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SECTION 12
Why Did God Provide the Torah?
“A law he set in Israel . . . that they might set their confidence in God himself.”
JEHOVAH provided the Torah as part of the long-range purpose that he set out in Eden
What laws did God give before the Law given to Moses?
God prohibited murder and the eating of blood, among other directives. (Genesis 9:3-5) These decrees emphasize the sacredness of life and are binding on all mankind, Noah’s descendants.
Where does Abraham fit into God’s purpose?
God told faithful Abraham: “By means of your seed [one of his descendants] all nations of the earth will certainly bless themselves.” (Genesis 22:18) God would use that “seed” to fulfill his purpose.
How does the Law fit into God’s purpose?
The Law given to Moses advanced God’s purpose
In connection with the Law given to Moses, God made a covenant with the nation of Israel. By keeping that covenant, Israel would become “a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.”
How did the Law benefit all mankind?
God used the nation of Israel as an example of the blessings that result from supporting his rulership. God’s Law was designed to guide and protect Israel, in order for them to become “a light of the nations.” (Isaiah 42:6) For Israel to become such a blessing, they needed to follow God’s written Law.
How could a nation of imperfect people carry out God’s Law perfectly?
Despite their best intentions, imperfect people would always fall short, even as Moses did. (Numbers 12:3; 20:10-12) Nevertheless, God preserved ancient Israel in order to fulfill his purpose.
