Deu 17:7 | TNotes | STEP | 17:7 The instruction for witnesses to throw the first stones guarded against unfounded allegations. False testimony carried serious consequences. Requiring a witness to take the leading role in an execution helped guarantee the reliability of his testimony; he would personally bear the guilt if he took the life of an innocent person (see John 8:1-11 ). • The people would purge the evil from among you by executing those whose sin brought the stain of guilt upon the community of Israel (see thematic note for Purge the Evil at end of chapter; cp. 1 Cor 5:12-13 and study note).

bJohn 8:1-11►

c1 Cor 5:12-13►

‏ Deuteronomy 17:7

17:7 ^a The instruction for witnesses to throw the first stones guarded against unfounded allegations. False testimony carried serious consequences. Requiring a witness to take the leading role in an execution helped guarantee the reliability of his testimony; he would personally bear the guilt if he took the life of an innocent person (see John 8:1-11 ^b).

• The people would purge the evil from among you by executing those whose sin brought the stain of guilt upon the community of Israel (see thematic note for Purge the Evil at end of chapter; cp. 1 Cor 5:12-13 ^c and study note).