Deuteronomy » Living Hope Bible Blog Bible Commentary

Deuteronomy 1

[bible passage="Deuteronomy 1" version="ESV"]

Deuteronomy 1 Commentary

by Brad Boyles

Deuteronomy means “the second giving of the law.” It’s a book about real life. In fact, Deuteronomy is probably one of the least studied and most important books of the Old Testament. Here are some facts about Deuteronomy…

It contains practical revelation from God for how He desires for us to live.
It is an invitation for a relationship with Him.
It establishes an eternal kingdom by which humanity can fellowship with God.
Jesus quotes Deuteronomy more often than any other book of the OT.
Jesus quotes from Deuteronomy when being tempted by Satan which suggests the spiritual power that resides in its words and themes.
Deuteronomy is quoted or alluded to nearly 200 times in the New Testament.

Deuteronomy is also interesting because it is a book that was most likely “revised” after the exile. When God’s people returned from their exile in Persia, it took on the role of a covenant renewal document. This book reveals so much about the character of God. You could write an entire theology just from this one book. Overall, there are nine different names given to God!

The book of Deuteronomy still has relevance today. We function on a daily basis with a low spiritual IQ. Like the Israelites, we are slow learners. Often, there is a promise given to us that we say we believe in but refuse to walk in. Many times, we take “40 years” to accomplish an 11-day task. Though God offers us abundant grace, there is still a responsibility to obey.

The truth of God is that even when we are rebellious, unbelieving grumblers, He does not neglect or forsake us. He knows where we walk, and He finds us on the path we have willingly chosen. He knows where that path leads as well. He will follow us and go with us, offering opportunities to give more of ourselves to Him. He will provide for us, just as He did Israel, with everything necessary for a spiritually prosperous life.

As we study Deuteronomy, reflect on the character of God and what it means for your journey. What is your “Promised Land?” What is your “wilderness?” How is God in His grace walking alongside and revealing His grace to you day by day?

Deuteronomy 2

Deuteronomy 2 – It is a unique time in Israel’s history. Moses continues to lead and teach the people even though *spoiler alert* he will die before making it to the Promised Land. This time of transition …

Deuteronomy 3

Deuteronomy 3 – They told Moses, “We explored the land and found it to be rich and fertile; and here is some of its fruit. 28 But the people who live there are powerful, and their cities …

Deuteronomy 4

Deuteronomy 4 – “No other nation, no matter how great, has a god who is so near when they need him as the LORD our God is to us. He answers us whenever we call for help. …

Deuteronomy 5

Deuteronomy 5 – False teachers love to cherry-pick verses and twist the context to their liking. A perfect example of this is found in Deuteronomy 5:9. ‘You shall not make for yourself an idol, or any likeness …

Deuteronomy 6

[bible passage="Deuteronomy 6" version="ESV"]

Deuteronomy 6 Commentary

by Brad Boyles

Here in Deuteronomy 6, we find the “shema.” The word itself means “hear” or “listen” and begins in verse 4.

“Hear, O Israel! The LORD is our God, the LORD is one! 5 “You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. 6 “These words, which I am commanding you today, shall be on your heart.

Deuteronomy 6:4-6 NASB

However, in the context of Hebrew life, the word meant much more than just listening. It conveyed an urgency to pay attention, kind of like putting an exclamation point at the end of a sentence. It could also mean a response to what you hear. For those who followed our writings through the series of Psalms, you know that many of them began with “Listen!” This is the same word (shema) that we find here in verse 4 of Deuteronomy. So, in this way, the Psalms were crying out to God not only to listen but to act or respond.

Interestingly, we also see shema translated obey, such as this passage of Exodus.

‘Now then, if you will indeed obey My voice and keep My covenant, then you shall be My own possession among all the peoples, for all the earth is Mine; 6 and you shall be to Me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.’ These are the words that you shall speak to the sons of Israel.”

Exodus 19:5-6 NASB

God tells Israel that if they will shema shema (indeed obey) His voice and keep His covenant, then they will be His treasured possession. The double shema is used for emphasis.

The point of all this is that God views listening, hearing and obeying through the same lens! In many ways, hearing God’s voice and keeping the covenant are the same thing. In fact, within the Hebrew language, there is not a separate word for “obey.” Shema means “I hear what you say and I will do it.”

When you consider how many Christians today give God lip service, this is a fascinating discovery. Though we see listening and obeying as two different choices, the people of Israel would have viewed them as two sides of the same coin. To them, it would have been absolutely foolish to call yourself a follower of God but not live out His commandments.

This is why the prophets and Jesus Himself would say (to the Hebrew followers), “He who has ears, listen to what the Spirit is saying.” Obviously, Jesus doesn’t just mean we should listen but also take the words to heart and act upon them. Once you hear the truth, you are accountable to it. If you choose not to obey, you probably weren’t really listening in the first place, right?

So, ask yourself, are you hearing what the Lord is speaking to you through His Word? Do you only agree with the truth you are reading, or do you act upon it? Consider how ridiculous it would have been in the ancient world to hear and comprehend what God is speaking but never actually do anything about it. The same is true for us today. This is why the Christian church is full of hypocrites.

