Deuteronomy 24:18

Remember that you were slaves in Egypt, and the LORD your God redeemed you from that place. Therefore I am commanding you to do this.

Study Bible

Remember that you were slaves in Egypt
The word "Remember" in Hebrew is "זָכַר" (zakar), which implies more than just recalling a fact; it involves a conscious act of bringing to mind with the intention of acting upon it. This command to remember is a call to humility and gratitude, reminding the Israelites of their past bondage. The phrase "slaves in Egypt" serves as a historical anchor, pointing to a time of oppression and hardship. It is a reminder of their identity and the transformation they underwent through God's intervention. This historical context is crucial, as it shapes their identity and moral obligations. The Israelites' experience in Egypt is a foundational narrative that underscores God's deliverance and faithfulness.

and the LORD your God redeemed you from there
The term "redeemed" comes from the Hebrew "גָּאַל" (ga'al), which means to buy back or to reclaim. This word is rich with theological significance, as it denotes God's active role in liberating the Israelites from slavery. It is a term that conveys both legal and familial connotations, suggesting that God not only rescued them but also restored them to a rightful place as His people. The phrase "the LORD your God" emphasizes the personal relationship between God and Israel, highlighting His sovereignty and covenantal faithfulness. This redemption is a precursor to the ultimate redemption found in Christ, serving as a typology of salvation.

That is why I am commanding you to do this
The phrase "That is why" connects the historical and theological truths to the ethical and moral imperatives that follow. It serves as a rationale for the commandments given, linking God's past actions to the present responsibilities of His people. The word "commanding" in Hebrew is "צָוָה" (tsavah), which implies a directive that is authoritative and binding. This command is not arbitrary but is rooted in God's character and His redemptive acts. The Israelites are called to reflect God's justice and mercy in their own actions, particularly in their treatment of others. This verse encapsulates the principle that divine grace and redemption should lead to a life of obedience and compassion, mirroring God's love and justice in the world.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Egypt
The land where the Israelites were enslaved for 400 years before God delivered them through Moses.

3. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God who redeemed Israel from slavery and gave them His laws.

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

5. Redemption
The act of God delivering the Israelites from slavery, which serves as a foundational event for their identity and obedience to God's commands.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Remembrance
Remembering past deliverance is crucial for maintaining faith and obedience. Just as the Israelites were to remember their slavery and redemption, Christians are called to remember their salvation through Christ.

God's Command and Our Response
God's commands are rooted in His past actions and character. Our obedience is a response to His faithfulness and redemption.

Redemption as Identity
The Israelites' identity was shaped by their redemption from Egypt. Similarly, Christians' identity is shaped by their redemption through Christ.

Compassion and Justice
The command in Deuteronomy 24:18 is linked to treating others with compassion and justice, reflecting God's character and our own experience of His grace.

Living as Redeemed People
Our daily lives should reflect the reality of our redemption. This includes how we treat others, make decisions, and prioritize our values.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the command to remember their slavery in Egypt shape the Israelites' identity and actions?

2. In what ways can Christians today remember and celebrate their redemption through Christ?

3. How does understanding our past (spiritual or otherwise) influence our obedience to God's commands?

4. What are some practical ways we can demonstrate compassion and justice in our communities, reflecting our redemption?

5. How can the concept of redemption influence our understanding of identity and purpose as believers?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 13:3
This verse emphasizes the importance of remembering the deliverance from Egypt, which is a recurring theme in the Old Testament.

Leviticus 25:55
Highlights the concept of the Israelites being God's servants, reinforcing their identity as a redeemed people.

1 Peter 1:18-19
Connects the idea of redemption to the New Testament, where believers are redeemed by the precious blood of Christ.

Ephesians 2:11-13
Reminds believers of their past separation from God and their current status through Christ, similar to the Israelites' journey from slavery to freedom.

Psalm 77:11-15
Encourages remembering God's mighty deeds, including the redemption from Egypt, as a source of faith and trust.