Bible Study

Read Deuteronomy 29.1-29.

Reread Deuteronomy 29.1-9. If God made a covenant with the Israelites at Mount Sinai/Horeb, why is He making a covenant with them in this chapter? Is it wise to reiterate our covenantal relationship with God periodically? Why or why not? Explain verse four. In verse six, God concludes with the phrase “that you might (may) know.” What does this phrase reveal about God and His intentions?

Reread Deuteronomy 29.10-29. Who are the parties to the covenant? Part of verse ten could literally be translated: You have taken your stand. What commitment is implied here? What New Testament counterparts come to your mind? In verse twelve, the concept of entering into the covenant could be literally translated: that you may pass over into the covenant of Yahweh. Compare this to John 15. What needs to happen in each generation according to this passage? What particular warning is given about idolatry? Explain. Why do you suppose man is so drawn to idols? What is God’s response to idolatry? Are the idols powerful enough to overcome God’s curse? Explain.

Read Deuteronomy 30.1-14. What must Israel do to once again gain God’s favor? Is modern Israel the fulfillment of this prophecy? Why or why not? How will the people be able to turn to God? What phrase occurs twelve times in the first ten verses of this passage? Explain the significance of this phrase. What significance does this phrase have to you? What distinguishes Christianity from all religions?