BSBKJVWEBYLTASVBBEWMBT4TDBY|HymnsMusicDonate
Menu
Home  › Bibles  › Berean Standard Bible  › Deuteronomy 1

Deuteronomy 1

BSB
‹ Chapter 0 Deuteronomy — All Chapters Chapter 2 ›

1 These are the words that Moses spoke to all Israel in the wilderness east of the Jordan—in the Arabah opposite Suph—between Paran and Tophel, Laban, Hazeroth, and Dizahab. 2 It is an eleven-day journey from Horeb to Kadesh-barnea by way of Mount Seir. 3 In the fortieth year, on the first day of the eleventh month, Moses proclaimed to the Israelites all that the LORD had commanded him concerning them. 4 This was after he had defeated Sihon king of the Amorites, who lived in Heshbon, and then at Edrei had defeated Og king of Bashan, who lived in Ashtaroth. 5 On the east side of the Jordan in the land of Moab, Moses began to explain this law, saying: 6 The LORD our God said to us at Horeb: “You have stayed at this mountain long enough. 7 Resume your journey and go to the hill country of the Amorites; go to all the neighboring peoples in the Arabah, in the hill country, in the foothills, in the Negev, and along the seacoast to the land of the Canaanites and to Lebanon, as far as the great River Euphrates. 8 See, I have placed the land before you. Enter and possess the land that the LORD swore He would give to your fathers Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and to their descendants after them." 9 At that time I said to you, “I cannot carry the burden for you alone. 10 The LORD your God has multiplied you, so that today you are as numerous as the stars in the sky. 11 May the LORD, the God of your fathers, increase you a thousand times over and bless you as He has promised. 12 But how can I bear your troubles, burdens, and disputes all by myself? 13 Choose for yourselves wise, understanding, and respected men from each of your tribes, and I will appoint them as your leaders." 14 And you answered me and said, “What you propose to do is good." 15 So I took the leaders of your tribes, wise and respected men, and appointed them as leaders over you—as commanders of thousands, of hundreds, of fifties, and of tens, and as officers for your tribes. 16 At that time I charged your judges: “Hear the disputes between your brothers, and judge fairly between a man and his brother or a foreign resident. 17 Show no partiality in judging; hear both small and great alike. Do not be intimidated by anyone, for judgment belongs to God. And bring to me any case too difficult for you, and I will hear it." 18 And at that time I commanded you all the things you were to do. 19 And just as the LORD our God had commanded us, we set out from Horeb and went toward the hill country of the Amorites, through all the vast and terrifying wilderness you have seen. When we reached Kadesh-barnea, 20 I said: “You have reached the hill country of the Amorites, which the LORD our God is giving us. 21 See, the LORD your God has placed the land before you. Go up and take possession of it as the LORD, the God of your fathers, has told you. Do not be afraid or discouraged." 22 Then all of you approached me and said, “Let us send men ahead of us to search out the land and bring us word of what route to follow and which cities to enter." 23 The plan seemed good to me, so I selected twelve men from among you, one from each tribe. 24 They left and went up into the hill country, and came to the Valley of Eshcol and spied out the land. 25 They took some of the fruit of the land in their hands, carried it down to us, and brought us word: “It is a good land that the LORD our God is giving us." 26 But you were unwilling to go up; you rebelled against the command of the LORD your God. 27 You grumbled in your tents and said, “Because the LORD hates us, He has brought us out of the land of Egypt to deliver us into the hand of the Amorites to be annihilated. 28 Where can we go? Our brothers have made our hearts melt, saying: ‘The people are larger and taller than we are; the cities are large, with walls up to the heavens. We even saw the descendants of the Anakim there.’" 29 So I said to you: “Do not be terrified or afraid of them! 30 The LORD your God, who goes before you, will fight for you, just as you saw Him do for you in Egypt 31 and in the wilderness, where the LORD your God carried you, as a man carries his son, all the way by which you traveled until you reached this place." 32 But in spite of all this, you did not trust the LORD your God, 33 who went before you on the journey, in the fire by night and in the cloud by day, to seek out a place for you to camp and to show you the road to travel. 34 When the LORD heard your words, He grew angry and swore an oath, saying, 35 “Not one of the men of this evil generation shall see the good land I swore to give your fathers, 36 except Caleb son of Jephunneh. He will see it, and I will give him and his descendants the land on which he has set foot, because he followed the LORD wholeheartedly." 37 The LORD was also angry with me on your account, and He said, “Not even you shall enter the land. 38 Joshua son of Nun, who stands before you, will enter it. Encourage him, for he will enable Israel to inherit the land. 39 And the little ones you said would become captives—your children who on that day did not know good from evil—will enter the land that I will give them, and they will possess it. 40 But you are to turn back and head for the wilderness along the route to the Red Sea. “ 41 “We have sinned against the LORD,” you replied. “We will go up and fight, as the LORD our God has commanded us.” Then each of you put on his weapons of war, thinking it easy to go up into the hill country. 42 But the LORD said to me, “Tell them not to go up and fight, for I am not with you to keep you from defeat by your enemies." 43 So I spoke to you, but you would not listen. You rebelled against the command of the LORD and presumptuously went up into the hill country. 44 Then the Amorites who lived in the hills came out against you and chased you like a swarm of bees. They routed you from Seir all the way to Hormah. 45 And you returned and wept before the LORD, but He would not listen to your voice or give ear to you. 46 For this reason you stayed in Kadesh for a long time—a very long time.

