Deuteronomy 15

Chapter Summary

Deuteronomy 15 begins by describing the year of release, where every seventh year, debts are to be canceled and slaves are to be set free (Deuteronomy 15:1-11). The chapter then discusses the treatment of slaves, including the rules for releasing them and providing for their well-being (Deuteronomy 15:12-18). The passage also touches on the importance of remembering the Israelites' own experience of slavery in Egypt and how that should inform their treatment of others (Deuteronomy 15:15). The chapter concludes with a discussion of the firstborn animals and the importance of giving to God (Deuteronomy 15:19-23). Throughout the chapter, God's character is revealed as one of mercy, justice, and provision.

Context for the Chapter

Deuteronomy 15 is part of the larger narrative of the book of Deuteronomy, which is a series of sermons given by Moses to the Israelites as they prepare to enter the Promised Land. The chapter is situated within the section of the book that deals with the covenant and the laws that the Israelites are to follow. The themes and principles outlined in Deuteronomy 15 are central to the covenant and are meant to guide the Israelites in their relationships with God and with each other. In the larger biblical narrative, Deuteronomy 15 contributes to the storyline of God's redemption and care for His people, which ultimately finds its fulfillment in Jesus Christ.

Heart Application

As believers, we are called to reflect God's character in our lives. Deuteronomy 15 challenges us to be openhanded toward those in need and to remember the experiences of those who have gone before us. We are to give generously and to care for the poor, just as God cares for us. By applying these principles, we demonstrate our love for God and our commitment to living out our faith in practical ways.

What Does This Chapter Mean?

Deuteronomy 15 is about God's care for the poor and the importance of forgiveness. The chapter talks about the year of release, where debts are canceled and slaves are set free (Deuteronomy 15:1-11). It also discusses the treatment of slaves and the importance of remembering the Israelites' own experience of slavery (Deuteronomy 15:12-18). The chapter concludes with a discussion of the firstborn animals and the importance of giving to God (Deuteronomy 15:19-23).

Voices from the Church

“The year of release is a beautiful picture of the gospel, where our debts are canceled and we are set free from the slavery of sin.”

— Charles Spurgeon

“The law of the firstborn animals reminds us that our best belongs to God, and that we are to give Him our first and our finest.”

— John Calvin

Outline for Preaching

1. The Year of Release (15:1-11) — The chapter begins by describing the year of release, where every seventh year, debts are to be canceled and slaves are to be set free. This highlights God's mercy and justice.
2. The Treatment of Slaves (15:12-18) — The chapter then discusses the treatment of slaves, including the rules for releasing them and providing for their well-being. This emphasizes the importance of remembering the Israelites' own experience of slavery.
3. The Firstborn Animals (15:19-23) — The chapter concludes with a discussion of the firstborn animals and the importance of giving to God. This highlights the principle of giving God our best.
4. The Importance of Forgiveness — Throughout the chapter, the importance of forgiveness and release is emphasized. This is seen in the year of release, the treatment of slaves, and the principle of giving to God.
5. The Character of God — The chapter reveals God's character as one of mercy, justice, and provision. This is seen in His care for the poor, His concern for the treatment of slaves, and His desire for the Israelites to give their best to Him.

Core Doctrines

The Doctrine of Redemption

Deuteronomy 15 teaches that God is a God of redemption, who desires to set people free from the slavery of sin and debt. This is seen in the year of release and the treatment of slaves.

The Doctrine of Stewardship

The chapter emphasizes the importance of stewardship, as the Israelites are called to give their best to God and to care for the poor and needy.

The Doctrine of Forgiveness

The importance of forgiveness is emphasized throughout the chapter, as the Israelites are called to cancel debts and to release slaves.

The Doctrine of God's Character

The chapter reveals God's character as one of mercy, justice, and provision. This is seen in His care for the poor, His concern for the treatment of slaves, and His desire for the Israelites to give their best to Him.

Lessons from Deuteronomy 15

1. The Importance of Forgiveness — Deuteronomy 15 teaches us about the importance of forgiveness and release. We are called to cancel debts and to release those who are bound by sin and poverty.
2. The Principle of Giving to God — The chapter emphasizes the importance of giving God our best. This principle is still relevant today, as believers are called to give their best to God in all areas of life.
3. The Character of God — Deuteronomy 15 reveals God's character as one of mercy, justice, and provision. This is seen in His care for the poor, His concern for the treatment of slaves, and His desire for the Israelites to give their best to Him.
4. The Importance of Remembering the Past — The chapter emphasizes the importance of remembering the past and applying its lessons to our lives. This is seen in the treatment of slaves and the principle of giving to God.
5. The Call to Care for the Poor — Deuteronomy 15 challenges us to care for the poor and needy. We are called to be openhanded toward those in need and to remember the experiences of those who have gone before us.

