the verse highlights the individualistic approach to worship and moral decision-making that was prevalent during the time of the Judges, as echoed in Judges 21:25: "In those days there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes." This period was marked by moral and spiritual anarchy, which often led to idolatry and disobedience to God's commands. The call in Deuteronomy is for a return to covenant faithfulness and obedience to God's laws, which would be facilitated by a centralized place of worship. This phrase also foreshadows the need for a righteous king, ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who perfectly embodies and enforces God's will.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The author of Deuteronomy, delivering God's laws and instructions to the Israelites.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who are being prepared to enter the Promised Land.

3. Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which God promised to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

4. Wilderness
The place where the Israelites wandered for 40 years before entering the Promised Land.

5. Canaan
The land that the Israelites are about to enter, where they are to establish a society based on God's laws.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Law
The Israelites are instructed to follow God's commands rather than their own inclinations. This teaches us the importance of adhering to God's Word as the ultimate authority in our lives.

Avoiding Relativism
The warning against doing what seems right in one's own eyes is a caution against moral relativism. As Christians, we are called to uphold absolute truths found in Scripture.

Community and Order
God's instructions aim to establish a community based on His order and justice. We should strive to build our communities on biblical principles, promoting peace and righteousness.

Personal Accountability
Each individual is responsible for aligning their actions with God's will. This requires regular self-examination and a commitment to spiritual growth.

Preparation for God's Promises
Just as the Israelites were being prepared to enter the Promised Land, we must prepare our hearts and lives to receive God's promises by living according to His Word.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the context of Deuteronomy 12:8 help us understand the importance of following God's commands rather than our own desires?

2. In what ways can the warning against doing what is right in one's own eyes be applied to modern-day decision-making?

3. How do the themes in Deuteronomy 12:8 relate to the moral and spiritual challenges faced by the Israelites in the Book of Judges?

4. What practical steps can we take to ensure that our actions align with God's will, as encouraged in Romans 12:2?

5. How can we foster a community that reflects the order and justice God desires, as outlined in Deuteronomy 12:8?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Judges 17:6 and 21:25
These verses echo the theme of everyone doing what is right in their own eyes, highlighting the chaos and moral decline that occurs when God's laws are not followed.

Proverbs 14:12
This verse warns that there is a way that seems right to a person, but its end is the way of death, emphasizing the danger of relying on human judgment over divine guidance.

Romans 12:2
Encourages believers to be transformed by the renewing of their minds, aligning their actions with God's will rather than conforming to the world.