Deuteronomy 15:15

Remember that you were slaves in the land of Egypt, and the LORD your God redeemed you; that is why I am giving you this command today.

Study Bible

Remember that you were slaves in the land of Egypt
This phrase serves as a reminder of Israel's past bondage and suffering in Egypt, a central narrative in the Old Testament. The Israelites' slavery in Egypt is documented in the book of Exodus, where they endured harsh conditions under Pharaoh's rule. This historical context emphasizes God's deliverance and the transformation from slavery to freedom. The memory of their past servitude is intended to foster humility and compassion, encouraging them to treat others, especially the poor and enslaved, with justice and mercy. This remembrance is a recurring theme in Deuteronomy, reinforcing the importance of gratitude and obedience to God.

and the LORD your God redeemed you
The term "redeemed" signifies a powerful act of liberation and salvation by God. In the biblical context, redemption often involves a cost or sacrifice, pointing to God's intervention in freeing the Israelites from Egyptian bondage. This act of redemption is a foreshadowing of the ultimate redemption through Jesus Christ, who is seen as the fulfillment of God's promise to redeem His people. The concept of redemption is central to the Christian faith, symbolizing deliverance from sin and spiritual death.

that is why I am giving you this command today
The command referred to here is part of the broader covenantal laws given to the Israelites. These laws are not arbitrary but are grounded in the historical and theological reality of God's redemptive acts. The commands are meant to shape a community that reflects God's character and justice. This phrase underscores the connection between divine deliverance and ethical living, suggesting that the Israelites' obedience to God's laws is a response to His grace and mercy. The "today" emphasizes the immediacy and relevance of God's commands, urging the Israelites to live in accordance with His will in their present circumstances.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Israelites
The chosen people of God who were once enslaved in Egypt and later redeemed by God's mighty hand.

2. Egypt
The land where the Israelites were held in bondage for 400 years before God delivered them.

3. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel who redeemed His people from slavery.

4. Moses
The leader and prophet who delivered God's laws and commands to the Israelites, including this reminder in Deuteronomy.

5. Redemption
The act of God delivering the Israelites from slavery, symbolizing spiritual redemption.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Remembrance
Remembering past deliverance strengthens faith and gratitude.

Reflect on personal "Egypts" from which God has delivered you.

God's Command and Our Response
God's commands are rooted in His past actions and character.

Obedience is a response to God's redemptive work in our lives.

Spiritual Redemption
Just as God redeemed Israel, He offers spiritual redemption through Christ.

Embrace and live out the freedom found in Christ.

Gratitude and Generosity
Remembering God's deliverance should lead to a life of gratitude and generosity.

Consider how you can extend grace and freedom to others.

Identity in Christ
Our identity is shaped by God's redemptive work, not our past bondage.

Live as those who are free, serving God and others.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does remembering the Israelites' deliverance from Egypt help us understand God's character and His expectations for us today?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of remembrance in our daily walk with God?

3. How does the concept of redemption in Deuteronomy 15:15 connect to the New Testament understanding of redemption through Christ?

4. What are some practical ways we can demonstrate gratitude and generosity in response to God's deliverance in our lives?

5. How can reflecting on our identity in Christ help us overcome past "bondages" and live in the freedom He provides?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 13:3
This verse also calls the Israelites to remember their deliverance from Egypt, emphasizing the importance of remembrance in their faith journey.

Leviticus 25:42
Highlights the concept of redemption and freedom, reminding the Israelites that they are God's servants, not to be sold as slaves.

1 Corinthians 6:20
Paul reminds believers that they were bought with a price, drawing a parallel to the concept of redemption in Deuteronomy.

Ephesians 1:7
Speaks of redemption through Christ's blood, connecting the Old Testament concept of redemption to the New Testament fulfillment in Jesus.