Deuteronomy 23

When the congregation came together for worship, there were certain safeguards in place. Those emasculated as a result of a pagan worship practice were excluded. Children who came about as a result of a “forbidden” union (perhaps an idolatrous one) were excluded. Those who were a part of cultures that hated Israel were excluded. However, those from nations who helped or were related in some way to Israel were allowed.

Ritual purity and cleanliness were also important, and the next few verses reflect that. But holiness is more than just keeping the body clean. It’s displaying grace (to slaves), not engaging in prostitution, not charging interest to countrymen, being truthful with vows, and not stealing from your neighbor.

Thought for the day: We tend to have a more open attitude to corporate worship, hoping to draw people to God/Christ. However, fellowship, or even church membership, could be seen in a different light.

1 Corinthians 5:11 (WEB) “But as it is, I wrote to you not to associate with anyone who is called a brother who is a sexual sinner, or covetous, or an idolater, or a slanderer, or a drunkard, or an extortionist. Don’t even eat with such a person.”