Laws About True and False Leaders — continued

18:1-8
These verses address the provision that was to be made by the people for the welfare of those who “stand and serve in the name of the Lord forever” (18:5). Because the tribe of Levi was not given an allotment of land in Canaan (18:1-2), they were to be sustained by the offerings the people made to the Lord (18:3-4). This provision was for both those serving at the central place of worship and away from it (18:6-8).

18:9-14
Moses knew that the people would face many dangers in the Promised Land. One of the greatest dangers was from the occult. Moses warned the people not to investigate or participate in any occult practice. The Israelites were a holy people. They had the benefit of God’s words and instruction regarding how to live their lives and how to face the future. They had no need to consult anything or anyone other than God.

Practical Consideration: God’s people should look to Him for guidance. Moses cautioned the people to look to God alone for guidance for daily living and hope for the future. They were not to consult other sources (of an occult nature) for guidance. In like manner, we are not to consult horoscopes, 1-800 numbers, anything or anyone other than God and His word for guidance in understanding His will.

Note: Deuteronomy begins with the Israelites encamped on the plains of Moab east of the Jordan River. The Israelites were poised to take possession of the Promised Land and on the verge of exchanging a wandering life for a settled one. Prior to entering the land, Moses cautioned the people against adopting the godless practices of Canaan’s inhabitants and challenged them to remain faithful to God.

One of the most detestable practices of Canaan’s inhabitants was child sacrifice. Child sacrifice was associated with the worship of the god Molech and was practiced by the Ammonites. Some contend that the expression sacrifices his son or daughter in the fire refers to actually throwing children into a raging fire. Others maintain that the children were given up by their parents to serve as temple prostitutes or dedicated to Molech. However, regardless of how the practice was actually carried out, any such practice underscores the fact that the Ammonites did not value the lives of the helpless and the innocent.

The thought of actually sacrificing children to a pagan god, however that was done, is barbaric at best. Yet, what will archaeologists in the future uncover and conclude about our treatment of children? Will they conclude that we simply found more efficient ways than the Ammonites to eliminate children? Is the practice of the Ammonites any less humane than the procedures used today to end a life in the womb or partially out of the birth canal?

18:15-22
The Israelites had no need for the occult mediums of the Canaanites. God promised to send the people another prophet like Moses to help them understand God’s word and will for their lives. Moses was to become the model or standard by which every future prophet was to be measured (18:15, 18 and 34:10). Moses however, spoke of a future prophet that would be like him. The Jews of Jesus day asked John the Baptist if he was that prophet (John 1:21). John replied that he was not the prophet referred to by Moses (John 1:21). Philip referred to Jesus as the prophet of whom Moses spoke (John 1:45). Jesus told the Jews that He was the One spoken of by Moses (John 5:46-47). Peter told the crowd at Pentecost that Jesus was that Prophet spoken of by Moses (Acts 3:22-23). Moses also warned that false prophets were to be put to death (18:20). He proposed two tests to determine whether a prophet was speaking on behalf of God (18:21-22). First, the prophet had to speak “in the name of the Lord” (18:22). Second, the prophecy had to come true (18:22).

Practices to Be Avoided — continued

16:21 – 17:7
Once again, Moses reminded the people that they were to avoid idolatry and anything that might tempt them to worship idols or participate in idolatrous practices. They were prohibited from setting up an Asherah (16:21-22) and bringing blemished sacrifices to the Lord (17:1). Idolaters were to be executed (17:2-7) so that the religious stability of the nation might not be threatened.

Laws About True and False Leaders

Deuteronomy 17:8 – 18:22

17:8-13
Moses was concerned about the fair administering of justice in the Promised Land (Deuteronomy 16:18-20). He made provision for judges to be helped when they had a difficult case before them (17:8). Moses instructed the judge dealing with the difficult case to “go up to the place which the Lord your God chooses” (17:8) and appeal to the Levitical priest or judge for help (17:9). Moses instructed the people to strictly abide by the verdict of the higher court (17:10-11). Anyone presumptuously refusing to abide by the decision of the higher court was to be put to death (17:12) and therefore serve as an example to others regarding the danger of refusing to abide by the judicial verdict of the higher court (7:13).

17:14-20
Moses anticipated a time when Israel might want a king over them like the nations around them (17:14). He outlined the attitude and characteristics of one who might be chosen to serve as king.

First, the king was to be chosen by God (14:15).

