各位弟兄姊妹，平安。我們今天的讀經進度開始申命記的第四章，開始談到律法的部分。
在我們開始之前，我們必須要來特別強調一些事情。在讀律法書的時候，我們真正要來思考的事情有以下幾個。當我們用這樣眼光去讀的時候，我們就會看得更清楚，而不會只是看到一條一條的規矩，而是看到背後律法的精神。
首先是歷史的進程角度。上帝跟以色列人立約的時代是在西元前1400多年，以色列人在曠野的時候。所以首先要有歷史性的角度，看這些律法的方式要用當時的時代背景來看。同時，我們也要明白上帝立約的精神以及上帝律法的精神是保護和照顧他的子民，這是神學性的角度。所以當我們用這個角度來看的時候，我們就明白律法的背景跟立法者的心意。
我們打個比方，就像一個父親對他的三歲小孩說，"你不可以去廚房"，這是一個律法。但父親的心意是讓孩子遠離廚房裡面的危險工具、熱源、熱水器等等的。而當這個孩子到了一個可以自己照顧自己、可以駕馭自己的技術的年紀，比如說到了15、16歲的時候，這時候父親就可以給他更多的自由。讓他在除方切菜幫忙煮飯等等。
其實在新舊約裡面的差別也是這樣的，我們舉個例子。
在舊約中，提到了關於行淫的規範，目的是為了保護當時的社會架構，讓人們建立正確的夫妻關係，並尊重男女之間的關係。然而，到了新約時代，耶穌並未放棄這一原則，反而更加強調了它。耶穌教導人們，若有人動淫念，就是犯姦淫了（馬太福音5:28）。耶穌並未過於強調具體行為的罪行，而更注重內心的純潔。耶穌告訴我們罪的源頭是從心開始的，而行為只是心中罪念的實行。
他的目標是使律法不是刻在石板上，而是刻在心版上(哥林多後書3:3)。這樣律法更加堅固，同時清晰地詮釋律法的精神。當他引用"要盡心、盡性、盡意、盡力愛神"以及"愛人如己"時，這些都是原則。上帝的律法的總原則就是愛。耶穌的教導強調了這一點。保羅在加拉太書5:13-14也強調弟兄們，你們蒙召是要得自由，只是不可將你們的自由當做放縱情慾的機會，總要用愛心互相服侍。 14因為全律法都包在「愛人如己」這一句話之內了。
愛就是律法的總綱。這並不是要廢除律法，而是說愛是律法的完成，因為愛能包容並遵守所有的律法。耶穌基督有完全的愛，他完全了律法。我們辦不到的事情，耶穌為我們辦到了，我們在他裡面，就守全了律法。
新約中的教導強調律法的精神，特別是愛的原則，而不是形式主義。這使律法更加有深度和意義，而不僅僅是規則和條款的堆積。所以新舊約是歷史進程的過程，首先要注意的是歷史的角度。
第二，是我們去了解律法的涵蓋面相當廣泛。所有律法裡面，我們會看到許多的原則，道德層面的，也有民事法律層面的，有婚姻層面的，有關於經濟層面的等等。我們一點一點來讀的時候，你會發現這裡面包含了相當多非常寶貴的原則，到今天還是相當重要的原則。
首先關於民事部分這個很好的安排，提到了關於懲罰、跟保護個人的財產這些原則，到了今天我們的法律跟當時的律法其實是非常相近的，這是法律層面的教訓。其中還關乎到潔淨和不潔淨的食物，這是屬於衛生層面的教訓，再來還有關於道德層面的。是有關於經濟層面的，像是10分之一的奉獻以及豁免年的原則。這些其實在許多的舊約裡面有很多很多珍貴的教訓。這些原則讓我們去看是看原則，而不要固守成規。畢竟，3500年前的世界跟今天的世界是不一樣的。所以當我們閱讀律法的時候，我們要抓到的是精神，去思考的是教訓，不是拘泥於具體的法規。重要的是思考現在到底該怎麼做，而是該用什麼原則去看待事情。就像孩子跟大人一樣，我們現在在耶穌基督裡已經成為大人。我們要抓到上帝的心意，而法規要與時俱進，當我們用一個正確的心態去看律法的時候，我們就會重新學到非常多的教訓以及很好的智慧。
雖然有一些內容是我們今天不需要太過關注的，比如在21世紀的今天，我們的衛生條件足夠好，所以有些東西我們可以處理而不必再擔心衛生問題，但是在3500多年前的巴勒斯坦，那個地方資源有限，所以很多東西實際上是應該避免食用的。這部分是關於衛生的條例，我們以後會慢慢地去談論。
