Chapter Summary

Law of the offering of the firstfruits.

Discussion Questions for Deuteronomy, Chapter 26

1. Deuteronomy 26:1-11 describes the ritual of presenting the firstfruits to the Lord. What do you think is the significance of this ritual, and how might it have reinforced the Israelites' relationship with God? How can we mimic this in our lives today?
2. The Israelites were instructed to recite a confession of faith while presenting their offerings. Why do you think it was essential for them to retell the story of their ancestors and God's faithfulness during this ceremony? How might a confession of faith be useful for us today?
3. Deuteronomy 26:12-15 speaks of sharing the tithes with the Levites, the foreigners, the orphans, and the widows. What does this teach us about God's concern for the marginalized and vulnerable members of society?
4. How can we apply the principle of giving from Deuteronomy 26:12-15 to our own lives and communities? In what ways can we show gratitude to God and care for those in need this week?
5. The Israelites are told to affirm their obedience to God's commands in verses 16-19. Why is obedience to God considered crucial in the context of the covenant between God and the Israelites? After all, didn't God choose them to be His people?
6. Deuteronomy 26:5-10 recounts the history of the Israelites, highlighting their journey from Egypt to the Promised Land. How does remembering their past shape the Israelites' understanding of who they are as a people? How can we do the same for our own lives?
7. Deuteronomy 26:14 mentions not eating the tithe while in mourning. What do you think this instruction reveals about the relationship between religious practices and emotional states? How have your own emotions hindered or enhanced your worship of the Lord? Is this a good thing or a bad thing? Why?
8. The chapter emphasizes the importance of rejoicing in all the good that God has given. How can we maintain a joyful and thankful attitude, even in difficult circumstances? Have you had success with this in the past? How did you do it?
9. How does the concept of dedicating something to the Lord resonate with stewardship and giving in today's context? What have you dedicated to the Lord? How do you show that dedication to Him and other people?
10. This covenant had two parts: the Lord would elevate the Israelites above the nations and they would be His possession, but they had to "walk in His ways" (verse 17 CSB). Is walking a single action or is it a series of steps until you arrive at a destination? What was Israel's destination? What is your destination? How can you ensure that you will walk in His ways this week?

Key Words/Phrase

Firstfruits, v. 10.

Characters

God, Moses.

Strong Verse(s)

10, 18.