Second, the king was to be an Israelite (17:15). A foreigner could not serve as king over the Israelites.

Third, the king was to trust in God rather than in horses (17:16). The key to military success was trust in God rather than the amassing of military strength. By trusting in God for victory in battle both the Israelites and their enemies would give God the credit for victory.

Fourth, the king was warned to not multiply wives (17:17). Solomon illustrates the wisdom behind this prohibition and the foolishness of ignoring it: “For it came about when Solomon was old, his wives turned his heart away after other gods; and his heart was not wholly devoted to the Lord his God, as the heart of David his father had been” (1 Kings 11:4). Kings often married foreign women to build strong political and military alliances. A king whose trust was in God, however, would have no need to trust in alliances.

Fifth, a king was to be a servant and not use his position to amass wealth (17:17).

Sixth, the king was to study and abide by the word of God (17:18-20). He was to write the words of Deuteronomy with his own hand and read and live by them.

Practical Consideration: Leaders must live and lead according to God’s instructions. Moses instructed that kings over Israel were to have a high regard for God’s word. They were to make a personal copy of God’s word (Deuteronomy 17:18) and read it daily “that he may learn to fear the Lord his God” (Deuteronomy 17:19). Psalm 119:18 states, “Establish Thy word to Thy servant, As that which produces reverence for Thee.” How different the history of Israel might have been had the nation’s leaders actually followed this instruction. Abraham Lincoln said concerning the Bible, “This great book … is the best gift God has given to man … But for it we could not know right from wrong.”

Donald F. Ackland
Studies in Deuteronomy
Convention Press, Nashville, Tennessee, 1964

Irving L. Jensen
Studies in Numbers and Deuteronomy
Moody Press, Chicago, 1967

John C. Maxwell
The Communicator’s Commentary, Volume 5: Deuteronomy
Word Books, Publisher, Waco, Texas, 1987

Samuel J. Schultz
Deuteronomy: The Gospel of Love
Moody Press, Chicago, 1971

John D. W. Watts
The Broadman Bible Commentary, Volume 2: Deuteronomy
Broadman Press, Nashville, Tennessee, 1970

James Wolfendale
Homiletical Commentary on the Book of Deuteronomy
Funk & Wagnalls Company, New York and London

Three Festivals of Israel

Deuteronomy 16:1-17

16:1-8
Moses reviewed, in summary fashion, the three festivals that the Israelites were to observe throughout the year. The first of these was the Passover, which was to be observed in “the month of Abib,” which means “green ears” (which approximates our month of April). This festival commemorated the major event in the life of Israel, their deliverance from Egyptian bondage. It served as an annual reminder of their slavery in and deliverance from Egypt. It was to be celebrated in the place of God’s choosing (16:6). They were to abstain from eating leavened bread (16:3). Instead, they were to eat “unleavened bread, the bread of affliction” to commemorate their hasty departure from Egypt (16:3). They were also to completely consume their meat during each night of the festival (16:4), cooking the meat in the vicinity of the sanctuary (16:5-7). The observance was to conclude with “a solemn assembly to the Lord your God” (16:8).

16:9-12
The Feast of Weeks was an observance that celebrated God’s provision of the harvest. This one-day festival was also known as … Feast of Harvest in Exodus 23:16 … the “day of first-fruits” in Numbers 28:26 … and Pentecost (based on the Septuagint’s translation of “fifty days” in Leviticus 23:16). Notice the instructions of Moses in these verses …

First, “you shall count … ” (16:9). The people were to count seven weeks from the time their harvest began in March or April.

Second, “you shall celebrate … ” (16:10). The feast was to be celebrated with the giving of a freewill offering.

Third, “you shall rejoice … ” (16:11). The people were to rejoice “before the Lord your God.” C.H. Spurgeon said, “When we bless God for mercies we prolong them, and when we bless Him for miseries we usually end them. Praise is the honey of life, which a devout heart sucks from every bloom of providence and grace. We may as well be dead as be without praise; it is the crown of life.”

Fourth, “you shall remember … ” (16:12). God never wanted for the Israelites to forget their obligation to Him.

16:13-17
The Feast of Booths was to be observed in commemoration of the wilderness wanderings when the Israelites lived in booths (Leviticus 23:42-43). It was celebrated after the fall harvest (Leviticus 23:39). The Israelites were to construct booths (Leviticus 23:40) and live in them for a week (Leviticus 23:39).

