The Cure for Self-Righteousness. (Deuteronomy 9.1-10:11)

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Study Notes:

Introduction

• Self-righteousness: Often associated with the Pharisees in the New Testament.
• Historical example: The Pharisees are classic examples, but all humans struggle with pride and self-righteousness to some degree.
• Central question: How do we get rid of self-righteousness?
• Biblical insight: Deuteronomy 9:1-10:11 provides guidance.

Context of Deuteronomy 9:1-10:11

• Moses' sermons: Deuteronomy is a series of sermons delivered by Moses before the Israelites enter the Promised Land.
• Historical journey:
  • Left Egypt
  • Travelled to Mount Sinai
  • Moved to Kadesh Barnea where they sent twelve spies
  • Wandered in the wilderness due to unbelief
  • Now, about to cross the Jordan River under Joshua’s leadership.

Main Theme: Dangers of Self-Righteousness and Pride

• Moses' warning: Not to fall into the traps of self-righteousness and pride.
• Focus: “The Cure for Self-Righteousness.”

Three Main Parts of the Passage

Part 1: Deuteronomy 9:1-6

• Key verses:
  • Verse 1: "Hear, O Israel!"
  • Verse 3: "Therefore, understand today..."
  • Verse 4: "Do not think..."
  • Verse 6: "Therefore, understand..."
• Pattern: Hear, understand, don’t think, understand.
• Realization: Israelites will face a daunting task, but it’s the Lord who will lead them and give them victory.

Part 2: Deuteronomy 9:7-24

• Reminder of rebellion: Israelites’ history of rebellion, especially the incident with the golden calf.
• Moses' intercession: Moses fasted and prayed for the Israelites, highlighting their persistent disobedience.
• Unbelief and disobedience: Connection between lack of faith and failure to obey God.
• Emphasis: Not about their righteousness but God’s promise and grace.

Part 3: Deuteronomy 9:25-10:11

• God’s mercy: Despite their sin, God renews the covenant.
• Renewal of the tablets: New set of commandments as a sign of God’s grace.
• Message: God’s faithfulness despite Israel’s stubbornness.

Lessons for Us Today

• Understanding grace: Recognize that God’s favour is not because of our righteousness.
• Humility: Accepting that we are all, by nature, stiff-necked and rebellious.
• Dependence on God: Our success and blessings are due to God’s grace, not our merit.
• Response to grace: Living humbly and gratefully, compelled by the sacrifice of Christ.

Conclusion

• Cure for self-righteousness: Understanding and embracing God’s grace.
• Response: Humility and gratitude for God’s unmerited favor and faithfulness.
• Final thought: We are chosen, saved, and blessed not because of who we are, but because of who God is. This realization should lead us to live our lives fully devoted to Him.

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