‹ Chapter 0 Deuteronomy — All Chapters Chapter 2 ›

Study Notes — Deuteronomy 1

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Chapter Summary

Deuteronomy chapter 1 begins with Moses recounting the Israelites' journey from Horeb to Kadesh-barnea, where they failed to trust God and enter the Promised Land (Deuteronomy 1:1-3). Moses then explains how God gave them the law and instructed them to take possession of the land (Deuteronomy 1:6-8). The chapter also describes the appointment of leaders to help Moses govern the people (Deuteronomy 1:9-18) and the Israelites' disobedience and lack of faith in God's promise (Deuteronomy 1:19-46).

Context for the Chapter

Deuteronomy chapter 1 serves as an introduction to the book of Deuteronomy, providing a historical context for the Israelites' journey and setting the stage for the rest of the book. It is situated in the larger narrative of the Old Testament, following the events of the book of Numbers and preceding the conquest of Canaan. The chapter's emphasis on God's faithfulness and the importance of obedience to His commands serves as a reminder of the central themes of the Old Testament, which ultimately point to the fulfillment of God's promises in Jesus Christ.

Heart Application

As believers, we are called to trust in God's faithfulness and sovereignty, just as the Israelites were called to trust in God's promise to give them the Promised Land. We must remember God's goodness and faithfulness in our own lives, and seek to obey His commands, even when it is difficult or challenging. By doing so, we demonstrate our trust in God's character and our commitment to following Him.

What Does This Chapter Mean?

Deuteronomy chapter 1 is about God's faithfulness to the Israelites and their failure to trust Him. The chapter reminds us of the importance of obedience to God's commands and the consequences of disobedience. As believers, we are called to trust in God's faithfulness and sovereignty, just as the Israelites were called to trust in God's promise to give them the Promised Land (Deuteronomy 1:31).

Voices from the Church

“The faithfulness of God is a rock upon which we may build our hopes, a foundation upon which we may rest our souls.”

— Charles Spurgeon

“The obedience of faith is not a mere outward conformity to God's commands, but a heartfelt trust in His goodness and sovereignty.”

— John Calvin

Outline for Preaching

  1. Introduction to Deuteronomy (1:1-5) — Moses recounts the Israelites' journey from Horeb to Kadesh-barnea, where they failed to trust God and enter the Promised Land.
  2. The Appointment of Leaders (1:9-18) — Moses explains how God gave them the law and instructed them to take possession of the land, and how he appointed leaders to help him govern the people.
  3. The Israelites' Disobedience (1:19-46) — The chapter describes the Israelites' disobedience and lack of faith in God's promise, and the consequences that followed.
  4. God's Faithfulness (1:31) — Moses highlights God's faithfulness and care for the Israelites, demonstrating His love and provision for His people.
  5. Conclusion (1:46-46) — The chapter concludes with a reminder of the Israelites' failure to trust God and the importance of obedience to His commands.

Core Doctrines

The Faithfulness of God
Deuteronomy chapter 1 emphasizes God's faithfulness and commitment to His people, demonstrating His love and provision for them.
The Importance of Obedience
The chapter highlights the importance of obedience to God's commands, demonstrating the consequences of disobedience and the rewards of faithfulness.
The Role of Leadership
The appointment of leaders in Deuteronomy 1:9-18 serves as a reminder of the importance of wise and godly leadership in the life of the believer.
The Consequences of Disobedience
The chapter demonstrates the consequences of disobedience, serving as a warning to the believer to take God's commands seriously and to trust in His sovereignty.