The Principle of Justice

Deuteronomy 16:18-20

16:18-20
The administration of justice in the new land was a matter of concern for Moses. He gave instructions for the appointment of “judges and officers in all your towns” (16:18). Moses declared that these judges and officers were required to “judge the people with righteous judgment” (16:18). In order to do this they would have to do at least four things. Each of these point to the fact that judges were to be men of integrity.

First, “you shall not distort justice” (16:19).

Second, “you shall not be partial” (16:19).

Third, “you shall not take a bribe” (16:19).

Fourth, “Justice, and only justice, you shall pursue” (16:20).

Practices to Be Avoided

Deuteronomy 16:21 – 17:7

16:21 – 17:7
Once again, Moses reminded the people that they were to avoid idolatry and anything that might tempt them to worship idols or participate in idolatrous practices. They were prohibited from setting up an Asherah (16:21-22) and bringing blemished sacrifices to the Lord (17:1). Idolaters were to be executed (17:2-7) so that the religious stability of the nation might not be threatened.

15:1-6

Deuteronomy 15 contains laws relating to the sabbatic year. This important year is mentioned elsewhere in Scripture.

First, Exodus 23:10-11 emphasizes the importance of allowing the land to lay fallow every seventh year for the sake of the needy and the animals.

Second, Leviticus 25:1-7 emphasizes the importance of allowing the land to rest from production every seventh year.

Third, Deuteronomy 15:1-6 expresses a humanitarian concern for various classes of needy people. According to these instructions, the Israelites were not to press those in debt to them to pay their debts in a sabbatic year. Maxwell notes, “There is much debate over whether a debt was to be terminated permanently or suspended for one year, meaning the repayment could not be demanded during the course of the seventh year. The latter alternative seems probable. At the end of seven years all debts that had been contracted were again extended for another year. The total debts were forgiven in the year of jubilee (every fiftieth year).”

15:7-11
These verses address the subject of loaning to the poor. Notice the use of the words “heart” and “hand” in these verses. Matthew Henry said, “If the hand is shut it is a sign that the heart is hardened.” Notice the following points in these verses.

First, those with wealth should not close their hearts to assisting those in need (15:7-8).

Second, those with wealth should not look for ways to avoid assisting those in need (15:9). Moses illustrated this point by referring to a case in which a man with means might consider withholding help from a man in need just prior to the sabbatic year.

Third, those with wealth should joyfully and generously assist those in need and so experience God’s blessings (15:10).

Fourth, those in need will always “be in the land” (15:11). Jesus said, “For the poor you have with you always … ” (Matthew 26:11). See also Jesus’ comments in Matthew 25:31-46 regarding the importance of how we treat those in need.

Practical Consideration: Those who have should assist those who have not. As Moses instructed the people in the laws that were to govern their lives in the Promised Land, he did not neglect to mention the poor and needy. He instructed those who were blessed with means to assist those suffering misfortune. Billy Graham is quoted as having said, “if every church in America would take care of eight welfare families the problem would be eliminated immediately.”

15:12-18
These verses address the treatment of servants who are members of the covenant community. Notice the following points in these verses.

First, a servant was to serve six years and released on the seventh or sabbatic year (15:12).

Second, the needs of the servant were to be generously provided by the master (15:13-14). The motivation for such generous treatment was three-fold. First, because of the generous treatment and provision of the Lord for the master (15:14b). Second, because the master’s forefathers were once slaves in Egypt (15:15). Third, because the master had received his “money’s worth” from the servant (15:18).

Third, provision was made for a servant to remain with his master in the sabbatic year. If the servant loved his master and his master’s family and personally chose to remain, the master was to pierce the servant’s ear with an awl. This was to serve as a visual indicator of the servant’s personal commitment to remain with and continue in the service of his master (15:16-17 and see also Exodus 21:5-6).

Consecration of the First Born

Deuteronomy 15:19-23

15:19-23
These verses address the sacrifice of firstborn animals. They specify the conditions placed on the use of such animals as sacrifices. The theme of these verses is the importance of consecrating only the best to God. He deserves first-place in every aspect of our lives.

Idolatry Not to Be Tolerated — continued

14:1-2
God’s people were a holy people and were expected to act accordingly. They were to live their lives distinctively different from their heathen neighbors. As a holy people they were not to participate in any of the practices of their heathen neighbors. Moses cited as an example a superstitious heathen practice that involved shaving away a portion of hair as a symbol of mourning a death.