We have separated hearing from obedience and allowed ourselves to be deceived by focusing only on head knowledge. God’s desire is that you experience the fullness of His truth by allowing it to manifest a heart change within. If we say that we love the Lord will all our heart, all our soul, and all our might, do our actions fall in line with that statement?

Deuteronomy 7

[bible passage="Deuteronomy 7" version="ESV"]

Deuteronomy 7 Commentary

by Brad Boyles

What is your motivation for obedience?

Do this because you belong to the LORD your God. From all the peoples on earth he chose you to be his own special people. 7 “The LORD did not love you and choose you because you outnumbered other peoples; you were the smallest nation on earth. 8 But the LORD loved you and wanted to keep the promise that he made to your ancestors. That is why he saved you by his great might and set you free from slavery to the king of Egypt.

Deuteronomy 7:6-8 GNB

Have you ever considered that Israel was special in God’s sight before they were pure in conduct? They were first called to be set apart as a chosen people. It wasn’t based on anything they did. In fact, they were the smallest nation on Earth. The Lord demonstrated His love for them by keeping the promise He made long ago to their ancestors. Why did He save them again? Because they were good? Because they were mighty? No. Very simply, because He loved them.

They were loved before they were holy. They were saved before they obeyed. The smallest nation on Earth was adopted by a mighty and sacred Father.

The same is true for you.

If you know Jesus, then He set you apart. He chased you down and found you. He relentlessly pursued you in the dark valleys of your rebellion. He walked with you through the pigpen of your sin. He was steady and unrelenting in His love for you. He saved you and made you holy in standing before you were holy in behavior. Letting that thought sink in is simply astounding.

What is your motivation for obedience?

Do you obey because you’re supposed to? …because you were told to? Do you obey because you want God to be proud of you? Do you obey because others told you it would be best? Do you obey so you can be productive and effective? Do you obey because it just makes you feel good inside?

Or, do you obey because you are unconditionally loved?

It’s an extremely important question to think about. If we are not experiencing a love relationship with Jesus and filling the engine of our life with that fuel, we really don’t get it. It is much easier to obey when you know you are loved. You ARE loved. You don’t have to go back to your sin. You don’t have to walk in shame and disappointment. No matter how far you tried to run away from God, His love was still there. His love is still here. It’s incomprehensible.

Some will ask, how can God love me? The question itself reflects an attitude that your behavior can somehow derail God’s love for you. It can’t. It’s a conditional question directed at an unconditional Savior who has already demonstrated His response to human rebellion. He died for you, raising to life to conquer your sin and your death.

So, I ask one last time… what is your motivation for obedience?

Deuteronomy 8

[bible passage="Deuteronomy 8" version="ESV"]

Deuteronomy 8 Commentary

by Brad Boyles

Remember that the LORD your God corrects and punishes you just as parents discipline their children. 6 So then, do as the LORD has commanded you: live according to his laws and obey him.

Deuteronomy 8:5-6 GNB

We find this same theme in the NT…

Have you forgotten the encouraging words which God speaks to you as his children? “My child, pay attention when the Lord corrects you, and do not be discouraged when he rebukes you. 6 Because the Lord corrects everyone he loves, and punishes everyone he accepts as a child.”

Hebrews 12:5-6 GNB

As a father myself, it is more important that my kids are full of discernment and perseverance than comfort and happiness. This doesn’t mean I don’t want them to be happy. It means that my desire for them is to become well-rounded and strong in the Lord. If I allow them to do whatever they want, I have not loved them. I’ve actually set them up to fail. Though disciplining a child is one of the most difficult aspects to parenting, it’s absolutely necessary.

Consider what a lack of discipline leads to. Entitlement. Whining. Disrespect. These are qualities the Israelites were known for in the chapters leading up to Deuteronomy.

When we are punished, it seems to us at the time something to make us sad, not glad. Later, however, those who have been disciplined by such punishment reap the peaceful reward of a righteous life.

Hebrews 12:11 GNB

It could be said that those who lack discipline also lack holiness and peace. They have not been taught perseverance so every hurdle in life leads to anxiety and worry. They have not understood responsibility so there is no pursuit of God. Rejecting discipline produces two other undesirable results. First, it does not strengthen us or produce resiliency. Second, we are forced to see our struggles as hurdles that we have to overcome in our own strength rather than snags that God will lead us through. It’s a terrible place to be.

I love that the Hebrews passage encourages the believer to pay attention. Often, when we are being disciplined we resist it and try and find a way out. This passage encourages us to look deeper into our struggles to find out how God is working within. When we seek Him in our struggles, we will see God move in a completely different way than ever before. We will find peace when it makes no sense. We will find purpose when we want to give up. We will find that He has never left our side and is continuing to draw us forward.

Where are you currently resisting the discipline of your loving Father?

Deuteronomy 9

[bible passage="Deuteronomy 9" version="ESV"]

Deuteronomy 9 Commentary

by Brad Boyles

Today know this: GOD, your God, is crossing the river ahead of you—he’s a consuming fire. He will destroy the nations, he will put them under your power. You will dispossess them and very quickly wipe them out, just as GOD promised you would.