Lessons from Deuteronomy 1

  1. The Importance of Remembering God's Faithfulness — Deuteronomy chapter 1 emphasizes the importance of remembering God's faithfulness and provision, serving as a reminder to the believer to reflect on God's goodness and faithfulness in their own life.
  2. The Consequences of Disobedience — The chapter highlights the consequences of disobedience, demonstrating the importance of obedience to God's commands and the rewards of faithfulness.
  3. The Role of Leadership in the Life of the Believer — The appointment of leaders in Deuteronomy 1:9-18 serves as a reminder of the importance of wise and godly leadership in the life of the believer.
  4. The Importance of Trusting in God's Sovereignty — The chapter emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty and goodness, even when it is difficult or challenging.
  5. The Call to Obedience — Deuteronomy chapter 1 serves as a call to obedience, reminding the believer of the importance of trusting in God's commands and following Him.

Themes from Deuteronomy 1

  1. God's Faithfulness — Deuteronomy chapter 1 emphasizes God's faithfulness and commitment to His people, demonstrating His love and provision for them.
  2. The Importance of Obedience — The chapter highlights the importance of obedience to God's commands, demonstrating the consequences of disobedience and the rewards of faithfulness.
  3. The Role of Leadership — The appointment of leaders in Deuteronomy 1:9-18 serves as a reminder of the importance of wise and godly leadership in the life of the believer.
  4. The Consequences of Disobedience — The chapter demonstrates the consequences of disobedience, serving as a warning to the believer to take God's commands seriously and to trust in His sovereignty.
  5. The Call to Trust in God's Sovereignty — The chapter emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty and goodness, even when it is difficult or challenging.

Questions for Meditation

  1. What are some ways in which God has demonstrated His faithfulness in your life?
  2. How do you respond to God's commands, and what are some areas in which you struggle with obedience?
  3. What are some ways in which you can trust in God's sovereignty and goodness, even when it is difficult or challenging?
  4. How can you apply the lessons of Deuteronomy chapter 1 to your own life and relationships?
  5. What are some ways in which you can seek out and submit to godly leadership in your own life?

Detailed Chapter Outline

1. Introduction to Deuteronomy (1:1-5)

Deuteronomy 1:1 Moses recounts the Israelites' journey from Horeb to Kadesh-barnea, where they failed to trust God and enter the Promised Land.
Deuteronomy 1:2 The journey took eleven days, but the Israelites spent thirty-eight years in the wilderness due to their disobedience.

2. The Appointment of Leaders (1:9-18)

Deuteronomy 1:9 Moses explains how he appointed leaders to help him govern the people, due to the vast number of Israelites.
Deuteronomy 1:10 The Israelites had become as numerous as the stars in the sky, and Moses needed help to manage the people.

3. The Israelites' Disobedience (1:19-46)

Deuteronomy 1:19 The Israelites failed to trust God and enter the Promised Land, despite God's promise to give it to them.
Deuteronomy 1:20 Moses reminded the Israelites of God's promise and their failure to trust Him.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main theme of Deuteronomy chapter 1?

The main theme of Deuteronomy chapter 1 is the introduction to the book of Deuteronomy, providing a historical context for the Israelites' journey and setting the stage for the rest of the book. It emphasizes God's faithfulness and the importance of obedience to His commands (Deuteronomy 1:1-5).

What is the significance of the Israelites' journey from Horeb to Kadesh-barnea?

The Israelites' journey from Horeb to Kadesh-barnea serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and the importance of trusting in His promises. Despite their failure to trust God, He remained faithful and provided for them (Deuteronomy 1:31).

What are the consequences of disobedience, according to Deuteronomy chapter 1?

According to Deuteronomy chapter 1, the consequences of disobedience include failure to enter the Promised Land and spending thirty-eight years in the wilderness (Deuteronomy 1:19-46).

Top Cross References

ReferenceConnection
1 Deuteronomy 1:1 → Numbers 13:1-3 The Israelites' journey from Horeb to Kadesh-barnea is also described in Numbers 13:1-3, highlighting the importance of trusting in God's promises.
2 Deuteronomy 1:9 → Exodus 18:13-27 The appointment of leaders in Deuteronomy 1:9-18 is similar to the appointment of leaders in Exodus 18:13-27, demonstrating the importance of wise and godly leadership in the life of the believer.
3 Deuteronomy 1:19 → Hebrews 3:7-11 The Israelites' failure to trust God in Deuteronomy 1:19-46 serves as a warning to the believer to trust in God's sovereignty and goodness, as described in Hebrews 3:7-11.
4 Deuteronomy 1:31 → Psalm 103:13 God's faithfulness and care for the Israelites in Deuteronomy 1:31 is similar to the description of God's love and care for His people in Psalm 103:13.
5 Deuteronomy 1:32 → John 1:1 The Israelites' failure to trust God in Deuteronomy 1:32 serves as a contrast to the obedience of Christ, who perfectly fulfilled God's law (John 1:1).
6 Deuteronomy 1:35 → Matthew 24:31 The promise of God's faithfulness and care for His people in Deuteronomy 1:35 is fulfilled in the coming of Christ and the establishment of His kingdom, as described in Matthew 24:31.
7 Deuteronomy 1:39 → 1 Corinthians 10:1-13 The Israelites' failure to trust God in Deuteronomy 1:39 serves as a warning to the believer to trust in God's sovereignty and goodness, as described in 1 Corinthians 10:1-13.
8 Deuteronomy 1:45 → Revelation 21:1-4 The promise of God's faithfulness and care for His people in Deuteronomy 1:45 is fulfilled in the establishment of the new heaven and the new earth, as described in Revelation 21:1-4.
9 Deuteronomy 1:46 → Isaiah 40:28-31 The Israelites' failure to trust God in Deuteronomy 1:46 serves as a reminder of the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty and goodness, as described in Isaiah 40:28-31.
10 Deuteronomy 1:1-5 → Joshua 1:1-9 The introduction to Deuteronomy in Deuteronomy 1:1-5 serves as a transition to the book of Joshua, which describes the conquest of Canaan and the establishment of the Israelites in the Promised Land.