Laws About Food

Deuteronomy 14:3-21

14:3-21
These verses contain a specific listing of clean and unclean animals. The Israelites were prohibited from eating any of the unclean animals. Some believe that health was the underlying reason behind the prohibition. The problem with the health or hygiene argument is that God still permitted the Israelites to give or sell unclean food to aliens (see for example verse 21). In addition, John Maxwell points out, “No hygienic reasons are given in the Old Testament texts as motives for observing the law of the clean and the unclean; nowhere does the Old Testament state that the Israelites considered the unclean animals dangerous to their health.” Maxwell argues that because God’s people were to be distinctive in every area of life, the dietary laws helped fulfill this purpose. What was permissible for others to eat was not permissible for the Israelites to eat. The dietary laws served to remind Israel of her status before God. In addition, Maxwell notes that “the food laws provided an opportunity to exercise faith and obedience … God had assured them that this is His will concerning their dietary habits, and whether the regulations seemed reasonable or not, they were to obey … From a human standpoint, God’s rules made no sense. Therefore, according to this explanation, this was a higher test of obedience.”

Laws About Tithes and Release

Deuteronomy 14:22 – 15:18

14:22-29
John Maxwell suggests that these verses contain seven truths about tithing which are still valid today.

First, “tithing is to be a regular exercise (14:22).” Tithing would serve as a reminder to the people that their prosperity was the result of God’s provision.

Second, “tithing is a spiritual exercise (14:23).” The Israelites were to take the tithe and “eat in the presence of the Lord.” By placing our tithes before the Lord we are humbly reminded of His blessings. An unwillingness to tithe is the result of a deeper problem: God does not have us. “God wants us before He wants the tithe,” comments Maxwell.

Third, “tithing is a learning exercise (14:23).” By bringing their tithes the people would “learn to fear the Lord your God always.”

Fourth, “tithing is a flexible exercise (14:24-26).” God made provision for how those who lived too great a distance from the place of worship were to bring their tithes. Maxwell notes, “This practice was the reason for the money-changers’ presence in the temple during the time of Jesus (John 2:14-16).”

Fifth, “tithing is to be a joyful exercise (14:26).”

Sixth, “tithing is a beneficent exercise (14:27-29a).”

Seventh, “tithing is a blessed exercise (14:29b).”

Practical Consideration: Giving to God should remind us of what He has given to us. God gave the Israelites specific instructions concerning the giving of their tithes. These instructions were designed to remind the Israelites of the gracious provision of God. Every time we give to God it should serve as a reminder that He has first given to us. Tithing should remind us of God’s presence and provision for our needs. God is not unreasonable in what He asks of us.

Idolatry Not to Be Tolerated — continued

13:1-18
Chapter 12 dealt with places that might tempt Israel to serve other gods. Chapter 13 deals with people who might tempt Israel to follow after other gods. The enemies in chapter 12 were the Canaanites. The enemies in chapter 13 are trusted people within the congregation of Israel. Chapter 13 deals with the matter of resisting enticement to apostasy. The central thrust of the chapter is to impress upon the people the importance of being totally committed to the Lord. Moses used three cases to illustrate the possible ways the people might be enticed to follow and worship other gods. Each case contains the phrase “Let us go after other gods … ” (13:2, 6, 13).

First, Moses cautioned the people against being seduced to apostasy by a prophet or a dreamer of dreams (13:1-5). Moses said that even if such a prophet authenticated his ministry by the performance of miracles (13:2), they should not allow such a one to entice them to follow after and serve other gods (13:3). Instead, they should remain faithful to the Lord (13:4) and put the prophet to death and so purge the evil from among them (13:5). Any prophet who suggests that the people follow after other gods is a false prophet. The content of a prophet’s message will betray its origin. A true prophet would never tempt the people to violate the first (5:7) and greatest commandment (6:5).

Second, Moses tightened the circle by cautioning the people against being seduced to apostasy by a member of their own family or by a close and cherished friend (13:6-11). James Wolfendale comments, “Strongest temptations are often from nearest friends.” Moses knew and understood the powerful influence of relatives and friends. In a survey of ten thousand people who were asked the question, “What was responsible for your coming to the church?” 79% responded that they came to church because of the influence of a friend or relative. Even in cases where the seducer was a relative or friend, he or she was to be decisively dealt with. The tempter was to be put to death by stoning (13:9-10). Such decisive punishment would serve as an example to others against committing the same crime (13:11).

