Over and over again, through these chapters, the Lord announces his discipline against his people, but it is always gracious discipline. The goal? “Then you will know that I am the Lord” (17:21; Also, 20:38,42,44; 21:5).
“I will purge out the rebels from among you, and those who transgress against me. I will bring them out of the land where they sojourn, but they shall not enter the land of Israel. Then you will know that I am the Lord” (20:38).
“And you shall know that I am the Lord, when I bring you into the land of Israel, the country that I swore to give to your fathers” (20:42).
“And you shall know that I am the Lord, when I deal with you for my name’s sake, not according to your evil ways, nor according to your corrupt deeds, O house of Israel, declares the Lord God” (20:44).
“And all flesh shall know that I am the Lord” (21:5).
Saviour, who this day didst break
the dark prison of the tomb,
Bid my slumbering soul awake:
Shine through all its sin and gloom:
Let me, from my bonds set free,
Rise from sin, and live to Thee.
Blessèd Spirit, Comforter,
Sent this day from Christ on high;
Lord, on me Thy gifts confer,
Cleanse, illumine, sanctify:
All Thine influence shed abroad;
Lead me to the truth of God. -- Julia Anne Elliott (1833)
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