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do not enter

Deuteronomy 23:1-2 (JDV)

Deuteronomy 23:1 “No man whose testicles have been crushed or whose penis has been eliminated may enter Yahveh ‘s collected assembly.
Deuteronomy 23:2 No one of illegitimate birth may enter Yahveh’s collected assembly; none of his descendants, even to the tenth generation, may enter Yahveh’s collected assembly.

do not enter

So much for “just as I am.” I have read quite a few commentaries on these verses, and I have to confess that I am not sure I can defend other people’s explanation of it. Nevertheless, I trust God’s word, and I am sure there is a reason for these prohibitions. It may possibly have to do with keeping the collected assembly pure from any appearance of shame. Our communities need to reflect God’s purity and glory.

But I think this rule reflects the fact that in eternity no one will live in Christ’s kingdom who is not 100% redeemed.

It is comforting that Jesus makes no such prohibition for his covenant. He took on all our brokenness, even that which we were born into — thus could not prevent.

Thank you Lord for making us whole so that we can enter your collected assembly.