People of the Land sermon guide

4.15.18 – LENA VAN WYCK
Singing Redemption
In the context of the Old Testament, Israel given the
land as a gift to be stewarded. They are reminded over
and over again of this great divine task with the divine
gift. Ancient Israel is called to reflect God's purposes
for the land and not their own. They are commissioned
by God to make the land teem and sing with creative
potential.
All of this is a gracious gift from God to steward the
land and allow it to flourish under their care, not only
for themselves but for the world as well. The Eden task
(Gen 1-2) is not abandoned, but extended through
Israel's care.
To this end, the Old Testament commits itself, its
songs, and its worship to clarifying this central task.
Questions to Consider
1. How were the Israelites called to care for the land
and how might Christians today carry on a similar
vocation?
2. How might the principle of restraint reflected in the
treatment of the land be important to our treatment of
the earth today?
3.How does Sabbath rest connect
4. What does it look like today to "spread a table in the
wilderness?" What does this imagery evoke in you?
5. How does God's anger at Ancient Israel's treatment
of the land apply to us today? Would God be angry
today?