What do Sabbath, tithing, canceling debt, and spiritual authority have in common? They’re all about one thing: dependence on Yahweh. In today’s reading from Deuteronomy 15–18 (starting at 14:22), we see how the 4th and 5th commandments get expanded into real-life rhythms—from rest and generosity to how we honor authority. This episode unpacks how God shapes His people to live with trust, balance, and a holy kind of power.
✈️ Overview:
• Deuteronomy 14:22–16:17 expands on the Sabbath commandment, showing that rest isn’t just about time—it’s also about how we handle money and people.
• Tithing, debt forgiveness, releasing servants, and celebrating festivals are all expressions of Sabbath faithfulness.
• Deuteronomy 16:18–18:22 expands on honoring parents by showing how that same honor extends to judges, kings, priests, and prophets.
• Everything in these chapters points toward a deeper trust in Yahweh—not money, work, or worldly power.
🔎 Context Clues:
• These laws all expand on the 10 Commandments, especially the 4th (Sabbath) and 5th (honor parents).
• In Israel’s culture, time and money were not private assets but covenant expressions. Sabbath rest and tithing both reflect dependence and reverence.
• Honoring your parents trains you to honor other types of authority—judges, kings, priests, and prophets—each with unique boundaries to prevent abuse of power.
🤓 Nerdy Nuggets:
• Tithing is presented as a form of Sabbath—just like a portion of your time belongs to God, so does a portion of your income.
• Debt cancellation (every 7 years) and releasing servants mirror the weekly Sabbath rhythm—God weaves justice into time itself.
• Festivals like Passover and Tabernacles were extended Sabbaths that cost time and money but taught joy, rest, and trust.
• Prophets were contrasted with occult practices—not all spiritual power is holy. God permits prophetic power but forbids sorcery, divination, and spiritism.
✅ Timeless Truths:
• Some people want spirit—but not the Holy Spirit. Discernment matters when seeking spiritual power.
• Obedience to God shows up in practical trust: resting instead of hustling, giving instead of hoarding, releasing instead of clinging.
• Authority must be honored—but never blindly. Kings shouldn’t trust military might, priests can’t accept bribes, and prophets must never lead people away from Yahweh.
• Dependence on Yahweh means rejecting idols of money, work, or occult power—and trusting the one true source of provision and peace.
This isn’t just about Old Testament laws—it’s about forming a lifestyle of holy dependence. If you’re on a streak, keep it going. If not, today’s a perfect day to start.
🚀 START HERE!
Want to join us on the journey? Check out the Start Page! You can start from Episode 001 on January 1st or jump in to follow along with us, your choice.
📖 DOWNLOAD THE PLAN:
Whether you’re new to the Bible or ready for a fresh start in 2025, this plan is for YOU. And the best part? The plan is FREE! Download it now and start your journey today.
🤓 WANT MORE BIBLE NERD RESOURCES?
Check out armacourses.com for biblical literacy resources, courses, and a community to grow with! Learn the Bible for yourself with 60+ courses and counting for only $13 / Month. Also, your first 30 days are on us. Join ARMA for FREE!
🐉 DR.MANNY'S NEW BOOK
Crushing Chaos is available NOW wherever books are sold. Learn more & buy now at https://crushingchaos.com.
🍬 CHURCH CANDY MARKETING
Get NEW church guests, EVERY Sunday without you having to stress over ads, algorithms, or figuring out Facebook or Instagram. Head over to https://churchcandy.com/manny to book a discovery call today!
👍 NEVER MISS AN EPISODE! LIKE & SUBSCRIBE:
📱 STAY CONNECTED:
📨 EMAIL US!
Got questions or want to share your thoughts? Email us at hello@thebibledept.com.
💥 MORE RESOURCES:
- Amazon Store | Shop The Bible Dept. Essentials
- Dr. Manny Arango’s Book | Brainwashed
- Book Dr. Manny to Speak
🌱 WE’RE PLANTING A CHURCH!
SUBSPLASH: The Subsplash Platform is the complete solution for connecting with your community on Sunday and beyond. There’s no better way for your church or ministry to engage your audience, grow your giving, or host and stream your media. Learn more at https://subsplash.com/bible-department
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands