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Deuteronomy 1

46 verses

TL;DR

Moses reminds Israel of their journey and the covenant to possess Canaan, appoints judges, and warns of their unbelief, promising only Caleb, Joshua, and the next generation will inherit the land.

Summary

In Deuteronomy 1 Moses addresses the Israelites on the eastern side of the Jordan, recalling the Lord’s commands and the victories over Sihon and Og. He instructs them to leave the wilderness, take possession of the promised land, and appoint wise leaders as judges. Moses explains that due to Israel’s lack of faith, the Lord would not allow this generation to enter Canaan; only Caleb, Joshua, and the future children will inherit it. He recounts the Israelites’ rebellion, the Lord’s anger, and the promise of inheritance for the faithful. The chapter concludes with Israel’s refusal to obey and the Lord’s decree that they remain in the wilderness until the next generation enters.

Outline
  1. Moses’ address to Israel and call to take possession of Canaan
  2. Appointment of tribal leaders and judges; instructions for justice
  3. Israel’s rebellion, the Lord’s warning, and the promise of inheritance to Caleb, Joshua, and the next generation
Themes
Faith versus unbeliefLeadership and justiceInheritance and covenant faithfulness
Keywords
MosesIsraellawjudgesCanaanCalebJoshuafaithunbeliefinheritancecovenantcourage
People
MosesSihonOgAbrahamIsaacJacobCalebJoshuaJephunnehthe Israelites
Places
JordanKadesh barneaMount SeirHeshbonBashanAcharRed Sea
Things
the Lawjudgesthe promised landAnakimCaleb’s faithJoshua’s leadership
Key Verses
  • Deuteronomy 1:3: Moses begins his address to Israel.
  • Deuteronomy 1:21: The Lord commands Israel to possess the land.
  • Deuteronomy 1:35: God declares that this generation will not see the land.
  • Deuteronomy 1:38: Promise that Joshua will enter Canaan.
  • Deuteronomy 1:41: Israel’s rebellious response to Moses’ command.
Questions
  • What does Moses emphasize about leadership and justice?
  • How does Israel’s unbelief affect their inheritance?
  • What does the promise to Caleb and Joshua reveal about faith?
  • How does the chapter portray God’s patience and anger?
  • What lessons can be drawn about obedience and faithfulness?
Sentiment

mixed
Moses delivers admonition, yet offers hope for future generations.