Deuteronomy 31
BSB1 When Moses had finished speaking these words to all Israel, 2 he said to them, “I am now a hundred and twenty years old; I am no longer able to come and go, and the LORD has said to me, ‘You shall not cross the Jordan.’ 3 The LORD your God Himself will cross over ahead of you. He will destroy these nations before you, and you will dispossess them. Joshua will cross ahead of you, as the LORD has said. 4 And the LORD will do to them as He did to Sihon and Og, the kings of the Amorites, when He destroyed them along with their land. 5 The LORD will deliver them over to you, and you must do to them exactly as I have commanded you. 6 Be strong and courageous; do not be afraid or terrified of them, for it is the LORD your God who goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you." 7 Then Moses called for Joshua and said to him in the presence of all Israel, “Be strong and courageous, for you will go with this people into the land that the LORD swore to their fathers to give them, and you shall give it to them as an inheritance. 8 The LORD Himself goes before you; He will be with you. He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid or discouraged." 9 So Moses wrote down this law and gave it to the priests, the sons of Levi, who carried the ark of the covenant of the LORD, and to all the elders of Israel. 10 Then Moses commanded them, “At the end of every seven years, at the appointed time in the year of remission of debt, during the Feast of Tabernacles, 11 when all Israel comes before the LORD your God at the place He will choose, you are to read this law in the hearing of all Israel. 12 Assemble the people—men, women, children, and the foreigners within your gates—so that they may listen and learn to fear the LORD your God and to follow carefully all the words of this law. 13 Then their children who do not know the law will listen and learn to fear the LORD your God, as long as you live in the land that you are crossing the Jordan to possess." 14 Then the LORD said to Moses, “Behold, the time of your death is near. Call Joshua and present yourselves at the Tent of Meeting, so that I may commission him.” So Moses and Joshua went and presented themselves at the Tent of Meeting. 15 Then the LORD appeared at the tent in a pillar of cloud, and the cloud stood over the entrance to the tent. 16 And the LORD said to Moses, “You will soon rest with your fathers, and these people will rise up and prostitute themselves with the foreign gods of the land they are entering. They will forsake Me and break the covenant I have made with them. 17 On that day My anger will burn against them, and I will abandon them and hide My face from them, so that they will be consumed, and many troubles and afflictions will befall them. On that day they will say, ‘Have not these disasters come upon us because our God is no longer with us?’ 18 And on that day I will surely hide My face because of all the evil they have done by turning to other gods. 19 Now therefore, write down for yourselves this song and teach it to the Israelites; have them recite it, so that it may be a witness for Me against them. 20 When I have brought them into the land that I swore to give their fathers, a land flowing with milk and honey, they will eat their fill and prosper. Then they will turn to other gods and worship them, and they will reject Me and break My covenant. 21 And when many troubles and afflictions have come upon them, this song will testify against them, because it will not be forgotten from the lips of their descendants. For I know their inclination, even before I bring them into the land that I swore to give them." 22 So that very day Moses wrote down this song and taught it to the Israelites. 23 Then the LORD commissioned Joshua son of Nun and said, “Be strong and courageous, for you will bring the Israelites into the land that I swore to give them, and I will be with you." 24 When Moses had finished writing in a book the words of this law from beginning to end, 25 he gave this command to the Levites who carried the ark of the covenant of the LORD: 26 “Take this Book of the Law and place it beside the ark of the covenant of the LORD your God, so that it may remain there as a witness against you. 27 For I know how rebellious and stiff-necked you are. If you are already rebelling against the LORD while I am still alive, how much more will you rebel after my death! 28 Assemble before me all the elders of your tribes and all your officers so that I may speak these words in their hearing and call heaven and earth to witness against them. 29 For I know that after my death you will become utterly corrupt and turn from the path I have commanded you. And in the days to come, disaster will befall you because you will do evil in the sight of the LORD to provoke Him to anger by the work of your hands." 30 Then Moses recited aloud to the whole assembly of Israel the words of this song from beginning to end:
Study Notes — Deuteronomy 31
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from Deuteronomy 31
- Themes from Deuteronomy 31
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on Deuteronomy 31
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
Deuteronomy chapter 31 begins with Moses' announcement of his impending death and the transition of leadership to Joshua (Deuteronomy 31:1-3). Moses then commissions Joshua to lead the people into the Promised Land, promising God's presence and support (Deuteronomy 31:7-8). The chapter also includes a warning to the people to remain faithful to God's commands, lest they suffer the consequences of disobedience (Deuteronomy 31:16-18, 20-21). The chapter concludes with Moses' final instructions to the people and the Levites, including the command to read the law every seven years (Deuteronomy 31:9-13).