Deuteronomy 9:3 MSG

It’s easy to read this verse and get puffed up. The message is clear. God will go before me and give me victory. He will lead me to wipe out my enemies just as He promised. It will be done because of my faithfulness to Him. Not so fast, my friend! I know I sound like a broken record, but we must study the context of this entire chapter.

But when GOD pushes them out ahead of you, don’t start thinking to yourselves, “It’s because of all the good I’ve done that GOD has brought me in here to dispossess these nations.” Actually it’s because of all the evil these nations have done. 5 No, it’s nothing good that you’ve done, no record for decency that you’ve built up, that got you here; it’s because of the vile wickedness of these nations that GOD, your God, is dispossessing them before you so that he can keep his promised word to your ancestors, to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

Deuteronomy 9:4-5 MSG

When God created Adam and Eve, everything was fine until they decided they could be self-sufficient. When Saul became king over Israel, he started out well until he decided to take matters into his own hands. The same is true for Samson, Judas, Ananias, and Sapphira. They were tricked by a desire and they acted upon it believing that their decision was better than God’s truth. It was all about them.

True wisdom is revealed when we posture ourselves to be dependent on the Lord in everything. The Israelites didn’t deserve the land they were about to take. Far from it. But, by faith, they believed God when He told them to take it and they walked out that promise by walking into a battle they had no chance of winning. By human standards, their victory was impossible. This is why their dependence on God was so important. They couldn’t do it without Him.

We must remember that when we read about our own victory in Scripture, it is only because Jesus has accomplished that victory. It is nothing we have done and nothing we can earn. The spiritual power given to believers is only possible through Jesus. The ability to resist sin is only available through Jesus. The joy and peace that overwhelm us in the most troubling times can only come from Jesus. We are not self-sufficient. We were created for worship. Depend on Him and walk in the richness of that relationship.

Deuteronomy 10

Deuteronomy 10 – “Now, people of Israel, listen to what the LORD your God demands of you: Worship the LORD and do all that he commands. Love him, serve him with all your heart, 13 and obey …

Deuteronomy 11

Deuteronomy 11 – Remember. Teach. Obey. This is the instruction given to those who were responsible for raising the next generation. Remember today what you have learned about the LORD through your experiences with him. It was …

Deuteronomy 12

Deuteronomy 12 – What separated the people of God from the pagans around them was their total allegiance to the One True God. He gave them commands to follow which centered around every facet of life. They …

Deuteronomy 13

Deuteronomy 13 – When did self-appointed titles become a “thing” in the church? When did “a word” become more important than action? When did the thoughts inside people’s heads become full-blown prophecies directly from the mouth of …

Deuteronomy 14

[bible passage="Deuteronomy 14" version="ESV"]

Deuteronomy 14 Commentary

by Brad Boyles

Holiness and practicality are two thoughts that are sometimes difficult to reconcile. Why did God not allow certain animals to be eaten? Why did the people have to tithe from their agriculture? The laws put into place were put there in order to produce a holy nation. God was setting them apart from the pagan nations around them. The word “holy” actually means “to be separate” or “to be distinct.” This is true for God’s people today as well. We are called to be different from the world around us.

Interestingly, both of these topics (food and tithing) are addressed in the NT and clarified for believers. This is because God’s heart stayed the same but, through Jesus, the law was completely fulfilled. Holiness comes, not through the law, but through faith in Christ and the continual work of the Holy Spirit. Therefore, even though there is freedom from the law, the standard of holiness has not changed. Actually, in many ways, it has been raised to a higher standard.

Some people’s faith allows them to eat anything, but the person who is weak in the faith eats only vegetables. 3 The person who will eat anything is not to despise the one who doesn’t; while the one who eats only vegetables is not to pass judgment on the one who will eat anything; for God has accepted that person.

Romans 14:2-3 GNB

In other words, when Jesus died on the cross, He satisfied the law. He accomplished what we couldn’t accomplish and then invited us to follow Him. We are free from bondage and able to live in that freedom through the power of the Holy Spirit. Since the Holy Spirit has taken up residence in believers today, we are capable of making decisions based on that conviction.

This is also true for tithing. As Hank has written, it comes down to a heart issue. Either you believe that your possessions and your money are God’s and are compelled to give freely back to Him, or, you don’t. It’s really as simple as that.

It is important to express our “set-apartness” with God in ways that also unify the body. We should have convictions, and we should strive to cooperate with the Holy Spirit’s promptings. But, we should also seek to live in unity with others being sensitive to their struggles. I am thankful today that God has given us the Holy Spirit who leads us to victory as opposed to the law which only illustrated our lack of holiness. When we read this chapter, we must remember that even though it seems foreign, it sets the foundation for our current relationship with God.

Deuteronomy 15

[bible passage="Deuteronomy 15" version="ESV"]

Deuteronomy 15 Commentary

by Brad Boyles

A few years ago my wife and I had the opportunity to provide respite care to three little boys. Respite care is when current foster parents need to go away for a short time and cannot take along their foster children, for whatever reason. So, for two days and one night, our family was blessed with a rambunctious house!

