Covenant Renewal: The Law Written, Sacrifices Offered, and Obedience Commanded

Text: Deuteronomy 27:1 – 26
Theme: God's covenant is renewed with Israel through written law, proper sacrifice, and the declaration of blessings and curses.

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I. Moses’ Final Instructions: Keep All the Commandments (Deut. 27:1)

• “And Moses with the elders of Israel commanded the people, saying, Keep all the commandments which I command you this day.”

• This command was given on a single day, as Moses recited the law one final time before his death.

• The urgency and finality of Moses' message is clear: keep every word God has given.

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II. Setting Up Stones and Writing the Law (Deut. 27:2–4)

• As they crossed the Jordan, Israel was to:

  • Set up great stones (v. 2)

  • Plaster them with lime

  • Write the law upon them (v. 3)

  • This was a visible witness to their covenant with God.

• Cross-reference:

  • Joshua 4:1 – Memorial stones after crossing Jordan

  • Joshua 8:32 – Joshua writes the law on stones

• Mount Ebal is specified as the location (v. 4), in contrast to Mount Gerizim, which was for the blessings (Deut. 11:29).

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III. The Altar on Mount Ebal: A Place of Sacrifice (Deut. 27:5–6)

• They were to build an altar of unhewn stones—no tool to touch them.

  • Exodus 20:25 – If a tool is used, the altar is defiled.

  • Symbolizes that worship must not be man-altered or defiled by human invention.

• Burnt offerings (for atonement) and peace offerings (for fellowship) were to be made there.

  • Joshua 8:30–31 – Joshua obeys this command after conquest.

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IV. Rejoicing Before the Lord (Deut. 27:7)

• After offering sacrifices, they were to eat and rejoice before the Lord.

• God's covenant brings not only obligation but joy and peace with Him.

• Fellowship meals represent communion with God and one another.

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Key Lessons and Applications:

1. God’s Word Must Be Made Visible

   • Writing the law publicly reminds us that God's Word is not hidden but openly declared.

   • Application: We must be people who both hear and display God's Word.

2. Worship Must Be Pure

   • God demands worship on His terms—not through human tradition or manipulation.

   • Application: Our offerings (lives, prayers, service) must be holy, unaltered by pride.

3. Rejoicing Follows Obedience

   • Peace with God is possible when obedience and atonement are rightly practiced.

   • Application: God invites us to rejoice in His presence after obedience is fulfilled.

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