Context for the Chapter
Deuteronomy chapter 31 is part of the larger narrative of the book of Deuteronomy, which is a series of sermons given by Moses to the Israelites before they enter the Promised Land. The chapter is also part of the larger biblical narrative, which tells the story of God's relationship with His people and His faithfulness to them. This chapter is significant because it marks the transition of leadership from Moses to Joshua and sets the stage for the conquest of Canaan.
Heart Application
This chapter reminds us of the importance of faithfulness to God's commands and the consequences of disobedience. It also encourages us to trust in God's presence and support, even in the face of challenges and uncertainties. As we reflect on this chapter, we should ask ourselves if we are being faithful to God's commands and if we are trusting in His presence and support.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
Deuteronomy chapter 31 is about the transition of leadership from Moses to Joshua and the renewal of the covenant between God and the Israelites. It emphasizes the importance of faithfulness to God's commands and the consequences of disobedience. As seen in Deuteronomy 31:6, God promises to be with Joshua and the Israelites, and this promise is fulfilled in Christ. The chapter encourages us to trust in God's presence and support, even in the face of challenges and uncertainties.
Voices from the Church
“The covenant which God made with the Israelites was not only a covenant of works, but also a covenant of grace, for it was based on God's promise to be their God and to bless them.”
— John Calvin
“The presence of God is the greatest comfort that we can have in this life, for it is the presence of God that gives us strength, courage, and peace.”
— Charles Spurgeon
Outline for Preaching
- Introduction (31:1-3) — Moses announces his impending death and the transition of leadership to Joshua.
- Commissioning of Joshua (31:7-8) — Moses commissions Joshua to lead the people into the Promised Land, promising God's presence and support.
- Warning to the People (31:16-18) — God warns the people of the consequences of disobedience and idolatry.
- Reading of the Law (31:9-13) — Moses commands the people to read the law every seven years, emphasizing the importance of obedience to God's commands.
- Conclusion (31:23-30) — Moses concludes his instructions to the people and the Levites, emphasizing the importance of faithfulness to God's covenant.
Core Doctrines
- Covenant Theology
- Deuteronomy chapter 31 teaches us about the covenant between God and the Israelites, emphasizing the importance of faithfulness to God's commands and the consequences of disobedience.
- Leadership
- The chapter highlights the importance of leaders in guiding God's people, demonstrating the transition of leadership from Moses to Joshua.
- God's Presence
- The promise of God's presence and support is a comforting theme in Deuteronomy chapter 31, reminding the Israelites that God is always with them.
- Obedience
- The chapter emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's commands, warning the people of the consequences of disobedience.
Lessons from Deuteronomy 31
- Leadership Lessons — The transition of leadership from Moses to Joshua teaches us about the importance of humility and recognition of one's own limitations in leadership.
- Faithfulness — The chapter emphasizes the importance of faithfulness to God's commands, warning us of the consequences of disobedience.
- God's Presence — The promise of God's presence and support is a comforting theme in Deuteronomy chapter 31, reminding us that God is always with us.
- Obedience — The chapter highlights the importance of obedience to God's commands, emphasizing the consequences of disobedience.
- Trust in God — The chapter encourages us to trust in God's presence and support, even in the face of challenges and uncertainties.
Themes from Deuteronomy 31
- Covenant Renewal — Deuteronomy chapter 31 is about the renewal of the covenant between God and the Israelites, emphasizing the importance of faithfulness to God's commands.
- Leadership Transition — The chapter highlights the transition of leadership from Moses to Joshua, demonstrating the importance of humility and recognition of one's own limitations in leadership.
- God's Faithfulness — The promise of God's presence and support is a comforting theme in Deuteronomy chapter 31, reminding the Israelites that God is always with them.
- Obedience and Disobedience — The chapter emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's commands, warning the people of the consequences of disobedience.
- Trust in God's Presence — The chapter encourages us to trust in God's presence and support, even in the face of challenges and uncertainties.
