Questions about the Nation of Israel

What did the nation of Israel do to first break the covenant? Which of the Ten Commandments did they break?

• They worshipped a golden calf, breaking the commandment against idolatry.

• They stole from each other, breaking the commandment against theft.

• They lied to Moses, breaking the commandment against bearing false witness.

• They worked on the Sabbath, breaking the commandment to keep it holy.

Why didn’t God wipe out the nation and start over?

• Because He had made a promise to Abraham.

• Because He wanted to test Moses.

• Because He was afraid of losing followers.

• Because He needed them to build the temple.

Why did the Israelites wander in the wilderness for forty years until a whole generation died out?

• Because they were lost and couldn’t find their way.

• Because they were being punished for their disobedience.

• Because they were waiting for Moses to return.

• Because they were gathering resources for the Promised Land.

Why did God deal more harshly with the nation after the covenant was established at Mount Sinai?

• Because they had more responsibilities.

• Because they were closer to the Promised Land.

• Because they had more resources.

• Because they had more leaders.

Should you be afraid of God? Why or why not?

• Yes, because fear leads to respect.

• No, because God is only love.

• Yes, because fear is the beginning of wisdom.

• No, because God does not punish.

What does sanctify mean? How would the people know whether they were sanctifying themselves?

• To make holy; by following rituals.

• To make clean; by washing hands.

• To make pure; by eating certain foods.

• To make strong; by exercising.

What does it mean for God to tell Israel that He will be their God? What does it mean for God to tell Israel that they will be His people?

• It means a special relationship; they must obey His laws.

• It means they will be wealthy; they must give offerings.

• It means they will be powerful; they must conquer lands.

• It means they will be famous; they must spread His name.

On the Day of Atonement, why was a second goat sent off into the desert after the first goat was sacrificed?

• To symbolize the removal of sin.

• To provide food for the journey.

• To serve as a peace offering.

• To act as a guide for the people.

What is discernment? How can you gain discernment?

• The ability to judge well; through prayer and study.

• The ability to see the future; through meditation.

• The ability to heal; through practice.

• The ability to speak in tongues; through fasting.

What is God’s “escape clause” from punishment? Why did He give this “escape clause”?

• Repentance; to offer mercy.

• Sacrifice; to demand loyalty.

• Fasting; to test faith.

• Pilgrimage; to encourage travel.