Bible Study

Deuteronomy 30.1-31.13

The time is coming for Moses to depart. He has lead this people for almost forty years. He encourages the people to fear and obey God.

Read Deuteronomy 29.24-30.20.

Reread Deuteronomy 30.1-10. What is the “time” word in verse one? What does this word imply? Look at the word “return” in verse two. “Return” has two sides to it. In Hebrew it is used to explain where Israel’s obedience is directed. How is it used here? Compare verses 1-5 with Luke 15.11-32. How do these passages parallel each other? How are they different? 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 commandment is paraphrased in verse ten?

Reread Deuteronomy 30.11-14. Explain these verses. How does this distinguish Christianity from all religions? What did obedience to the Law indicate?

Reread Deuteronomy 30.15-20. What are the pairs of “opposites” in these verses? How do “hope” and “fear” define each of these pairs of opposites? What is the progression in verse 20? What covenant is reminiscent of this progression?

Read Deuteronomy 31.1-13.

Reread Deuteronomy 31.1-8. Who is speaking in these verses? How do they differ from the preceding chapters? What was the surety of the assertions in these verses? What charge is put before the people and Joshua? Is it a reasonable charge? Why or why not?

Reread Deuteronomy 31.9-13. How were the people to be able to store the Law of God in their hearts? How would you equate the year of Jubilee with the Law? What was the Jubilee a picture of for people under the Law? What concept is central to obeying God?