Offensive Laws (Outlawed? Week 3)

Creekside Community Church of Elizabeth

In this week’s message, Pastor Luke tackles one of the most challenging questions about the Old Testament: If God is good and just, why did He give laws that seem harsh or offensive by today’s standards? Join us as we explore two types of offensive laws—those that reflect ancient cultural limitations and those that challenge our own cultural blind spots. Together, we’ll examine how God’s laws on slavery were an early step toward dignity, setting a trajectory that moves toward freedom, equality, and justice. Through the examples of Exodus, Deuteronomy, and Paul’s letter to Philemon, we’ll see how God’s redemptive work in history has always been about moving His people toward a deeper love and respect for every person. As followers of Christ, we’re called to carry on this work, honoring all people with dignity and fighting against all forms of modern oppression. Key Takeaway: Some Old Testament laws were stepping stones, not the end goal, pointing us toward Jesus’s ultimate ethic of freedom and compassion. Application: Learn how to approach challenging passages by asking whether a law shows God’s patience with a culture in need of transformation or challenges us to confront our own blind spots. Be sure to subscribe and join us for this powerful and thought-provoking message! For more info about our church community, or to connect with us, go to www.creekside.cc