Deuteronomy 24:22

Remember that you were slaves in the land of Egypt. Therefore I am commanding you to do this.

Study Bible

Remember
The Hebrew word for "remember" is "זָכַר" (zakar), which implies more than just recalling a fact; it involves an active, intentional process of bringing something to mind with the purpose of acting upon it. In the context of Deuteronomy, this call to remember is a divine imperative, urging the Israelites to keep God's past actions and commands at the forefront of their consciousness. This remembrance is not passive but is meant to inspire gratitude and obedience, serving as a moral compass guiding their actions.

that you were slaves
The phrase "that you were slaves" refers to the Israelites' bondage in Egypt, a central narrative in the Hebrew Scriptures. The Hebrew word for "slaves" is "עֲבָדִים" (avadim), which denotes servitude and oppression. This historical context is crucial, as it reminds the Israelites of their humble beginnings and the suffering they endured. It serves as a humbling reminder of their dependence on God's deliverance and a call to empathy and justice in their treatment of others, particularly the marginalized and oppressed.

in the land of Egypt
"Egypt" in Hebrew is "מִצְרַיִם" (Mitzrayim), a place synonymous with oppression and idolatry in the biblical narrative. The land of Egypt represents a physical and spiritual bondage from which God delivered the Israelites. This deliverance is a foundational event in Israel's history, symbolizing God's power and faithfulness. The mention of Egypt serves as a reminder of God's redemptive work and the transformation from slavery to freedom, which should influence the Israelites' conduct and attitudes towards others.

Therefore
The word "therefore" acts as a logical connector, linking the remembrance of past slavery to the present command. It signifies that the memory of their past should directly influence their current behavior. This transition from memory to action is a common biblical theme, emphasizing that understanding God's past actions should lead to a life of obedience and compassion.

I am commanding you
The phrase "I am commanding you" underscores the authority of God as the lawgiver. The Hebrew word for "commanding" is "מְצַוֶּה" (metzaveh), which conveys a sense of divine mandate. This is not a suggestion but a direct order from God, highlighting the seriousness and non-negotiable nature of the command. It reflects the covenant relationship between God and Israel, where obedience to God's commands is a response to His grace and deliverance.

to do this
The phrase "to do this" refers to the specific actions and laws outlined in the preceding verses, which include provisions for justice and care for the vulnerable, such as the foreigner, the fatherless, and the widow. The Hebrew verb "to do" is "עֲשׂוֹת" (asot), which implies active implementation. This call to action is a practical outworking of the remembrance of their own deliverance, urging the Israelites to embody God's justice and mercy in their community life. It is a call to live out their faith through tangible acts of kindness and justice, reflecting God's character to the world.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were once slaves in Egypt and are now being instructed by God through Moses.

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

3. Moses
The prophet and leader of the Israelites, who is delivering God's laws and commandments to the people.

4. God
The sovereign Lord who delivered the Israelites from slavery and is now giving them laws to live by in the Promised Land.

Teaching Points

Memory as Motivation
Remembering past hardships can motivate us to act justly and compassionately towards others. The Israelites' memory of slavery was meant to inspire empathy and fair treatment of others.

Gratitude and Obedience
Recognizing God's deliverance should lead to a life of gratitude and obedience. The Israelites were to follow God's commands as a response to His saving grace.

Social Justice and Compassion
God's laws often emphasize care for the marginalized, such as widows, orphans, and foreigners. This reflects God's heart for justice and compassion, which should be mirrored in our actions.

Identity and Responsibility
The Israelites' identity as former slaves shaped their responsibility to act justly. Our identity in Christ should similarly influence our actions and attitudes towards others.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does remembering past experiences of hardship or deliverance shape our actions and attitudes today?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of treating others with fairness and compassion in our daily lives?

3. How does our identity in Christ influence our responsibility towards social justice and caring for the marginalized?

4. What are some practical ways we can express gratitude to God for His deliverance in our lives?

5. How can we ensure that our obedience to God's commands is motivated by love and gratitude rather than obligation?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 13:3
This verse also calls the Israelites to remember their deliverance from Egypt, emphasizing the importance of memory in shaping identity and obedience.

Leviticus 19:34
This passage instructs the Israelites to love the foreigner as themselves, reminding them of their own experience as foreigners in Egypt.

Matthew 7:12
Known as the Golden Rule, this teaching of Jesus echoes the principle of treating others with the same kindness and fairness that one desires for oneself.