Chapter Summary

The blessing and cursing from Mt. Ebal and Gerizim.

Discussion Questions for Deuteronomy, Chapter 27

1. Deuteronomy 27:1-8 describes the ritual of writing the law on stones after crossing the Jordan River. What do you think was the purpose of this? How might it have impacted the Israelites' commitment to obeying God's commands?
2. In Deuteronomy 27:11-26, there is a series of curses pronounced upon various offenses. Is God a rewarder for good and a punisher for evil? If so, why do we see bad things happen to good people and vice versa?
3. What do you think is the significance of the tribes standing on the two mountains during the ceremony in verses 11-26? Why were these mountains important?
4. What is a common theme in verses 15-26? Why do you think it was important for the people to verbally agree with these proclamations?
5. The list of offenses and corresponding curses in verses 15-26 seems to emphasize issues related to personal relationships and integrity. How can we address similar moral issues in our own lives and promote honesty and respect?
6. The passage includes curses for various actions, such as dishonoring one's parents and committing injustice against the vulnerable. What principles can we find that would apply to a modern reader?
7. Consider the word "amen" mentioned in verses 15-26, which means "so be it" or "truth." How can saying "amen" to the laws and the rest of Scripture help us obey God's commands? When you pray and say "amen," are you thinking about the word's meaning? What can you do to help remember its value in prayer?
8. Sometimes as Christians we can get lax and say to ourselves, "I've got grace" if we stumble in sin. How does this passage remind you of the weight of sin that you used to bear? Why must we strive to be obedient if we have grace through Jesus Christ?
9. The curses in this passage are not meant to cause us to fear but rather emphasize the importance of obedience. How can we view God's commands in a positive light and understand them as expressions of His love and guidance? What about the more hard-to-keep commands?
10. Does God keep his promises? Does God keep his promises even when they are not beneficial for you? How is this reflected in verses 15-26?

Key Words/Phrase

Law, v. 8.

Characters

God, Moses.

Strong Verse(s)

9, 10.