At the end of the first day, we played so much that I was exhausted. My wife and I put all the kids to bed and went down to the basement to talk about the day and relax. What I noticed was that my wife and I have different ways of resting and recharging. She was energized the whole day by all the interaction while I was slowly depleted. However, at the end of the night, after I had sat and relaxed for 30 to 45 minutes, I was energized and ready to play a game. My wife and I typically play Sequence against each other every night, so I asked her if she was up for it. Those same 30 to 45 minutes of sitting and relaxing made her tired. She was ready for bed!

It’s interesting to consider how people operate in periods of activity and rest. Ask anyone and they will tell you how they recharge to avoid burn-out. It is fascinating to consider this was a theme that God continually spoke on.

The Israelites were taught to think in terms of cycles based on God’s own character. For instance, God created the world in 6 days and then rested on the 7th. He then prescribed the same cycle based on that timeframe for His people. They would work 6 days and rest on the 7th. But this wasn’t where the theme stopped. They were to have 6 years of business and the 7th of giving freedom to the poor (slaves). They were to have 6 years of farming and the 7th of rest. Finally, here in Deuteronomy 15, they were to collect on loans for 6 years and then cancel the debt on the 7th. So, this concept was ingrained in their lives both personally and relationally.

I don’t know how these would work today, but I think the point we can take away from this is that our God is specific, practical, and personal. He wants us to share His character and understand His ways. He knows precisely the best way to live life, and He is generous in providing grace and mercy in order to learn that process. I’m so thankful for His patience and guidance throughout my life.

Deuteronomy 16

[bible passage="Deuteronomy 16" version="ESV"]

Deuteronomy 16 Commentary

by Brad Boyles

Favoritism. Bribes. Bias. Corruption. Does this not describe our current political climate?

God gave specific laws regarding the judges that He Himself would appoint for Israel. First, there would be impartiality. Everyone would be judged the same regardless of how powerful, popular, or wealthy they were. The judges were to decide what was right, not who was right. They were not to accept bribes, as God instructed that gifts blind the eyes of wise and honest men. This is interesting because we typically think of someone who accepts a bribe as foolish. But in this passage, we learn that a bribe had the power to turn an otherwise wise and honest man into a corrupt man.

All of these warnings fell under the bigger picture of perverting justice on a national scale. Is this not also relevant in our nation today? If the judges set the standard for pursuing and upholding justice, then the people and nation would follow.

When you think about it, justice only comes from the Lord. It is only by Him that we know right from wrong and are enabled to have the courage and character to uphold such truth. A failure to uphold justice was embracing human thoughts and wisdom above God. The laws that the Lord had prescribed were not man-made principles but were rooted in divine authority. The only way to follow what God desired was to follow His law and pursue His justice.

Today, standing for God’s ways is not popular or attractive. Much like a puppet, the strings of our justice system are highly influenced by money, power, and what will produce a positive response from the majority. We must remember that when we stand for Biblical truth, we can expect that the world will not understand and prefer to follow human principles instead. God has promised to reward those who stand on His foundation and punish those who stand against Him. This is His final word on justice.

Deuteronomy 17

[bible passage="Deuteronomy 17" version="ESV"]

Deuteronomy 17 Commentary

by Brad Boyles

There are many times that the Old Testament rituals and rules can seem odd and misplaced under our New Covenant relationship with Jesus. It is imperative that when we go back through the Old Testament, we look at how it corresponds with New Testament truth. In other words, these chapters are not irrelevant for our lives today, they just take a little bit more digging in order to draw out what it means for us in this age.

The end of Deuteronomy 17 is a great example of this. It speaks of the qualifications for Israel’s future king. Moses had predicted that the people would eventually desire and elect a king to rule over them (see Gen 17:16; Gen 35:11; Gen 49:9-12; Num 24:7, Num 24:17). In preparation for that time, God prescribed a set of rules for Israel’s future king.

Verses 15-20 can be summarized with five main points.

The king was to be a man chosen by God and an Israelite.
The king was forbidden to have a large number of horses, and never to return to Egypt.
The king was forbidden from taking many wives.
The king was forbidden to acquire large amounts of gold and silver.
And finally, the king was to keep an original copy of God’s laws and teachings and follow it with all his heart.

When you think about the practicality of these points, they really mirror a believer’s life today. A large army of horses would have tempted the king to trust in his military power instead of God. Having many wives would have tempted the king to pursue foreign gods, drawing his heart away from God. Acquiring a great amount of wealth was dangerous for the same reason because the love of money has the ability to steal our hearts. Finally, God required that the king saturate his heart and mind in the Word of the Lord which would keep Him accountable with truth and wisdom.

Ironically, King Solomon is a prime example of a man who started out so well but was pulled away by all of these desires. These may seem obvious, but as a person of power and prestige, the temptations are stronger than ever. This is why God gave such practical wisdom ahead of time.

All of this is true for us. If we are not rooted in His Word and guarding our hearts against temptation, we too will fall in this same way.