Third, Moses told the people that the enticement to apostasy was to be dealt with even if it meant the destruction of an entire city (13:12-18). He told the people that if it was heard (13:12-14) and confirmed (13:14) that the inhabitants of a city were involved in enticing others to follow after other gods, the entire city and everything in it was to be destroyed and burned (13:15-17). Samuel J. Shultz notes regarding the total destruction of such a city and the prohibition against confiscating any property, “This prevented the Israelites from such action for the purpose of material gain.” Verse 16 states that such a city was to “be a ruin forever. It shall never be rebuilt.” Certainly such a sight would serve as a visual and constant reminder of the high price of idolatry to both present and future generations.

Practical Consideration: We must take evil seriously. Moses understood the danger the Israelites would face both from without and within the congregation. He cautioned the people to not be led astray by religious people, friends and family, or people in the community. He outlined the serious steps to be followed in order to hold accountable those individuals guilty of leading others astray. The consequences of leading others astray illustrate the fact that Moses took evil seriously. We too, must take evil seriously. We must be willing to remove from our lives anything that seeks to destroy our love and devotion to God. John Maxwell comments, “Anything within our lives that turns us away from serving God must be dealt with quickly and severely.”

Worship in an Approved Place

Deuteronomy 12:1-28

12:1-12
Chapters 12 through 26 of Deuteronomy contain a long series of laws that were given to govern life in the Promised Land. Deuteronomy 12:1 states that the Israelites were to carefully (“which you shall carefully observe”) and continually (“as long as you live on the earth”) observe God’s laws. The discussion of the law begins with the law related to worship. This is an important place to begin a discussion of the law. A people who are not properly related to their God will not be concerned about observing other aspects of the law. Notice the following considerations concerning worship in the Promised Land.

First, the Israelites were to utterly destroy the idolatrous shrines of the Canaanites (12:2-3). The Canaanites were an idolatrous people (see also Deuteronomy 7:1-5) who sacrificed their sons and daughters to their gods (12:31). The reason for destroying the pagan shrines was to remove the temptation to use/adopt both the places and practices of pagan worship (12:29-31).

Practical Consideration: We must hate what God hates. We should love the things that God loves. We should, however, also hate the things God hates. When we love things that God hates, we will have problems in our lives. When we hate things that God loves, we will also have problems in our lives. James wrote, “You adulteresses, do you not know that friendship with the world is hostility toward God? Therefore whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God” (James 4:4).

Practical Consideration: We should guard against the things that distract us from worship and in worship. The Israelites were instructed to remove the idolatrous influences of the Canaanites lest they be distracted in their worship. God wanted the undivided attention and loyalty of His people in worship. We too, should guard against anything that keeps us from participating in worship or distracts us while we are involved in worship. We should give God our undivided attention in worship.

Second, the Israelites were to worship at “the place … the Lord your God chooses,” a phrase that appears six times in chapter 12 (verses 5, 11, 14, 18, 21, 26) and a total of twenty-one times in chapters 12 through 17. Notice the following considerations regarding the place of worship.

• Deuteronomy 12:5 – “there you shall come.” The Israelites were to worship God in the place of His choosing in a manner different than that of Canaan’s inhabitants (12:4, 31). The Israelites were to come to the place where God chose “to establish His name” (12:5) or make “His name to dwell” (12:11). Some scholars comment that the phrase is used as an affirmation of ownership while others feel it refers to the place where God manifests His presence.

• Deuteronomy 12:11 – “there you shall bring.”

• Deuteronomy 12:14 – “there you shall offer.”

• Deuteronomy 12:14 – “there you shall do.”

Third, the Israelites were to do several things at the place of worship.

• They were to bring their offerings to the Lord (12:6, 11, 13-14, 17, 26-27).

• They were to rejoice before the Lord (12:7, 12, 18). Their worship was to be characterized by joy.

• They were to obey the Lord (12:28, 32).