這是第二點，舊約的律法中包含了許多關於民事、法律、衛生、經濟、道德等各個層面的教訓，值得我們深入思考和學習。
第三，是當我們去理解立約者的心理，律法的目的不是限制和懲罰，而是保護和照顧。我再說一次，律法的目的不是限制和懲罰，而是保護和照顧。
若我們要明白到立約者的心，是父親的心，到今天，他仍然是我們的父神，從來沒有改變過。所以他所立的規矩是出於愛，他立的心意是出於愛，為了保護人。因為人有罪，任何時候的人，在肉身之中的我們都有罪的問題和犯罪的可能性。所以上帝為了保護我們，要適當地限制我們，讓我們能夠盡可能遠離罪，回到他的面前。
這就像我們對待孩子一樣，我們在孩子身邊設下原則和規範，比如說，不可以碰熱水器、不可以玩刀子，長大到青少年的時候，不可以太晚回家，晚上幾點之前一定要回到家裡，我們會限制孩子不能去酒吧、不能去飆車、不能去一些聲色場所、不能抽菸等等。這一切的本意是我們知道這些地方的背後有不好的事情，所以我們勸著孩子不要靠近這些地方。
當你用這個眼光去看的時候，你會明白在當時的迦南地裡面有許多在我們眼中就是這些壞朋友、酒吧、聲色場所、黑幫的不良少年等等一樣存在的民族。而上帝對待以色列人同樣的是告訴他們說你要遠離這些人，你要除滅這些人。在整個歷史中，我們一點一點地來看，一點一點的去思考當時的以色列人在什麼樣的背景之下，以及上帝是怎麼引領他們一步一步建立屬於自己的民族性。
這民族性也很重要，因為在接下來的歷史中，他們肩負了把福音帶給外邦人的這個工做。記得傳福音給外邦人的，還是猶太人，就是保羅跟使徒們。所以雖然猶太人在歷史中犯了一些錯誤，很多錯誤，就如同我們在青少年時期可能也犯過一些錯誤，甚至幹過一些很愚蠢的事情。但父母的慈愛和上帝的慈愛不改變，終究會帶領我們走上正路。我們曾經所犯過的錯誤，我們曾經所做過的一些蠢事，最終成為了我們如何能夠教育我們下一代的原則和學習的經驗。
所以我們複習一下：首先的角度是歷史的進程角度，新舊約是歷史漸進式的啟示。第二是律法涵蓋的層面相當廣泛，我們可以深入研究。第三是立法者，也就是上帝的心意是為了保護和照顧。從這三個角度去思考律法的含意、原則和立約者的心意確實可以幫助我們更深入地理解聖經中的教訓。接下來，當我們從第四章開始學習有關律法的事情，我們將有機會深入探討更多有智慧的教訓。
申命記 4:6-8
6所以你們要謹守遵行；這就是你們在萬民眼前的智慧、聰明。他們聽見這一切律例，必說：『這大國的人真是有智慧，有聰明！』 7哪一大國的人有神與他們相近，像耶和華－我們的神、在我們求告他的時候與我們相近呢？ 8又哪一大國有這樣公義的律例典章、像我今日在你們面前所陳明的這一切律法呢？
這段經文強調遵守和謹守律法的重要性。這段經文說明，透過遵行律法，以色列民將展現智慧和聰明，使他們在萬民眼前顯得特別。這也強調了律法的價值和其在當時的社會中的重要性。這些原則和教訓在今天依然具有智慧和價值，並且律法的教訓成為了世界上的燈塔，引導人們前進。
第九節摩西又強調：9「你只要謹慎，殷勤保守你的心靈，免得忘記你親眼所看見的事，又免得你一生、這事離開你的心；總要傳給你的子子孫孫。
正確的教育下一代是我們每一代人的責任。他強調的是 “保守你的心靈”因為一生的果效是由心發出 (箴言 4:23) 。讓我們開始細細品嚐律法的智慧吧。
感謝各位的聆聽，我是馬克。
Dear brothers and sisters, peace be with you. Today we begin our study in Deuteronomy chapter four, delving into the aspects of the law.