Deuteronomy 18

Deuteronomy 18 – “God said…” It’s a phrase that has permeated our Christian culture. It’s a statement that flies out of people’s mouths easily and routinely. Reading it in Christian books and magazines and hearing it in …

Deuteronomy 19

Deuteronomy 19 – We find the familiar “eye for an eye” passage in Deuteronomy 19. In such cases show no mercy; the punishment is to be a life for a life, an eye for an eye, a …

Deuteronomy 20

Deuteronomy 20 – A lot of us have never thought about what it means to go to war vastly outnumbered. When the facts of the situation do not look to be in our favor, where do we …

Deuteronomy 21

Deuteronomy 21 – How many today take responsibility for their errors? It seems everywhere we turn, we see people playing the blame game. When people are determined to be right and have things their way at all …

Deuteronomy 22

[bible passage="Deuteronomy 22" version="ESV"]

Deuteronomy 22 Commentary

by Brad Boyles

Many of these laws seem outdated or inapplicable to our modern culture. Furthermore, one might say that since we are under the New Covenant we are no longer under the Old Testament law. Though this is true, the laws themselves still guide us with useful principles that reveal the heart of God. We find, in general, that God was not a fan of mixtures. This was first and foremost because His desire was for His people to be separate and holy.

Deuteronomy 22:10 GNB “Do not hitch an ox and a donkey together for plowing.

“This sounds to me like a humorous thing which the Lord is saying here. Actually I saw this done over in Israel. In fact, I have a slide that I took showing an Arab plowing with an ox and an ass yoked together. So they do this over there even today. God says that Israel should not plow that way. Someone may ask, ‘What is wrong with that?’ Well, an ox is an ox and an ass is an ass, and they do not go together. They don’t walk together—their gait is different, and they do not pull together.”

J. Vernon McGee

Why does God caution against being unequally yoked? What did Jesus pray for His children in John 17?

I do not ask you to take them out of the world, but I do ask you to keep them safe from the Evil One. 16 Just as I do not belong to the world, they do not belong to the world.

John 17:15-16 GNB

When we choose to follow God and He places His Spirit in us, we bear His image and conform to the likeness of His Son. We begin to change as He pulls our hearts away from this shallow world toward the Kingdom of Heaven. This process draws a clear line between those who are following the world and those who are following Christ. When you meet someone who knows Jesus, it is evident. They are full of grace and truth. They love deeply and forgive quickly. They pray for their enemies and those who persecute them. They exhibit the fruits of the Spirit.

If we say we love God, but hate others, we are liars. For we cannot love God, whom we have not seen, if we do not love others, whom we have seen. 21 The command that Christ has given us is this: whoever loves God must love others also.

1 John 4:20-21 GNB

The bottom line is: God hates mixtures. When we live our lives with a mixture of Godly words with worldly actions, it is evident that there is something missing. We have not really seen the beauty of Christ.

Deuteronomy 23

[bible passage="Deuteronomy 23" version="ESV"]

Deuteronomy 23 Commentary

by Brad Boyles

As we’ve written many times in Deuteronomy, these laws can seem foreign to us. In some ways, they prescribe almost an ascetic type of lifestyle. Asceticism is defined as a lifestyle characterized by abstinence from sensual pleasures, often for the purpose of pursuing spiritual goals. It sounds good on the surface, but can be dangerous to a believer. Paul writes about this in his letter to Timothy.

But the Spirit explicitly says that in later times some will fall away from the faith, paying attention to deceitful spirits and doctrines of demons, 2 by means of the hypocrisy of liars seared in their own conscience as with a branding iron, 3 men who forbid marriage and advocate abstaining from foods which God has created to be gratefully shared in by those who believe and know the truth. 4 For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with gratitude; 5 for it is sanctified by means of the word of God and prayer.

1 Timothy 4:1-5 NASB

The laws given by God were required for the holiness and protection of His people, but they also could become a stumbling block when taken to the extreme. Not surprisingly, this is exactly what happened later with the religious leaders as they piled all kinds of ridiculous laws upon the people.

The most glaring character trait of someone who has embraced religion over relationship is their lack of joy. Often, legalistic people will go to any means to preserve their own man-made laws and practices. Again, just take the religious leaders as an example. Jesus came to show them the heart of God through grace, mercy, and forgiveness and they plotted with false accusations to have Him killed. They did this because their rules and authority were being threatened.

Legalistic people today are often the meanest gossips. They go around biting at others who threaten their “authority” and have zero interest in feeling compassion for others. This is the result of someone who attempts to find their spiritual identity in the law. It cannot save; it only reveals sin.

We must remember that while the law is important, the church was established on the doctrine of grace and truth. Jesus died so that we would know love and make that the foundation of our lives.

Deuteronomy 24

[bible passage="Deuteronomy 24" version="ESV"]

Deuteronomy 24 Commentary

by Brad Boyles

Just as God showed compassion on you, now you are to show compassion to others.

The last half of Deuteronomy 24 is a “put you in your place” kind of chapter. It is a call to remember who we were before Christ. It’s a series of laws that give practicality to loving God and loving people. What is the summarized message?