12:13-28
Moses instructed the people to offer sacrifices at “the place which the Lord chooses” (12:14). The people were at liberty, however, to slaughter animals for food at any place (12:15), but were prohibited from eating the blood of those animals (12:16). Tithes were to be brought to the sanctuary (12:6-7 and 17-18). The people were reminded and admonished not to forget or neglect the Levite (12:19) who had “no portion or inheritance” (12:12). Verses 13-19 are repeated, reemphasized, and expanded in verses 20-28. Regarding the repetition found in this chapter, John Maxwell comments, “The repetition in this chapter can become a bit tedious. But remember that Deuteronomy was presented to Israel in sermonic form. Normally, repetition is important in the learning process, but it is doubly important in oral presentation, as the audience does not have the privilege of regarding something missed the first time.”

Idolatry Not to Be Tolerated

Deuteronomy 12:29-14:2

12:29-32
Moses cautioned the people to avoid all contact with the Canaanite religious system. They were to avoid curiosity about the Canaanite system of worship lest they become ensnared in it (12:30). The idolatrous practices of the Canaanites, which included the sacrifice of children, were an abomination in the sight of God (12:31).

Remembering the Greatness of the Lord

Deuteronomy 11:1-9

 11:1-9
Moses again emphasized the relationship between love for God and obedience to God (11:1). Those who love God should demonstrate their love in obedience to God. John Maxwell comments, “The ultimate test of an Israelite’s love for God was his obedience to God (John 14:15).” Moses reminded the Israelites of the greatness of God by quickly reviewing God’s acts in the past.

First, Moses reminded the people of how God demonstrated His greatness in Egypt (11:2-3). Notice that Moses gives God all the credit for the mighty things that happened with the repeated use of the personal pronoun “He.”

Second, Moses reminded the people of how God demonstrated His greatness in the Exodus by completely destroying the pursuing Egyptian army (11:4).

Third, Moses reminded the people of how God demonstrated His greatness in the wilderness (11:5-8). The wilderness experience became a school in which the people were taught the importance of trusting God for all their needs (see Deuteronomy 8:2-5). God demonstrated His providential care for His people in the wilderness (11:5). God also demonstrated His displeasure with their rebellion in the wilderness (11:6 and read also Numbers 16 for further information on Korah’s rebellion and the role played by Dathan and Abiram).

Practical Consideration: God’s footprints are in the shape of greatness. Wherever God walks and works He leaves imprints of His greatness. An examination of God’s activity in our lives will reveal His greatness, His love and concern, and His providential care. We should make the time to take written photographs of God’s activity in our lives by recording His activity in a journal.

Moses prefaced this brief review by stating, “I am not speaking with your sons who have not known and who have not seen” (11:2) and ended by stating, “but your own eyes have seen all the great work of the Lord which He did” (11:7). Those who have seen and experienced the things which the Lord has done have a responsibility to share what they have learned with those who do not know and who have not seen. James Wolfendale notes, “Duty must be measured by privilege. The lessons of our life must be taught to others, and embodied in our character and conduct. If unfaithful and indifferent how great will be our punishment.”

Deuteronomy 11:8 and 9 outline the practical benefits of obedience to God.

First, power … “so that you may be strong” (11:8). We become spiritually strong through obedience to God.

Second, possession … “and go in and possess the land” (11:8). “Strength derived from obedience inspires with courage to gain new dominions. Those strong in the Lord are resistless, and drive before them nations greater and mightier than they” (James Wolfendale).

Third, prolonged life … “so that you may prolong your days on the land” (11:9).

Notice also that these verses emphasize that obedience, and not military skill, is the key to success in the land.

Obedience Results in a Bountiful Land

Deuteronomy 11:10-17 

11:10-17
Moses informed the people that the land of Canaan was not like the land of Egypt. Moses told the people that the agricultural potential of Canaan was far greater than anything they had known in Egypt (11:10-12). He told the people that they could depend on God to send rain from heaven for their crops and cattle (11:14-15) as long as they remained obedient to Him and served Him (11:13). He cautioned them to watch themselves lest they be led spiritually astray and serve and worship other gods (11:16) thus incurring the wrath of God (11:17). God would not tolerate a divided loyalty from His people. Following after other gods would shut the rains from heaven and cause the people to quickly perish from the land (11:17).

Teach These Words to Your Children

Deuteronomy 11:18-25 

11:18-21
These verses are similar to Deuteronomy 6:6-9 (refer to comments on page 16). They reemphasize the importance of comprehensively communicating the truths of God’s word to the next generation. Parents cannot effectively communicate the importance and truths of God’s word to the next generation apart from spending personal time with their children. Someone has noted that children spell love “T – i – m – e.” Moses urged parents to communicate with their children …

• Personally: The communication of God’s word must begin with the communicator. “You shall therefore impress these words of mine on your heart and on your soul … ” (11:18 and see also Deuteronomy 6:6). You cannot teach others what you do not know, nor can you convince others of the importance of what you do not observe.

