Deuteronomistic Theology and Its Biblical Context

Introduction

• Discussion focuses on Deuteronomistic Theology at the end of the Pentateuch class.
• Alternative views: some scholars refer to a tetratuke (4 books) or hexatuke (6 books), aligning Deuteronomy closely with Joshua.
• Reason: Deuteronomistic Theology is strongly apparent from Deuteronomy and extends into Joshua and other books.

Understanding Deuteronomistic Theology

• Also known as Retribution Theology.
• Key principle: Obedience brings blessing; disobedience brings curses.
• Illustrated in: Deuteronomy 28 — blessings and curses contingent on obedience.

Examples in Scripture

Deuteronomic History (DTH)

• Comprises: Deuteronomy, Joshua, Judges, Samuel, and Kings.
• Examples:
  • Joshua: Blessing of Jericho for obedience; curse at Ai for disobedience.
  • Samuel: David's sin leads to the curse of losing a son.
  • Kings: Disobedience leads to the Babylonian exile.

Other Old Testament Books

• Psalms: Psalm 1 emphasizes the blessedness of the righteous.
• Proverbs: God's judgment brings good or evil outcomes.
• Ecclesiastes: Questions the immediate results of righteous living.
• Job: Challenges the simplistic application of retributive justice.

New Testament References

• Jesus and Paul: Emphasize that persecution can occur despite godly living.
• John 9: Jesus rejects the assumption that sin causes disability.
• Matthew 5: Presents blessings for those persecuted for righteousness.
• Romans 6: Sin results in death; righteousness gains eternal life.

Pushback Against Deuteronomistic Theology

In Scripture

• Deuteronomy 9: God blesses not due to Israel’s righteousness, but His own character.
• Job: Innocent suffering questions simple cause and effect.
• Ecclesiastes: Observes wickedness seemingly prospering.

New Testament

• Matthew 19: Rich young ruler's story questions the link between wealth and obedience.
• Jesus' Teachings: Challenge Jewish assumptions of wealth and obedience.

Considerations and Nuances

• Generally, there's a cause-effect relationship between action and experience.
• Old Testament often shows immediate consequences; New Testament suggests eternal outcomes.
• Avoid extremes:
  • Oversimplifying punishment as divine retribution.
  • Disregarding the importance of obedience.
• Encourage nuanced understanding, especially with Deuteronomy 5-11.

Conclusion

• Deuteronomistic Theology provides a framework but requires nuanced interpretation.
• Important to consider both immediate and long-term views of justice and righteousness throughout scripture.