Serve God Only

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Eric Otchere I http://www.livingourbible.com I Tuesday 2nd September 2025

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Introduction
Deuteronomy 17 highlights the importance of worshiping God alone by following His standards rather than human traditions. Moses reminded Israel that their sacrifices, justice system, and leaders were all to reflect God’s holiness.

Sacrifices had to be pure, judges had to uphold justice without bias, and kings had to rule humbly under God’s law. These instructions revealed that obedience was not just about rituals—it was about honoring God in every area of life.

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1. Offering Proper Sacrifices to God (Deuteronomy 17:1-7)

Sacrifices were central to Israel’s worship, but God required them to be pure and without defect. Offering blemished animals showed disregard for His holiness and turned worship into an empty ritual.

Scripture: “Do not sacrifice to the Lord your God an ox or a sheep that has any defect or flaw in it, for that would be detestable to him.” (Deuteronomy 17:1 NIV)

For us today, this teaches that God deserves our best—not leftovers or half-hearted devotion. Paul echoed this principle when he said, “Offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.” (Romans 12:1 NIV).

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2. Administering Justice Fairly (Deuteronomy 17:8-13)

Moses instructed that judges and priests were to handle difficult cases with wisdom and impartiality, ensuring justice was upheld according to God’s law. Those who refused to listen to the judgment were to be disciplined so that others would respect God’s order.

Scripture: “You must act according to the decisions they give you at the place the Lord will choose. Be careful to do everything they instruct you.” (Deuteronomy 17:10 NIV)

This emphasizes that justice is not man-made but flows from God’s standards. Today, it challenges us to practice fairness and integrity in our dealings, showing that true justice reflects God’s character.

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3. Selecting and Living as a Godly King (Deuteronomy 17:14-20)

Moses also foresaw the day Israel would ask for a king. God permitted it but set strict guidelines: the king must be chosen by God, not rely on wealth or military power, avoid idolatry, and humbly read and obey God’s law daily.

Scripture: “He is to write for himself on a scroll a copy of this law… It is to be with him, and he is to read it all the days of his life.” (Deuteronomy 17:18-19 NIV)

Leadership in God’s kingdom requires humility, obedience, and reliance on Him. For believers today, whether leading in church, business, or family, the call remains the same: lead by God’s Word, not by pride or worldly wisdom.

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Conclusion

Deuteronomy 17 shows that worshiping God alone means offering Him our best, ensuring justice, and choosing leaders who live by His Word. God’s people were called to be distinct, and so are we. Holiness must touch our worship, our justice, and our leadership.

Take Action: Serve God only. Offer Him your best, live with integrity, and let His Word guide your life and leadership.

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