• Privately: “talking of them when you sit in your house” (11:19). Parents should strive to create an atmosphere in the home that fosters open communication and questions about God and spiritual matters.

• Publicly: “and when you walk along the road” (11:19). Jesus taught many valuable lessons to His disciples while they walked along the road.

• Persistently: “and when you lie down and when you rise up” (11:19). Parents should verbally and non-verbally communicate the importance of loving and obeying God both day and night.

• Visually: “and you shall bind them as a sign on your hand … forehead” (1:18), “and you shall write them … ” (11:20). John Maxwell comments, “Experts in the field of communication say that our learning is 89 percent visual, 10 percent auditory, and 1 percent through other senses.”

Practical Consideration: We should remind ourselves to remember. John D.W. Watts’s comments, “Any people who want to ‘remember’ can find the means to be reminded. That which is closest to their motives, to their hearts in our sense of that word, will show itself in every phase of life.” Moses urged the people to employ various means to remember and communicate the importance of God’s word.

11:22-25
Moses reminded the people that the successful conquest of the land was not dependent on their military superiority but on their careful observance of God’s commandments (11:22-23). James Wolfendale comments, “Reliance in God is better than valiant soldiers and mighty ships.” If the Israelites were careful to observe God’s commandments, God promised to enlarge their boundaries in the land (11:24 and see also Joshua 1:3) and grant them success in battle (11:25). Isaiah 60:12 emphasizes the importance of nations relying upon God: “For the nation and the kingdom which will not serve you will perish, and the nations will be utterly ruined.”

The Choice Before Israel

Deuteronomy 11:26-32

11:26-32
Moses called upon the people to make a choice. Notice the following things concerning the choice set before Israel:

First, it was a plain choice — “I am setting before you … ” (11:26). There was sufficient information available for the people to make an intelligent choice. Moses had not kept anything from the people. He spoke openly and plainly with them about God’s requirements. The people knew what God expected of them.

Second it was an urgent choice — “today … ” (11:26). The people had to decide whether or not they were going to obey and be loyal to God alone. This was not a decision they could put off to some future day. Moses called upon the people to choose to follow God “today.” Moses made no allowance for indecision. Joshua would later say to the people, “choose for yourselves today whom you will serve” (Joshua 24:15). Someone noted: “Defer not till tomorrow to be wise / Tomorrow’s sun to thee may never rise.”

Third, it was a serious choice — “a blessing and a curse” (11:26). Their choice would have an impact on them … either a blessing or a curse. The blessing was contingent upon obedience and complete loyalty to God (11:27) and the curse was the consequence of disobedience and “following other gods” (11:28). John Maxwell notes, “Choices may be made in a moment, but the fruit of those choices can be endless.”

Fourth, it was an inescapable choice — “and you shall be careful to do all the statutes and the judgments which I am setting before you today” (11:32).

Practical Consideration: Indecision is debilitating. The Israelites were at a crossroads. They were at the intersection between their past and their future. Moses called upon the people to choose a course of action that would determine the kind of future they would have. Indecision was not an option. Moses did not give the people the luxury of not deciding. Instead, he impressed upon them the urgency of making the right choice. Indecision keeps people from confidently pressing on toward the realization of God’s richest blessings. Indecision debilitates people. John Maxwell comments, “What we do at the major crossroads of life not only reveals who we are but has a great deal to do with who we will become.”

Moses Receives the Commandments Again

Deuteronomy 10:1-11

10:1-5
Moses summarized the events surrounding the rewriting of the Ten Commandments. This event is recorded in fuller detail in Exodus 34. This recounting was intended to remind the people that God graciously renewed the covenant with them even though they were a stiff-necked and rebellious people. The things written on the second set of stone tablets were “the words that were on the former tablets” shattered by Moses (10:2). According to God’s instructions (10:1), Moses constructed an ark of wood (10:3) in which He placed the placed the new tablets inscribed with the Ten Commandments (10:4-5).

