Deuteronomy 1:1-18

 


Deuteronomy 1:1-18 provides the setting of the Book of Deuteronomy:
  • WHO:  Moses is speaking to all Israel (v. 1).
  • WHERE:  They are in the wilderness of Moab on the east side of the Jordan river across from the Promised Land (vv. 1-2).
  • WHEN:  It is 40 years after their delivery from slavery in Egypt (v. 3).
  • WHAT:  Moses reviews God's commandments and explains the law (vv.3-5).
  • WHY:  They are now once again about to "go in and take possession" of the Promised Land (vv. 6-8).  Verses 9-18 recount their leadership structure (ref. Exodus 18 and Numbers 11:16-25), which is particularly important as Moses will no longer be leading them into the Promised Land.
Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when studying this passage:

  • Verses 1-8
    • The Israelites are being given a second chance to claim the Promised Land, forty years later.  What are some second chances that I am grateful to God for in my life?
    • God gave Israel relatively recent victories over Sihon and Og (ref. Numbers 21:21-35), building their confidence for upcoming battles.  What past victories in my life can give me confidence for the future?
  • Verses 9-12
    • God fulfilled His covenant promise to Abraham (ref. Genesis 15:5) that the Israelites would become "as numerous as the stars of heaven" (v. 10).  What are some of the promises that God has fulfilled in my life?  
  • Verses 13-18
    • Based on theses verses, what are some characteristics of godly leaders?

For music inspired by this Scripture passage, following is a link to a YouTube video:
  • "Scripture Memory Song Deuteronomy 1:11" by Leslie Kings:  Link


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