Do not return a slave to his master if he has taken refuge with you. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1. What is the meaning of Deuteronomy 23:15? 2. How does Deuteronomy 23:15 guide our treatment of those seeking refuge? 3. What does "do not return" in Deuteronomy 23:15 reveal about God's justice? 4. How can we apply Deuteronomy 23:15 to modern issues of asylum and refuge? 5. Compare Deuteronomy 23:15 with Leviticus 19:34 on treating foreigners. What similarities exist? 6. How does Deuteronomy 23:15 challenge us to show compassion in our communities? 7. What is the historical context of Deuteronomy 23:15? 8. How does Deuteronomy 23:15 reflect God's view on slavery? 9. Why does Deuteronomy 23:15 protect runaway slaves? 10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Deuteronomy 23? 11. Why did God allow slavery in the Bible? 12. Deuteronomy 19:2-3: Is there any archaeological evidence of Israel establishing and maintaining these cities of refuge as described? 13. Psalm 15:5 forbids charging interest; how does this align with other Old Testament passages that allow interest to foreigners (e.g., Deuteronomy 23:20)? 14. John 15:15: How can Jesus call his followers 'friends' here, yet other scriptures refer to them as 'servants' or 'slaves' (e.g., Romans 1:1)? Discussion Questions 1. How does Deuteronomy 23:15 reflect God's character and His concern for justice and mercy?2. In what ways can we apply the principle of providing refuge to those in need in our current societal context? 3. How does the treatment of runaway slaves in Deuteronomy 23:15 connect with the New Testament teachings on equality and freedom in Christ? 4. What are some modern-day situations where we might be called to offer protection and refuge to others, and how can we respond biblically? 5. How does understanding the historical and cultural context of this law enhance our interpretation and application of it today?1. Why does God emphasize purity within the camp? 2. How do the rules about charging interest reflect God's heart towards community living? 3. In what ways can we apply the principle of not returning an escaped slave to contemporary refugee situations? 4. What might be the modern equivalents of practices that should not be brought into God's house? 5. How does this chapter reflect the balance between justice, mercy, and holiness? 6. Why might God allow eating from a neighbor's vineyard or field but put restrictions on the quantity and method? 7. How does the topic of vows resonate with our commitment to God and others today? 8. In today's world, how can we maintain a spiritual "cleanliness in the camp"? 9. What are some modern-day examples of "interest" that we might be tempted to charge our brothers and sisters? 10. How do the prohibitions on certain individuals entering the assembly align with or differ from contemporary church practices? 11. What is the significance of the third generation for Edomites and Egyptians? 12. How can we be vigilant against practices that compromise our community's moral integrity? 13. How does the principle of protecting vulnerable individuals translate into today's context? 14. In what ways can we ensure we're fulfilling our "vows" in the 21st century? 15. How can we actively foster an environment of social responsibility in our communities? 16. How do the exclusions from the assembly challenge or shape your understanding of God’s nature? 17. How can you create a "designated place" in your life for personal reflection and repentance? 18. What modern actions or practices might be considered "earnings from immoral activities"? 19. Why is it important to promptly fulfill vows, and how does that play a role in your personal commitments? 20. Reflect on a time when you felt like an "escaped slave" and how the principles from this chapter might have applied. Links Deuteronomy 23:15 NIVDeuteronomy 23:15 NLT Deuteronomy 23:15 ESV Deuteronomy 23:15 NASB Deuteronomy 23:15 KJV Deuteronomy 23:15 Commentaries Bible Hub |