Before we dive in, it's essential to emphasize a few things. When reading the Book of the Law, there are several key points we should consider. Approaching it with this perspective allows us to gain a more profound understanding, beyond merely perceiving it as a set of rules, but rather comprehending the spirit behind the law.
Firstly, we must consider the historical context. The covenant between God and the Israelites took place over 3,400 years ago during their time in the wilderness. Therefore, it is crucial to view these laws through the lens of that historical era. Additionally, we should grasp the spiritual aspect of God's covenant and His laws, which are designed to protect and care for His people. This is the theological perspective. When we approach the law with this mindset, we can better understand its historical background and the intentions of the creator of the law.
Let's use an analogy to illustrate this point, much like a father telling his three-year-old child, "You can't go into the kitchen." This is a law. However, the father's intention is to keep the child away from potential dangers in the kitchen, such as sharp objects, heat sources, or hot water kettles. As the child grows and reaches an age where they can take care of themselves, perhaps around 15 or 16 years old, the father can grant them more freedom, allowing them to help in the kitchen, like cutting vegetables or assisting with cooking.
The distinction between the Old and New Testaments can be understood in a similar way.
Consider this example:
In the Old Testament, there were regulations regarding adultery. The purpose was to protect the societal structure of that time, encouraging people to establish proper marital relationships and respect the relationships between men and women. However, in the New Testament era, Jesus did not abandon this principle but rather emphasized it even more. Jesus taught that if someone looks at another person with lust, they have committed adultery in their heart (Matthew 5:28). Jesus didn't overly emphasize the specific act of wrongdoing but focused on the purity of one's heart. He taught that sin originates in the heart, and actions are the outward manifestation of sinful thoughts.
His goal was to have the law not engraved on stone tablets but on tablets of the heart (2 Corinthians 3:3). This makes the law even more steadfast while providing a clear interpretation of its spirit. When he references "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind" and "Love your neighbor as yourself," these are principles. The overarching principle of God's law is love. Jesus emphasized this in his teachings. Paul also emphasized this in Galatians 5:13-14 when he said, "You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love. For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'"
Love is the summary of the law. This does not mean abolishing the law but rather stating that love fulfills the law because love can encompass and fulfill all the requirements of the law. Jesus Christ embodied perfect love and fulfilled the law entirely. What we cannot do, Jesus accomplished for us, and in Him, we fulfill the law.
The teachings in the New Testament emphasize the spirit of the law, especially the principle of love, rather than mere formalism. This adds depth and meaning to the law, moving beyond a mere collection of rules and regulations. Therefore, it's important to approach the Old and New Testaments as part of an ongoing historical process, with attention to their historical context.
Secondly, we must understand that the law covers a wide range of areas. Within all the laws, we find numerous valuable principles, encompassing moral, civil, marital, economic aspects, and more. As we read through them step by step, we discover many enduring and important principles that remain relevant today.
First, regarding the civil aspects, there are principles mentioned concerning punishment and the protection of individuals' property. Today, our laws bear a significant resemblance to those of that time. This represents the legal dimension of the teachings. Additionally, there are teachings related to cleanliness and uncleanliness of food, which pertain to hygiene. There are also moral aspects to consider. It touches upon economic matters like tithing and the principle of the Year of Jubilee. These Old Testament teachings provide numerous valuable lessons. They encourage us to focus on principles rather than being bound by rigid rules. After all, the world 3,500 years ago was different from today. So when we read the law, we should grasp its spirit and reflect on its teachings, not fixate on specific regulations. What's important is to think about how we should approach things now and what principles should guide us. Just like children growing into adulthood, we, as Christians in Jesus Christ, should understand God's intentions. Regulations need to evolve with the times. When we approach the law with the right mindset, we can rediscover many valuable lessons and wisdom.
