Preparation For Moses Death

Deuteronomy 32:28–52
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The enemies who bring God’s judgment on Israel were as evil as Sodom and Gomorrah (v. 32). This points out the depth of evil into which Israel had fallen. Through this detailed analysis of the law, it has been made clear that God’s standards are absolute and that He will not tolerate sin.  Even though God would let His enemies bring judgment on Israel He would still hold those enemies accountable for their wickedness and repay them for evil (vv. 34-35).

Moses ironically calls on Israel to seek help from their false God’s, knowing, of course, they would be unable to help (vv. 36-38). God’s goal in judging Israel was not to annihilate her but to bring her to a point of repentance (vv. 39-43). Think of it! Even though His chosen people will stray far from His will, He will still remember His Holy covenant with the patriarchs (vv. 43). The song is ended and now Moses brings his instruction to an end (vv. 46-57).

The nation of Israel was not to obey God simply as a matter of routine but was to set her heart (v. 46) to cleave to the revealed will of God gladly, spontaneously, and enthusiastically. Furthermore, they were to teach this to their children.

Moses was instructed to climb Mt Nebo from which he could see the promised land, and having viewed this land that was forbidden him, to die. He was the representative of the Law, the lawgiver, but he could not enter the land. The Law cannot save. It could not bring Moses into the land (vv. 48-52). Neither can it bring us into the place of blessing.

Application

Moses urged the people to think about God’s Word and teach it to their children. This is what I have tried to do with my children and want to do with my grandchildren.