Introduction to Deuteronomy
Read Deuteronomy 1:1-5
Today’s Truth
Deuteronomy is the fifth book of the Bible and the final book of the Torah. In the preceding books, Israel had left Egypt and stayed at Mount Sinai for a year, where they entered into a covenant with their God. Despite this amazing start, the Israelites struggled in their journey through the wilderness, and the entire Exodus generation was disqualified from entering into the promised land. Deuteronomy begins with Moses standing in front of the new generation, and his job is to explain the significance of the laws of the Torah. This opening scene helps us understand the design and purpose of the book. It’s a series of speeches from Moses, who calls the next generation of Israel to be faithful to their covenant with God.
Discussion Questions
- Watch the Bible Project Overview of Deuteronomy- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q5QEH9bH8AU
- Based on the overview, what does Deuteronomy mean to you?
- Why is it important to remember and obey?
Application
To listen and obey God will lead to blessing, but to disobey will lead to devastation and exile. Moses knows the people well enough to know they will eventually choose rebellion. Yet even then, Moses looked forward to a future day when God would give Israel a new heart so they could fully love God and live.