On what was godly character based in Israel? How did an Israelite know when he or she exhibited godly character? Today some quickly would conclude that Israel's sacrificial worship confirmed godly character. Some might conclude [prior to Jesus Christ] Israel demonstrated godly character through faithful worship. They came to the "place where God caused His name to dwell" (Deuteronomy 12:11) with their appropriate sacrifices on the appointed occasions. They observed the Sabbaths in appropriate ways. They gave the firstborn of everything to God. And, without fail, they tithed. Some might conclude that through these things an Israelite demonstrated godly character.
In no way does this lesson suggest an Israelite of godly character failed to obediently worship God. However, this lesson does call attention to a truth the Israelite of godly character understood. In fact, godly Israelites more likely understood this truth than many who seek Christ today.
Today's concept of godliness tends to focus on public worship. Today's concept of godliness tends to affirm its existence by what occurs in a church building. Today's concept of godliness tends to express itself in public acts of worship. In today's concepts, when one affirms godliness, he or she is assumed to be a person of character. While that is a common concept today, it was not the understanding of the Israelite devoted to godly character.
An Israelite of godly character did more than obediently offer sacrificial worship and observe God's ordinances. Godly character welcomed the Israelite who worshipped into the fellowship of God's presence. Emphasized in another way: whom did God want to praise and honor Him in worship? The person of godly character.
Psalm 15 emphasized the importance of godly character in Israel. The psalm began with a question: "Who can live before God?" The likely context: what worshipper is welcomed by God into His presence? The Christian might be surprised at the answer. Again, the emphasis is not on acts of sacrificial worship. The emphasis is not on Israel's worship rituals. The emphasis is not on approved procedures and occasions. The emphasis is on social responsibility.
The Israelite who yearned to live in God's presence, who yearned for his worship acts to be accepted by God was godly in his treatment of others. Daily he behaved in his association with others in these ways: (1) He was a person of integrity. (2) He was trustworthy [devoted to the fair treatment of others]. (3) He spoke truth from the heart. (4) He did not slander. (5) He did not say hurtful things about his friends. (6) He did not respect those who refused to honor God or people. (7) He honored those who reverenced God. (8) When he made a promise that produced hurt to himself, he kept it. (9) He did not make money from interest. His financial security was not produced by the misfortune of others. (10) He would not allow bribery to direct his concern away from the innocent. He realized all these qualities were the building blocks for an enduring life.
The first thing that should capture your attention is this: godly character is expressed in the way a person treats others. It is not enough to approach God properly. He or she who approaches God properly treats other people with godly consideration.
The second thing that should capture your attention are the qualities that produce godly character. The person of godly character has genuine consideration for others. Note his concerns focus on (1) fairness to all; (2) protecting others from unjust thoughts and words; (3) honoring those who honor God; (4) keeping promises; (5) refusing to profit financially from the misery of others; and (6) preserving the dignity of the innocent.
Perhaps the depth of an Israelite's commitment to godly character is seen in his commitment to keeping his promises. Keeping one's promise when the result was to his disadvantage requires genuine commitment to godly character. Swearing or taking oaths was the common means in their world for making and confirming agreements. At times a person sealed (signed) an agreement (contract) later to realize his cost for keeping the agreement would be unreasonable. Even so, commitment to godly character meant he would do as he promised. The "deal" would stand. That was the fair, honorable, truthful thing to do. His integrity was more important than his disadvantage. Because of his reputation? Yes. But, more so, because of his relationship with God. One cannot live in God's presence and break his promises.
In our American society:
Discussion question:
What qualities must govern the Christian man or woman who is committed to being a person of godly character?
Link to Teacher's Guide
Lesson 4