Deuteronomy - Remembrance

 


Deuteronomy literally means second law.  This book provides a review of the Law and concludes the Pentateuch (i.e., the first five books of the Bible:  Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy).  It is also a book of transitions with God speaking through Moses to teach His People what He wants them to know, as they transition from 40 years of wandering in the wilderness to finally entering the Promised Land.

Moses is now 120 years old.  He has been the leader of the Israelites in the wilderness ever since they were delivered from slavery in Egypt.  However, he will not be entering the Promised Land, so Deuteronomy essentially records his farewell speeches as he transitions leadership to Joshua.  A common outline for the Book of Deuteronomy is structured around three speeches of Moses:

I.  Introduction (1:1-5)
II. First Speech (1:6-4:43) - Historical Review
III. Second Speech (4:44-28:68) - Covenant Stipulations
IV. Third Speech (29:1-30:20) - Final Exhortations
V.  Conclusion and Leadership Succession (31:1-34:12)

We are calling this Bible study series "Deuteronomy - Remembrance" because this is a reminder of God's deliverance and how the people of God are to live in obedience to His Law in keeping with the Covenant.  About 14 times in the Book of Deuteronomy, the Israelites were instructed to remember and not forget (e.g., 4:9-14, 5:15, etc.).  This was their opportunity to renew their covenant with the LORD.

As we embark on this new journey through a study in the Book of Deuteronomy, may it provide a review and conclusion to our previous studies of the Pentateuch (Genesis through Numbers).   May we also learn to live in obedience to God's Law in keeping with our covenant.  And, if we are going through a time of transition, may this help in preparation for what God has planned for us next.


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