Deu 22: "As Yahweh's holy nation, Israel is to be governed by
His laws, which will give them a unique character as a people, within the world
of Gentiles. This chapter legislates for the following: consideration for the
property of others (vv 1-4); the sexes to be clearly distinguished by dress (v
5); care to be given to the natural fauna (vv 6,7); building construction to
provide protection for others (v 8); Yahweh's distinction in nature to be
respected (vv 9-11); Israelites to be distinguished in dress (v 12); protective
care to be afforded the unloved bride (vv 13-19); adultery punishable with death
(vv 20-22); rapists to be stoned (vv 23-27); fornicators to be suppressed (vv
28,29); and incest strictly forbidden (v 30).
"The legislation in this chapter relates to failings that are
increasingly plaguing the modern world. It is interesting, therefore, to compare
its requirements with the attitude of current society; for it relates to areas
of deep concern. In an age of ruthless indifference to the wellbeing and
consideration of others, it is refreshing to consider the Law's demands
requiring the observance of mutual assistance as here laid down (vv 1-4). In an
environment that is exploiting natural resources with terrifying thoroughness
and flouting long established distinctions, it speaks of the Divine order in
nature which can be ignored only at humanity's peril (vv 5-12). In a social
order which increasingly condones the exploitation of human beings as pawns in
the game of sex, it emphasises the Divine order among men, and requires
recognition of the sanctity of marriage (vv 13-20). People are not simply bodies
to be played with. In an era of anarchy that is intent upon throwing off all
restraint, it sets forth the basis of an orderly world. That basis is not law
itself; but respect for law. To defy law, as modern society does, is to court
both licence and anarchy. Divine law cannot be broken without hurt to those who
do so. Yahweh's purpose will prevail. If the world persists in throwing itself
against His principles, it will destroy itself. It is rapidly nearing that
state, so that only the return of the Lord will save it (Rev 11:18)"
(Expos).
Deu 22:9
Sowing: What to sow: Luke 8:11. What not to sow: Deu 22:9. How
to sow: Psa 126:5,6. When to sow: Ecc 11:6. The reward of sowing: 1Co
15:58.
Deu 22:10
Unequal yoking -- the principle: What God has joined, we must
not separate. What God has separated, we must not join. Unequal yoking is (a)
unfitting -- because of differences in size, temperament, strength. The ox is
clean, and the ass unclean. Unequal yoking is (b) unfair -- because both would
suffer pain, discomfort. Thus unequal yoking leads to a poor working
combination.
Deu 22:23
Vv 23,24: An adulteress is put to death (Lev 20:10). A
betrothed (engaged) woman is treated as though already married (called "wife" in
v 24: cp Mat 1:20).
Deu 22:28
Cp Exo 22:16,17: one who is "enticed". Remedy: marriage
(here), or payment of dowry so she can marry someone else (Exo
22:16,17).