Questions for Meditation
- What is the significance of the transition of leadership from Moses to Joshua in Deuteronomy chapter 31?
- How does Deuteronomy chapter 31 emphasize the importance of faithfulness to God's commands?
- What is the promise of God's presence and support in Deuteronomy chapter 31, and how is it fulfilled in Christ?
- What are the consequences of disobedience to God's commands, as warned in Deuteronomy chapter 31?
- How can we apply the teachings of Deuteronomy chapter 31 to our own lives, trusting in God's presence and support?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. Introduction (31:1-3)
| 31:1 | Moses announces his impending death and the transition of leadership to Joshua. |
| 31:2 | Moses recognizes his own limitations and the need for a new leader. |
2. Commissioning of Joshua (31:7-8)
| 31:7 | Moses commissions Joshua to lead the people into the Promised Land. |
| 31:8 | Moses promises God's presence and support for Joshua and the Israelites. |
3. Warning to the People (31:16-18)
| 31:16 | God warns the people of the consequences of disobedience and idolatry. |
| 31:17 | God promises to hide His face from the people if they disobey Him. |
| 31:18 | God warns the people of the dangers of idolatry and the consequences of disobedience. |
4. Reading of the Law (31:9-13)
| 31:9 | Moses commands the people to read the law every seven years. |
| 31:10 | Moses emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's commands. |
| 31:11 | Moses commands the people to assemble before God to read the law. |
| 31:12 | Moses emphasizes the importance of teaching the law to the children. |
| 31:13 | Moses commands the people to read the law so that they may learn to fear God. |
5. Conclusion (31:23-30)
| 31:23 | Moses concludes his instructions to the people and the Levites. |
| 31:24 | Moses emphasizes the importance of faithfulness to God's covenant. |
| 31:25 | Moses commands the Levites to place the law beside the ark of the covenant. |
| 31:26 | Moses warns the people of the dangers of disobedience and idolatry. |
| 31:27 | Moses emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's commands. |
| 31:28 | Moses commands the people to assemble before God to witness against them. |
| 31:29 | Moses warns the people of the consequences of disobedience. |
| 31:30 | Moses concludes his song and the people listen to his words. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the transition of leadership from Moses to Joshua in Deuteronomy chapter 31?
The transition of leadership from Moses to Joshua is significant because it demonstrates the importance of humility and recognition of one's own limitations in leadership. As seen in Deuteronomy 31:1-3, Moses recognizes his own limitations and the need for a new leader.
How does Deuteronomy chapter 31 emphasize the importance of faithfulness to God's commands?
Deuteronomy chapter 31 emphasizes the importance of faithfulness to God's commands by warning the people of the consequences of disobedience and idolatry. As seen in Deuteronomy 31:16-18, God warns the people of the dangers of disobedience and the consequences of idolatry.
What is the promise of God's presence and support in Deuteronomy chapter 31, and how is it fulfilled in Christ?
The promise of God's presence and support in Deuteronomy chapter 31 is fulfilled in Christ, who is always with us. As seen in Deuteronomy 31:6, God promises to be with Joshua and the Israelites, and this promise is fulfilled in Christ, who is our rock and our salvation.
