Exodus 22-23

“You shall not bow down to their gods nor serve them, nor do as they do” (23:24).  God’s commands to the Israelites about how to live in the Promised Land always included a warning not to follow the gods of their neighbors.  “Normal” human, idolatrous society included things like oppressing the poor, children, widows, and foreigners, as well as sexual depravity and human sacrifice.  God called Israel to live differently: “You shall not pervert justice due to your poor … you shall not oppress a sojourner” (23:6,9).

“You shall serve the Lord your God” (23:25).  How we worship God and how we treat others are connected.  God calls us to live in a way that reflects His character.