The Bible OverBrew - Bible in a Yearنموونە

Week 8. Day 1. Deuteronomy 1-3.

Introduction to Deuteronomy

God has freed his people from cruel slavery in Egypt, and brought them to himself at Mount Sinai, where he entered into covenant with them and made them formally his people. He gave the tabernacle so that his Eden-like, Mount Sinai-like presence could go with them on their journey through the wilderness to the promised land. Now the people stand on the threshold of the promised land, on the plains of Moab just across the Jordan. Before they enter (in the book of Joshua), Moses gives a second telling of the law (this is what ‘Deuteronomy’ means). This is looking ahead to life in the land.

The purpose of God giving his people his laws is life. The laws are not meant to be burdensome, but rather expressions of his good character. So, as you read Deuteronomy, you might wish to note all references to:

• ‘so that you may live long’
• ‘that it may go well with you’

Deuteronomy recounts the past (God’s Exodus deliverance and the covenant at Sinai) but very much for the present: for the ‘today’ of decision. The book of Deuteronomy was to be read every seven years in Israel, meaning later generations (including Christians today) were to hear its message. The message of Deuteronomy may be summed up in words from Psalm 95:

Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts’(Psalm 95:7-8 ESV)

Deuteronomy 1-3

Deu 1-3 contains a review of Israel’s history since Exodus. As you read, look out for

• God’s faithfulness (e.g. 1:8; 1:10; 1:30-31; 2:7; 3:18-22)
• Israel’s unfaithfulness (1:19-2:1)

Why do you think this history is re-told just before the people enter the land? (3:21-22 will give you one reason, but there are more).

NOTE: Days 1-5 of each week contain the scripture reading for that week. Day 6 has just the 'key chapters'. If you want a briefer version of this plan that still takes you through the whole Bible, you could just read the key chapters featured on day 6. Day 7 has the podcast video where we discuss the week's reading.