If someone guilty of a capital offense is put to death and their body is exposed on a pole, you must not leave the body hanging on the pole overnight. Be sure to bury it that same day, because anyone who is hung on a pole is under God’s curse. – Deuteronomy 21:22-23
To be exposed on a pole was worse than death itself. | WATCH ON YOUTUBE
In ancient Israel, to hang on the tree did not mean to be executed by strangulation. Rather, it was to have the corpse mounted on a tree or other prominent place, with the purpose of exposing the executed one to disgrace and the elements. To be put to death for an offense was bad enough, but to then have your corpse left exposed to scavenging animals and birds was the ultimate humiliation.
But even in the most severe judgment, there was a tempering. To ensure that the humiliation of the person and family is not excessive, the body was to be brought down and buried the same day. This kind of punishment was thought to be so severe that it was reserved for those who were under God’s curse.
And yet, Christ voluntarily, took on this kind of punishment when He died on the cross to save you and me from our sins. Jesus Christ died on a cross, outside the city. He died a death of utter shame and humiliation and His body was exposed on a cross for all to see. God loved us so much that He sent His only Son, Christ the sinless one, so that we could be reconciled with Him.
What kind of love is this! How is your life reflecting your gratitude for this amazing love?
Lord, may I never take your love and sacrifice for granted, I pray.
Extended Reading — Deuteronomy 21-23
Read through the Bible in One Year: CLICK HERE
Links to Related Resources
Bible Gateway | Enduring Word | Bible Study Fellowship | FRMS YouVersion Plans
0 Comments