When dealing with your neighbors (literally anyone, as Jesus confirms in the Good Samaritan parable) you should always exercise integrity.
Do not be greedy, but rather, generous and compassionate. Then people will have gratitude and see that you are a follower of God.
Remember the poor and treat them with honor and respect.
Each person is responsible for his or her own sins (see commentary on Deuteronomy 5).
Treat foreigners and orphans as if they were your own.

After stating these specific social laws, God then gives the “why” for anyone that would still have questions. He instructs His people to remember.

Remember that you were slaves in Egypt and that the LORD your God set you free; that is why I have given you this command.

Deuteronomy 24:18 GNB

Sometimes remembering is all it takes to shake us from complacency and selfishness. That neighbor, stranger, orphan, foreigner, and poor person used to be YOU! Spiritually, we were all poor, wretched orphans and God adopted us into His family as His own through the blood of Christ. If you have experienced that grace and forgiveness in your life and you remember who you used to be, then naturally you will follow God’s lead and show mercy and integrity toward others. These principles not only pertain to spiritual matters, but they cross over into how we live socially and relationally. Does this describe you today? Are you remembering your former life as you minister to those in need?

Deuteronomy 25

[bible passage="Deuteronomy 25" version="ESV"]

Deuteronomy 25 Commentary

by Brad Boyles

“Do not muzzle an ox when you are using it to thresh grain.”

Deuteronomy 25:4 GNB

On the surface, this seems like a straightforward passage. In that time, an ox would break the grain away from the husk by walking in a circle and trampling on it. It would have been inhumane to make this animal work and also muzzle it so that it could not eat the grain as well. But, there is another application that Paul uses in the New Testament.

“What soldiers ever have to pay their own expenses in the army? What farmers do not eat the grapes from their own vineyard? What shepherds do not use the milk from their own sheep? 8 I don’t have to limit myself to these everyday examples, because the Law says the same thing. 9 We read in the Law of Moses, “Do not muzzle an ox when you are using it to thresh grain.” Now, is God concerned about oxen? 10 Didn’t he really mean us when he said that? Of course, that was written for us. Anyone who plows and anyone who reaps should do their work in the hope of getting a share of the crop. 11 We have sown spiritual seed among you. Is it too much if we reap material benefits from you?”

1 Corinthians 9:7-11 GNB

Warren Wiersbe hilariously writes that oxen cannot read, so this verse was not really written for them…

“Paul quoted Deu 25:4 to prove his point. (He quoted this same verse when he wrote to Timothy and encouraged the church to pay their ministers adequately, 1Ti 5:17-18.) Since oxen cannot read, this verse was not written for them. Nor was it written only for the farmer who was using the labors of the ox. It would be cruel for the farmer to bind the mouth of the ox and prevent him from eating the available grain. After all, the ox was doing the work.

Paul correctly saw a spiritual principle in this commandment: The laborer has the right to share in the bounties. The ox had plowed the soil in preparation for sowing, and now he was treading out the grain that had been harvested. Paul had plowed the soil in Corinth. He had seen a harvest from the seed he had planted. It was only right that he enjoyed some of the fruits of that harvest.”

Warren Wiersbe

Basically, the law regarding oxen had a bigger principle, though, John Calvin rightly argues we shouldn’t make a habit of reading into every verse of the Bible this way and changing its meaning. In this case, Paul correctly explains the allegory. He is making the point that a minister has the right to be supported by the people he is ministering to. Although this is not always, the case, Paul is explaining that this is one way God provided for those who served in ministry.

Deuteronomy 26

Deuteronomy 26 – Once again we enter into an Old Testament story which has significant implications for how we understand events documented in the New Testament. “Then it shall be, when you enter the land which the …

Deuteronomy 27

Deuteronomy 27 – F.B. Meyer paints a beautiful picture of the scene we find in Deuteronomy 27. “Mount Gerizim and Mount Ebal were two masses of limestone rock, reaching 2700 and 2000 feet above the sea-level. Between …

Deuteronomy 28

Deuteronomy 28 – “Come now, and let us reason together,” Says the LORD, “Though your sins are as scarlet, They will be as white as snow; Though they are red like crimson, They will be like wool. …

Deuteronomy 29

Deuteronomy 29 – When I was younger, I used to think it was enough to “keep my oath” with God. If I tried to live as a good person, prayed once in a while, and asked for …

Deuteronomy 30

[bible passage="Deuteronomy 30" version="ESV"]

Deuteronomy 30 Commentary

by Brad Boyles

I was drawn specifically to verse 6 of this chapter because it relates closely to the process a believer undergoes within the New Covenant.

“Moreover the LORD your God will circumcise your heart and the heart of your descendants, to love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul, so that you may live.

Deuteronomy 30:6 NASB

We know that through the Holy Spirit, our hearts are changed and we are empowered to love the Lord God with all our heart and soul. We also know that we are free from sin and death. But I found myself asking, what did this mean to Israel in this context?

First, there were several points to consider leading up to this verse.