Themes from Deuteronomy 15

1. The Theme of Redemption — Deuteronomy 15 teaches us about the theme of redemption, as God desires to set people free from the slavery of sin and debt.
2. The Theme of Stewardship — The chapter emphasizes the importance of stewardship, as the Israelites are called to give their best to God and to care for the poor and needy.
3. The Theme of Forgiveness — The importance of forgiveness is emphasized throughout the chapter, as the Israelites are called to cancel debts and to release slaves.
4. The Theme of God's Character — Deuteronomy 15 reveals God's character as one of mercy, justice, and provision. This is seen in His care for the poor, His concern for the treatment of slaves, and His desire for the Israelites to give their best to Him.
5. The Theme of Obedience — The chapter emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's commands, as the Israelites are called to follow His laws and to give their best to Him.

Questions for Meditation

1. How does Deuteronomy 15 challenge you to think about your relationship with money and possessions?
2. What does the year of release teach us about God's character and His desire for His people?
3. How can you apply the principles of Deuteronomy 15 in your own life, particularly in terms of caring for the poor and needy?
4. What does the treatment of slaves in Deuteronomy 15 teach us about the importance of remembering the past and applying its lessons to our lives?
5. How does the principle of giving God our best, as seen in the firstborn animals, apply to your life today?

Detailed Chapter Outline

Frequently Asked Questions

Top Cross References

Sermons on Deuteronomy 15

	Sermon	Description
	Lord, Give Me Your Heart - 2 by Jackie Pullinger	In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of caring for the least fortunate in society. He uses the analogy of the long-haired and short-haired groups to represent thos
	The Gospel, Possessions and Prosperity - Session 3 by David Platt	In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of our use of money in demonstrating where our heart is. He encourages the congregation to examine their checkbooks and budge
	Dedication Defined by Devern Fromke	In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a clear understanding of the basics of dedication to God. He explains that when God extends mercy to us, it is like
	Rev. John Newton - an Example of Amazing Grace (Famous Saints #6) by Stephen Hamilton	In this sermon, the preacher shares the story of John Newton, a man who experienced a powerful dream that made a great impression on him. However, he soon forgot the impact of the
	(Proverbs) ch.14:4 - 15:5 by Zac Poonen	In this sermon, the preacher focuses on various verses from the book of Proverbs. He starts by discussing the concept of having oxen and the importance of keeping the stable clean,
	(Genesis) 61 - Jacob - Surprised, Sustained and Satisfied by the God Of by S. Lewis Johnson	In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the greatness of God's purposes, which are wise, merciful, and sure to be seen in the long run. He draws parallels between the promises God
	The Love of Money - Part 4 by Zac Poonen	This sermon emphasizes the importance of financial wisdom and stewardship, drawing lessons from the simplicity and wisdom of Jesus' life. It highlights the principles of buying onl
	Old Testament Survey - Part 23 by Dick Woodward	This sermon delves into the Book of Deuteronomy, focusing on Moses' sermons to the people of God before entering Canaan. It emphasizes responding to God's grace with obedience and
	Obedience by Andrew Murray	Andrew Murray emphasizes the critical role of obedience in the Christian life, illustrating that it is through obedience that believers can regain God's favor and blessings. He hig
	The Gift of Giving by Chuck Smith	Chuck Smith emphasizes the significance of the gift of giving as a manifestation of the Holy Spirit's power in believers. He illustrates how Jesus exemplified selfless giving, urgi

Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Deuteronomy 15

Matthew Henry's commentary on Deuteronomy 15 highlights the importance of the year of release, where debts are canceled and slaves are set free, as a picture of the gospel and the redemption that comes through Christ. He also emphasizes the importance of treating slaves with kindness and compassion, and of giving God our best, as seen in the firstborn animals. Henry notes that the chapter reveals God's character as one of mercy, justice, and provision, and that it challenges believers to reflect God's character in their lives, particularly in their relationships with the poor and needy. He concludes by emphasizing the importance of trusting in God's provision and care, and of giving generously to those in need, as a way of demonstrating our love for God and our commitment to living out our faith in practical ways. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →

What Do You Notice?