At this time, let’s go ahead and jump right into chapter 21.  Whoever has the next key, go ahead and read that for us please.  (READ 21:1-11)

In this section, what freedoms, rights, and needs is God protecting?

Do you thin that these laws condone slavery?  Why?

Who do God’s instructions about slavery differ from how slaves were treated in pre-Civil War times here in America?

Before we move on to the next section, does anyone have anything to add?

Well, if there is nothing else, let’s go ahead and finish this chapter off.  Before we read that section though, tell me: How were you punished as a child?

Did the punishment vary according to the seriousness of the offense?

And finally, how do you feel about Capital Punishment?

Well, in this next chapter, we are reading about personal injuries and what the punishment should be for inflicting them.  Whoever has the next key, go ahead and read that for us.  (READ 21:12-36)

What do you find interesting about this section?

What does this section say about the idea or the topic of Capital Punishment?

Does this passage change your view of Capital Punishment any?

Which of these requirements would be the toughest for you to follow?

How would you respond to someone who opposed the death penalty saying, “The God of the Old Testament was brutal and merciless.”?

At this time, allow me to read for you what the Commentary had to say about chapter 21.  It says, (READ COMMENTARY)

Now, before we move on, does anyone have anything that they would like to add?

Well, if that is all, let’s move on and begin chapter 22 tonight as well.  And let’s just go ahead and jump right in.  Whoever has the next key, go ahead.  (READ 22:1-15)

From a look at the protected things in this section, what things were important in that society?

Why doesn’t the principle of “eye for eye” apply in cases about property?

What role do judges play in these cases?

Does anyone have anything that they would like to add before we move on?

Well, if there is nothing else, let’s go ahead and get ready to finish this chapter.  This last section of chapter 22 is about social responsibilities.  Whoever has the last key, go ahead and read that at this time please.  (READ 22:16-31)

How are the Israelites to be different, or “holy” compared to the pagans around them?

Who is singled out for special attention by God?

Have you ever been, or are you currently being mistreated or taken advantage of?  Is so, explain a little?

How does verse 27b sound to you?

At this time, allow me to read what the Commentary has to say.  It say, (READ COMMENTARY)

Now before we close this evening, does anyone have anything that they would like to add?

Well, if that is all, for next week we will try and take a look at Exodus chapters 23-25.

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