They will return to their senses (v. 1)
They will return to the Lord (v. 2)
They will listen to His voice (v. 2)
God will restore them (v. 3)
God will bring them into their land (v. 5)

Finally, we come to verse 6 where God states that He will be the one to “circumcise their hearts.” When we simplify the text to this degree, it can seem transactional. In fact, the first three points above are all the responsibility of Israel and the next three are what God will do for them in light of their obedience. We must remember, however, that God desired a relationship with His people from the very beginning. It was not meant to simply be a transactional relationship based on only following the law. This is clearly seen through God’s sacrifice of Jesus despite humanity’s constant hostility toward Him.

So, this brings us to the main question. If Israel rejected God, Jesus, and the testimony of the Holy Spirit through the early church, what is meant here when God says He will circumcise their hearts? Paul speaks about this in the book of Romans.

For I do not want you, brethren, to be uninformed of this mystery—so that you will not be wise in your own estimation—that a partial hardening has happened to Israel until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in; 26 and so all Israel will be saved; just as it is written, “THE DELIVERER WILL COME FROM ZION, HE WILL REMOVE UNGODLINESS FROM JACOB.” 27 “THIS IS MY COVENANT WITH THEM, WHEN I TAKE AWAY THEIR SINS.”

Romans 11:25-27 NASB

I like how the Jewish New Testament Commentary addresses this question…

“Why is what Sha’ul [Paul] says here a secret truth that was not understood until he explained it? Because one would have expected Israel to be the first nation to be saved. Israel has had advantages enjoyed by no other people (Rom 3:1-2, Rom 9:4-5), the Gospel itself is “to the Jew especially” (Rom 1:16), and God has promised Jewish national salvation (Eze 36:24-36, Mat 23:37-39, Act 1:6-7). Why, then, is he doing the unexpected, making the Gentiles “joint-heirs” (Eph 3:3-9) with the Jews? In order to give the fullest possible demonstration of his love for all humanity and not Jews only.

But the entering of the Gentiles in their fullness, like any other major historical process, such as the Renaissance or the Industrial Revolution, is an event that necessarily must occupy a considerable period of time. Sha’ul’s [Paul’s] prophecy is being fulfilled at this very moment. The Gentiles are entering in their fullness right now. Evangelism has been worldwide for several centuries; parts of the Bible have been translated into some 2,000 languages; a quarter of the world’s population count themselves part of Christendom; and although many unreached peoples remain, the breadth of representation has never been greater. So it is not surprising that with the rise of Messianic Judaism as a conscious worldwide movement within the Jewish people, we are starting to see all Israel saved.”

Jewish New Testament Commentary

Deuteronomy 31

[bible passage="Deuteronomy 31" version="ESV"]

Deuteronomy 31 Commentary

by Brad Boyles

“But was his momentary failure not far too severely punished?”

Alexander MacLaren

We tend to look at old man Moses and feel sorry for him. The fiery temper that ended the life of an Egyptian back in Exodus 2 once again showed itself. Moses hit the rock instead of speaking to it, so now he is forbidden to enter the Promised Land. Was this too harsh? Where was the grace?

If you remember, despite the people’s continual grumbling and the disobedience of Moses, God still granted water from that rock. In His mercy, He let the people be nourished from a disobedient act.

“Then Moses lifted up his hand and struck the rock twice with his rod; and water came forth abundantly, and the congregation and their beasts drank.”

Numbers 20:11 NASB

Similarly, the murder of Jesus was the ultimate act of disobedience. The so-called followers of God murdered His Son. But God used it to nourish His people by accepting it as payment for their sin. There was grace to be found in the wreckage. Let’s not forget, much later, we actually see Moses appear in the Promised Land!

“Six days later Jesus took with Him Peter and James and John his brother, and led them up on a high mountain by themselves. 2 And He was transfigured before them; and His face shone like the sun, and His garments became as white as light. 3 And behold, Moses and Elijah appeared to them, talking with Him.”

Matthew 17:1-3 NASB

Let’s also not miss the fact that Moses was a faithful man. He was no doubt upset that he was unable to enter the land, but that was because he was faithful. This was demonstrated by the fact that he continued to lead the people and encourage them even knowing he would not be going along.

“Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid or tremble at them, for the LORD your God is the one who goes with you. He will not fail you or forsake you.”

Deuteronomy 31:6 NASB

These are amazing words when you consider the magnitude of the punishment Moses was given. He was obedient until the very end. He did not let the disappointment of God’s consequences affect the responsibility to lead. He was able to set aside his own wants and needs in order to give the people what they needed. So, yes, this was a severe consequence dealt to Moses, however, his leadership continued even after this realization and that is something we can all learn from.

Deuteronomy 32

[bible passage="Deuteronomy 32" version="ESV"]

Deuteronomy 32 Commentary

by Brad Boyles

Look at all the names Moses ascribed to God in one song!

the Rock: Deu 31:4; Deu 31:15; Deu 31:18; Deu 31:30
Jehovah: Deu 31:6
Father: Deu 31:6
the Most High: Deu 31:8
God: Deu 31:3
Lord: Deu 31:3

It’s interesting to consider how each was given to speak in a particular situation. In times of trouble, God became the Rock, a firm foundation. Jehovah was the sacred and holy name in which God revealed Himself to the Hebrews. According to some commentaries, this name was considered so sacred by the Jewish people that later in their history it was not to be uttered unless by a high priest on the Day of Atonement when entering the most holy place.

