Why so serious?

I stole this line from the movie Dark Knight, I'll admit.

Ever read one of those passages in the Bible that seems to portray God in a way that doesn't make sense at all?

In chapter 24 when a young man is stoned to death because he curses "the Name" of God, it can seem pretty harsh for a small infraction. Shouldn't the punishment fit the crime? Why such a harsh judgment on something that seems so small? This is one of those OT passages that skeptics use to paint out God to be a cruel tyrant of a God.

Are they true? How could a loving God endorse such a cruel thing such as this? This is a valid question to ask of the situation.

Knowing the cultural context and also the Scriptural background leading up to this event helps. Going back to previous posts, God made a covenant (something like a modern day contract) with the people of Israel. Part of that covenant were strict guidelines to be followed, as was customary in that time when two parties entered into an agreement. Much of the covenant agreement is found surrounding the 10 'Words'.

God made it abundantly clear to all the people that were certain things that crossed the line and were totally out of bounds for people. LIke a parent who is fair, the definition of the transgression along with the punishment were crystal clear up front. One thing we know for sure from the entirety of Scripture is the justice and fairness of God. Knowing this, we approach texts like this understanding that God is not a Deity who is flying off the handle about something illogical that no one understands.

This person who cursed the Name, was fully aware of the decision he made to do what he did. This is probably why this is included in Scripture, because someone knowing full well the consequences, kamikazeed himself in this way. The fact that he cursed God was an indictment upon himself. He was making a statement that he wanted absolutely nothing to do with God and made this known in a very brazen way.

Therefore, we know that the punishment fit the crime, God is never unjust.

Chapter summaries

23 calendar of sacred assemblies/feasts
24 blasphemer stoned
25 Sabbath and Jubilee instructions
26 covenant reward & punishments