While there may be certain aspects that are no longer relevant to us today, such as health regulations in the 21st century, where our hygiene conditions are generally good enough, it's crucial to recognize that in the limited-resource environment of ancient Palestine over 3,500 years ago, some things needed to be avoided due to genuine health concerns. We will delve into these hygiene regulations later.
This is the second point: the Old Testament law encompasses teachings on various aspects including civil, legal, health, economic, and moral dimensions, all of which are worth deep consideration and learning.
To grasp the heart of the Covenant maker, we must recognize that His heart is like that of a father. Even today, He remains our Father God, and He has never changed. So the rules He established are rooted in love, and His intentions are born out of love to protect His people. Because humanity is inherently sinful, at any given time, we have the potential for sin and wrongdoing. Therefore, God, out of love for us, sets appropriate limits to keep us as far away from sin as possible and to draw us back to His presence.
This is similar to how we raise our children. We establish principles and guidelines for them, such as not touching the hot water heater, not playing with knives, and returning home before a certain time when they become teenagers. We restrict them from going to places like bars, engaging in street racing, visiting certain questionable places, or smoking, among other things. The intention behind all of this is our awareness that there are undesirable aspects behind these places. Thus, we advise our children to stay away from them.
When you view the Old Testament law from this perspective, you'll understand that in ancient Canaan, there were many nations akin to what we might consider today as bad influences, bars, questionable establishments, and delinquent youth akin to gangs. In this context, God was instructing the Israelites to stay away from these people and even to eliminate them. As we examine the history piece by piece, we can reflect on the backdrop against which the Israelites were living and how God was guiding them to establish their unique identity over time.
This sense of identity was crucial because, in the subsequent history, they bore the responsibility of bringing the Gospel to the Gentiles. It's important to remember that the ones who carried the message to the Gentiles were still Jewish people, such as Paul and the apostles. So, even though the Jewish people made mistakes throughout history, just as we make mistakes in our teenage years, even doing some foolish things, the love of our parents and the love of God remain unchanged and eventually lead us to the right path. The mistakes we once made and the foolish things we did ultimately become the principles and learning experiences that guide us in educating the next generation.
So, let's recap: Firstly, we approach the Old and New Testaments from a historical progression perspective. Secondly, the law covers a wide range of aspects, allowing us to delve into in-depth study. Thirdly, the legislator, which is God, intended to protect and care for His people. Viewing the law from these three angles can indeed help us gain a deeper understanding of the meanings, principles, and intentions of the Bible. As we move on to study more about the law starting from Chapter 4, we will have the opportunity to explore even more wisdom within its teachings.
6Observe them carefully, for this will show your wisdom and understanding to the nations, who will hear about all these decrees and say, “Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people.” 7What other nation is so great as to have their gods near them the way the Lord our God is near us whenever we pray to him? 8And what other nation is so great as to have such righteous decrees and laws as this body of laws I am setting before you today? DEUTERONOMY 4:6-8
This passage emphasizes the importance of obeying and carefully keeping the law. It explains that by observing the law, the Israelites would display wisdom and understanding, making them stand out among all nations. It also highlights the value of the law and its significance in the society of that time. These principles and teachings still hold wisdom and value today, and the lessons from the law have become a beacon in the world, guiding people forward.
In verse 9, Moses further emphasizes: "Only take care, and keep your soul diligently, lest you forget the things that your eyes have seen, and lest they depart from your heart all the days of your life. Make them known to your children and your children's children."
Properly educating the next generation is the responsibility of each generation. He emphasizes "keeping your soul diligently" "Above all else, guard your heart,
for everything you do flows from it." (Proverbs 4:23). Let us begin to savor the wisdom of the law.
Thank you all for listening. This is Mark.
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