The Most High, or, Elohim describes God’s position. He is higher in title, beauty, position, intelligence, strength, authority, and every other possible way we can think of. There is nothing in the created world or in the spiritual realm that even remotely close to His level. Not only is He unmatched but He is also completely self-sufficient.

Knowing this about God, it is even more shocking that He would desire to know us. This is represented by the name Father, which illustrates God’s willingness to adopt us into His family. This name not only defines God but naturally defines us as His children. He is the most personal and loving Father we could ever have.

Finally, we have Lord. If He is our Lord then we must be His servants. The very nature of that title postures us to follow and obey Him. It commands submission and reverence. When you really think about what you are saying, it brings absolute humility.

Why do you suppose Moses used all these names? I think it’s because he had come to know God in all of these ways. To Moses, God was sacred and holy. He was his firm foundation in times of need. He was the Most High who was worthy of praise. He was his Father who never left him or abandoned him. He was his Lord, the one who he desired to serve all his life. I wonder, do you know God in these ways?

Sadly, many Christians know Jesus as their Savior but do not honor Him as Lord. He is only a free ticket into heaven. Others know Him as Lord but have never reconciled God as their Heavenly Father. They obey the rules but don’t really believe that God can heal the wounds that their earthly father left. Our attitude toward the many names of God can reveal a lot about our struggles. If we emphasize one and neglect another, we do not grasp the complete nature of His character. His desire is that we would know Him and respect Him in all of these ways.

Deuteronomy 33

[bible passage="Deuteronomy 33" version="ESV"]

Deuteronomy 33 Commentary

by Brad Boyles

Moses gives his final blessings to the tribes of Israel. I was drawn to the guidance given to the Levites.

About the tribe of Levi he said: “You, LORD, reveal your will by the Urim and Thummim Through your faithful servants, the Levites; You put them to the test at Massah And proved them true at the waters of Meribah. 9 They showed greater loyalty to you Than to parents, brothers, or children. They obeyed your commands And were faithful to your covenant. 10 They will teach your people to obey your Law; They will offer sacrifices on your altar. 11 LORD, help their tribe to grow strong; Be pleased with what they do. Crush all their enemies; Let them never rise again.”

Deuteronomy 33:8-11 GNB

First question… what does Moses mean by Urim and Thummim? GotQuestions.org offers an accurate, concise definition.

“The Urim (“lights”) and Thummim (“perfections”) were gemstones that were carried by the high priest of Israel on the ephod/priestly garments. They were used by the high priest to determine God’s will in some situations. Some propose that God would cause the Urim and Thummim to light up in varying patterns to reveal His decision. Others propose that the Urim and Thummim were kept in a pouch and were engraved with symbols identifying yes/no and true/false.

No one knows the precise nature of the Urim and Thummim or exactly how they were used. The Bible simply does not give us enough information.”

GotQuestions.org

The main point to consider is that Moses was praying for wisdom and discernment to be revealed through God’s servants. We pray the same thing today when we ask the Holy Spirit to give insight to a believer. The Levites were also to have an educational role in the interpretation and application of God’s law. They were responsible for Israel’s formal system of worship. So, consider what all this means for us today. The Levites would have functioned in a similar role as today’s pastors and teachers. They led the people in worship and taught the Word. They were also held to a stricter standard (v. 9).

It is so fascinating to consider what Moses prays for them at the end of their blessing.

LORD, help their tribe to grow strong; Be pleased with what they do. Crush all their enemies; Let them never rise again.”

Deuteronomy 33:11 GNB

The focus is on strength and protection. Many today are well aware of the fact that strong leaders produce strong churches. Leaders with selfish motives will have an unhealthy body. This is nothing new. However, I find it fascinating that out of everything Moses could have prayed for these Levites, he chose to focus on strength and protection. This assumes that in such a position, these leaders would experience weakness and discouragement at some point. It also assumes that they would square off against people who were hell-bent on destruction. Moses simply refers to these people as “enemies,” but he is confident that God will prevail.

His prayer is directed with a laser focus at struggles that are often overlooked. When I entered ministry, I didn’t envision myself becoming a target of the enemies of God. Maybe I was ignorant, but I never attended a class or seminar entitled, “Enemy Defense 101.” I went into ministry to spread the Good News of Jesus to lost souls. Years ago, this prayer of Moses would have seemed a bit strange to me. Today, it resonates so deeply.

Jesus took the prayers of Moses and defined them. In His Kingdom, those who lead with humility are considered strong. Those who crush their enemies do so by praying for them. Those who please God do so by starting with faith, not by starting with works. We need strong leaders today who allow God to fight for them. We need rock-solid, humble, prayer warriors who trust God so relentlessly that they will never give up. Lord, humble us that we might be made strong. Give us Your Spirit that produces righteousness. Give us an attitude like our Savior Jesus who prayed, “Father forgive them, they know not what they do.”

Deuteronomy 34

Deuteronomy 34 – So Moses the servant of the LORD died there in the land of Moab, according to the word of the LORD. 6 And He buried him in the valley in the land of Moab, …