Sermons on Deuteronomy 1

SermonDescription
David Wilkerson The Lord Will Fight for You by David Wilkerson In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of trusting in God and having faith in Him. He encourages the congregation to look back on their lives and see the many times
David Wilkerson Believe in the Light Lest Darkness Come Upon You by David Wilkerson In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of recognizing and acknowledging the supernatural power of God. He highlights the story of Jesus feeding the 5,000 and the 4,
A.W. Tozer (How to Get Out of a Religious Rut): Errors in Thinking by A.W. Tozer In this sermon, the preacher discusses a man who is struggling and feeling unable to be the person he wants to be. However, he realizes that through Jesus Christ, he can find freed
A.W. Tozer (How to Get Out of a Religious Rut): Rote, Rut, and Rot! by A.W. Tozer In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the need to break free from spiritual stagnation and move forward in our relationship with God. He acknowledges that people often prefer spe
A.W. Tozer (How to Get Out of a Religious Rut): It's Imperative to Get Out of the Rut Now! by A.W. Tozer In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being wholehearted Christians and not settling for a half-hearted faith. He urges the congregation to take their faith ser
A.W. Tozer (How to Get Out of a Religious Rut): The Church in the Rut by A.W. Tozer In this sermon, the preacher uses the analogy of a radio signal fading out as one travels away from the city to illustrate how the passing of time can dull a person's religious fee
J. Vernon McGee God’s War on Poverty and Riches by J. Vernon McGee In this sermon titled "God's War on Poverty and Riches," Dr. J. Vernon McGee discusses the concept of poverty and riches from a biblical perspective. He highlights that God is not
Jackie Pullinger Running Your Race (Bilingual) by Jackie Pullinger In this sermon, the speaker reflects on their own struggles and doubts in teaching the word of God. They mention how a group of teenagers encouraged them and reminded them that the
Major Ian Thomas A Day to Be Remembered by Major Ian Thomas In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of allowing God to take over and lead us into a new chapter in our lives. He encourages the audience to desire to leave behin
David Wilkerson The House Jesus Is Building by David Wilkerson In this sermon, the speaker addresses the situation of the Israelites in the wilderness, specifically focusing on their lack of water after three days. The people are complaining a

Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Deuteronomy 1

According to Matthew Henry, Deuteronomy chapter 1 serves as an introduction to the book of Deuteronomy, providing a historical context for the Israelites' journey and setting the stage for the rest of the book. Henry emphasizes the importance of remembering God's faithfulness and provision, as well as the consequences of disobedience. He also highlights the role of leadership in the life of the believer, noting that wise and godly leaders are essential for the well-being of God's people. Ultimately, Henry sees Deuteronomy chapter 1 as a call to obedience and trust in God's sovereignty, reminding the believer of the importance of following God's commands and trusting in His goodness. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →

What Do You Notice?

The importance of remembering God's faithfulness

Throughout Deuteronomy chapter 1, Moses emphasizes the importance of remembering God's faithfulness and provision. This serves as a reminder to the believer to reflect on God's goodness and faithfulness in their own life.

The consequences of disobedience

The chapter highlights the consequences of disobedience, demonstrating the importance of obedience to God's commands. This serves as a warning to the believer to take God's commands seriously and to trust in His sovereignty.

The role of leadership in the life of the believer

The appointment of leaders in Deuteronomy 1:9-18 serves as a reminder of the importance of wise and godly leadership in the life of the believer. This highlights the need for believers to seek out and submit to godly leadership in their own lives.

Everything we make is available for free because of a generous community of supporters.

Donate