10:6-9
After the death of Aaron, Eleazar his son served as priest in his place (10:6) and the tribe of Levi was set apart for priestly service (10:8). The tribe of Levi was assigned three functions (10:8): First, they were assigned the task of carrying the ark of the covenant, which housed the covenant documents. The Levites were responsible for the care of the ark. Second, they were “to stand before the Lord to serve Him.” John D.W. Watts notes that this “probably included duties of sacrifice as well as serving as mediators of divine oracles. Third, they were to bless in the name of the Lord. In addition, the tribe of Levi was not to have an inheritance in the Promised Land (10:9). The Lord was to be the inheritance of the tribe of Levi (10:9). They were “privileged to receive their living from offerings brought to the Lord” (Watts).

10:10-11
These verses summarize the results of Moses’ intercession on behalf of Israel. Had it not been for the intercession of Moses the Israelites would not be on the banks of the Jordan, poised to enter the Promised Land.

The Lord’s Requirements

Deuteronomy 10:12-22

10:12-13
An effective relationship is based, in large measure, on a proper understanding between individuals. It is important in any relationship that both parties understand what is required or expected from one another. Moses outlined for the Israelites what God required (asked or requested) of them. This understanding was meant to help the Israelites enjoy an effective and meaningful relationship with God and their fellow man. Understanding God’s requirements alone however, was not enough to insure an effective relationship. The Israelites would have to commit themselves to meeting those requirements. (See also Micah 6:8). God’s requirements are as follows:

First, “to fear the Lord your God” (10:12). The fear of the Lord is an inward attitude of respect and reverence for God. The Israelites were to respond to God’s faithfulness with an attitude of reverence and respect.

Second, “to walk in all His ways” (10:12). An inward attitude of reverence and respect for the Lord should manifest itself outwardly in a godly walk.

Third, to “love Him”(10:12). Read Deuteronomy 6:5 and refer to the comments on page 15 of these notes. James Wolfendale comments, “Moses commanded many observances and enforced obedience when required; but love and veneration must be voluntary.”

Fourth, “to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul” (10:12). Service is a demonstration of our love for God. John D.W. Watts notes that the word “serve” refers to acts of worship. James Wolfendale comments, “We may suspect our religion, suspect our interest in Christ, if we have no delight in His service, no love for His person. … Our service must be spiritual; our obedience free and hearty; and our love fervent and sincere.”

Fifth, “to keep the Lord’s commandments and His statutes” (10:13). Obedience is a demonstration of our love for God. 1 John 5:3 states, “For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments; and His commandments are not burdensome.” One commentator notes that the word “keep signifies to keep diligently, carefully, faithfully; as watchmen keep the city, soldiers their garrisons, or jailors their prisoners.”

Practical Consideration: What God demands is what thankful hearts should gladly give. Someone has rightly observed, “What God demands is what thankful hearts should give.” There is nothing unreasonable about what God requires of His people, especially in light of His constant demonstrations of love and mercy. Hearts filled with gratitude to God should overflow in love and service to Him.

10:14-22
God merits the obedience of His people because of His greatness and because of His love. Moses defined the greatness of God and the love of God in terms the Israelites could understand.

First, God is the creator, owner, and sustainer of the cosmos (10:14), “yet on your fathers did the Lord set His affection to love them” (10:15). The proper response to the love and greatness of God is submission and obedience to His will. This would happen when the people circumcised their hearts (or cut away all hindrances) and ended their stubbornness. Regarding circumcision of the heart, Samuel J. Schultz comments, “All things that might restrict, interfere with, or negate a total devotion to God were to be cut away (circumcised). Nothing should mar this vertical relationship established in the covenant.”

Second, the great and awesome God is concerned about those who are weak, defenseless, hungry, and homeless (10:17-18). James Wolfendale writes, “Though great and terrible, yet He is kind and affectionate towards the helpless and oppressed. The more defenseless the greater the claim upon His compassion.” The proper response to an understanding of the sympathy of God for the weak is to follow His example. The Israelites were commanded to show “love for the alien” because they too, were once aliens in Egypt (10:19). They knew what it was like to be treated harshly and unjustly by personal experience.

Practical Consideration: Past personal trials should make us more sympathetic to others. Our past personal trials should make us more understanding and sympathetic to others. It is only the person who remembers the pain of past trials and hardships that can truly sympathize and respond with a helping hand to others undergoing trials and hardships.

Third, God is personal and powerful. He enabled the seventy persons who went to Egypt to multiply into a nation of people in less than two hundred and fifty years (10:22). God’s faithfulness to His people should inspire them to obey and serve Him willingly and cheerfully.