Deuteronomy chapter 13

vs 1

Not something our modern laws really discuss, is it?

vs 2

But you can see the reason such laws need to be in place here. In modern times, this person would be known as someone causing civil disquiet. It is against the law to incite others to break the law.

This prophet in this legal example is doing more than that - they are inciting people to break God's law. So obviously that has to be dealt with.

vs 3

This is hardcore. People laugh about the "fossils are there to test the faithful" thing, but the principle is actually backed up here (I am not saying I think fossils are there to test the faithful). But God says that he will allow prophets not only to come and speak, but to actually have signs and wonders occur for them, so that it could seem that their words were genuine because they are marked by wonders and signs. This means that you actually have to listen to what they say, and judge it by what you know God says and who he is. This means knowing those things.

vs 4

That is, it is God you must follow, not the people who tell you about him. You must know God yourself, individually and corporately, but directly.

vs 5

The New Testament has a slightly different attitude. Churches do not have the ability to give death sentences. But God makes his opinion clear on people who attempt to lead others away from his revealed truth.

vs 6

These are the people closest to you. That you most admire, you most respect. That you love and are devoted to. Not just some guy who appeared from over the hill with signs and wonders.

vs 7

Quick clarification of what is meant by "other gods".

vs 8

Do not yield to them is obvious. But wait, don't shield them or show them pity? Why, what's going to happen to my son or daughter, my wife or husband, my brother, sister or best friend?

vs 9

If it's not clear from this law, then it's never going to be clear. God comes first. There is nothing, no-one, more important than God and your relationship with God. Your worship of God is more important that the lives of your whole family. Think about that.