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Deuteronomy 31:6 → Hebrews 13:5 | The promise of God's presence and support in Deuteronomy 31:6 is fulfilled in Christ, who is always with us. |
| 2 | Deuteronomy 31:7 → Joshua 1:5 | The commissioning of Joshua in Deuteronomy 31:7 is repeated in Joshua 1:5, emphasizing God's presence and support for Joshua. |
| 3 | Deuteronomy 31:9 → 2 Kings 23:2 | The reading of the law in Deuteronomy 31:9 is repeated in 2 Kings 23:2, emphasizing the importance of obedience to God's commands. |
| 4 | Deuteronomy 31:16 → Romans 1:18-32 | The warning against idolatry in Deuteronomy 31:16 is repeated in Romans 1:18-32, emphasizing the dangers of idolatry and the consequences of disobedience. |
| 5 | Deuteronomy 31:20 → Luke 15:11-32 | The parable of the prodigal son in Luke 15:11-32 illustrates the theme of God's faithfulness and love, even in the face of disobedience and idolatry. |
| 6 | Deuteronomy 31:23 → Hebrews 12:1-2 | The encouragement to trust in God's presence and support in Deuteronomy 31:23 is repeated in Hebrews 12:1-2, emphasizing the importance of faith and perseverance. |
| 7 | Deuteronomy 31:24 → Psalm 119:105 | The importance of God's word in Deuteronomy 31:24 is repeated in Psalm 119:105, emphasizing the role of Scripture in guiding our lives. |
| 8 | Deuteronomy 31:26 → 1 Timothy 4:13 | The command to read the law in Deuteronomy 31:26 is repeated in 1 Timothy 4:13, emphasizing the importance of teaching and preaching the word of God. |
| 9 | Deuteronomy 31:29 → 2 Timothy 4:2 | The warning against disobedience in Deuteronomy 31:29 is repeated in 2 Timothy 4:2, emphasizing the importance of preaching the word of God and warning against false teaching. |
| 10 | Deuteronomy 31:30 → Revelation 15:3-4 | The song of Moses in Deuteronomy 31:30 is repeated in Revelation 15:3-4, emphasizing the theme of God's faithfulness and love, even in the face of disobedience and idolatry. |
Sermons on Deuteronomy 31
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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The Lord Giveth by E.V. Hill | In this sermon transcript, Dr. Evie Hill delivers a heartfelt message at his wife's funeral. He reflects on the 32 years they spent together and the love and support she gave him. |
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Four Wonderful Discoveries by Warren Wiersbe | In this sermon, the speaker discusses the providence of God and how He prepares and guides His people. He emphasizes that if God has led someone to a particular church or ministry, |
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A Great Apostasy by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of maintaining a childlike trust and confidence in God. He criticizes the modern methods and techniques used in churches and |
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Don't Be Dismayed, God Will Not Fail You by Carter Conlon | In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of Joshua in the book of Joshua, chapter 8. The Lord speaks to Joshua and tells him not to fear or be discouraged, as He has given |
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Call No Man Common or Unclean by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of Peter in Acts 10, starting at verse 9. Peter goes up to pray and becomes hungry, but while waiting for food, he falls into a tr |
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The Man Who Lived on Promises by Warren Wiersbe | In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal story about his son breaking his leg while being heroic at a low-budget camp. He emphasizes that explanations don't make us feel bette |
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The Secret Door by Corrie Ten Boom | In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal story about a boy named Martin who had a life-changing encounter with a lady who saved his life and taught him how to invite Jesus int |
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Do Not Be Discouraged by A.W. Tozer | In this sermon, the preacher talks about feeling captive and discouraged in life. He uses the example of Ezekiel, who was held captive and had his freedom taken away. The preacher |
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Genesis #19 Ch. 29:31 - Ch. 31:14 the Sons of Israel by Chuck Missler | In this 19th study in the book of Genesis, Chuck Misler discusses Genesis chapter 29, verse 31, through chapter 31, verse 14. He begins by sharing an anecdote about meeting Malcolm |
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The Ancient War Cry by Eric Ludy | This sermon emphasizes the spiritual warfare Christians are engaged in, calling for a return to the ancient war cry of 'Kasach' and 'Emas' which symbolize spiritual zeal, audacity, |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Deuteronomy 31
Matthew Henry's commentary on Deuteronomy 31 emphasizes the importance of faithfulness to God's commands and the consequences of disobedience. Henry notes that the transition of leadership from Moses to Joshua is a significant event, demonstrating the importance of humility and recognition of one's own limitations in leadership. Henry also highlights the promise of God's presence and support, which is fulfilled in Christ. As Henry writes, 'The presence of God is the greatest comfort that we can have in this life, for it is the presence of God that gives us strength, courage, and peace.' Henry's commentary encourages readers to trust in God's presence and support, even in the face of challenges and uncertainties, and to remain faithful to God's commands. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
Moses' Humility
Moses' willingness to transition leadership to Joshua demonstrates his humility and recognition of his own limitations. This is evident in Deuteronomy 31:1-3, where Moses announces his impending death and the transition of leadership.
God's Faithfulness
The chapter emphasizes God's faithfulness to His people, promising to be with them and support them in the challenges they face. This is seen in Deuteronomy 31:6, where God promises to never leave or forsake Joshua and the Israelites.
The Importance of Obedience
The chapter highlights the importance of obedience to God's commands, warning the people of the consequences of disobedience. This is evident in Deuteronomy 31:16-18, where God warns the people of the consequences of idolatry and disobedience.