Bible Study - Obeying God's Law and Teaching the Next Generation

 Obeying God's Law and Teaching the Next Generation

Scripture Readings:

• Deuteronomy 4:1-2, 5-9 – The importance of keeping God's commandments
• Matthew 5:17-19 – Jesus fulfills the Law
• Psalm 78:1-6 – Passing God's teachings to the next generation

The Gift and Responsibility of God’s Law

Many people see God's commandments as rules that restrict them, but in reality, they are a gift that leads to life and wisdom.

Today's readings teach us:

1. God's commandments lead to life and wisdom (Deuteronomy 4).
2. Jesus came to fulfill, not abolish, the Law (Matthew 5).
3. We must pass down God’s truth to the next generation (Psalm 78).

Lent is a time for us to recommit to God's teachings, reflect on our obedience, and ensure that we are sharing His truth with others.

 

I. Keeping God’s Commandments (Deuteronomy 4:1-2, 5-9)

A. The Law is a Path to Life

• Moses reminds Israel:

"Now, Israel, listen to the statutes and ordinances I am teaching you to follow, so that you may live." (Deut. 4:1)

• Obedience to God’s law is not just about rules but about life, wisdom, and righteousness.

B. Do Not Add or Take Away from God's Word

• Moses warns:

"Do not add to what I command you and do not subtract from it." (Deut. 4:2)

• God's Word is perfect—we are called to obey it faithfully rather than change it to fit our desires.

• Are we truly obeying God’s commands, or are we compromising His truth?
• Do we treat God’s Word as a treasure that gives life, or just as a set of religious duties?

II. Jesus Fulfills the Law (Matthew 5:17-19)

A. Jesus Did Not Abolish the Law, He Fulfilled It

• Jesus says:

“Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.” (Matt. 5:17)

• Jesus perfectly obeyed the Law and showed its true meaning.
• Through His life, death, and resurrection, He fulfilled the requirements of the Law and established the new covenant.

B. Keeping the Law with the Right Heart

• Jesus warns:

“Whoever practices and teaches these commands will be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” (Matt. 5:19)

• True obedience is not just external actions but a heart devoted to God.

• Are we following Christ's example of obedience?
• Do we see God's laws as a burden or a guide to holiness?

 

III. Teaching the Next Generation (Psalm 78:1-6)

A. Telling Future Generations About God

• The psalmist declares:

“We will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, His power, and the wonders He has done.” (Psalm 78:4)

• We are called to pass down God's truth so that future generations will remain faithful.

B. Our Responsibility to Teach

• Parents, teachers, and spiritual leaders must instruct children in the ways of the Lord.
• If we do not teach them, they may turn away from God.

• Are we actively sharing God’s truth with the next generation?
• How can we be better examples of faith to others?

 

Living as Faithful Witnesses

1. Obey God’s Word Completely

• God’s commandments lead to wisdom and life (Deuteronomy 4).

2. Follow Jesus, Who Fulfilled the Law

• Jesus showed us how to live out God’s law with a heart of love (Matthew 5).

3. Teach the Next Generation

• We are called to share our faith with others (Psalm 78).

 

Challenge:

• Are we faithfully following God's Word, or do we pick and choose what suits us?
• Are we living as Christ’s disciples, obeying with love rather than obligation?
• Are we teaching and mentoring others in faith?

Let this Lenten season be a time to renew our commitment to God’s truth and pass it on to future generations.