What does Deuteronomy 18:17 reveal about God's communication with His people? Setting the Verse in Context - Israel is on the plains of Moab, preparing to enter the land. - Moses has just reminded the people of the awesome, fear-inducing encounter at Sinai (Deuteronomy 18:16; cf. Exodus 20:18-19). - The nation begged for an intermediary so they would not have to hear God’s thunderous voice directly. - Deuteronomy 18:17 records the LORD’s immediate response. Text of Deuteronomy 18:17 “Then the LORD said to me, ‘They have spoken well.’ ” Key Truths Revealed About Divine Communication • God attentively listens. – He hears every word His people utter, even their fears and misgivings (Psalm 34:15). • God evaluates and affirms what is right. – “They have spoken well” shows He judges their request as legitimate, not rebellious. • God responds personally. – Communication is two-way; Israel speaks, and the LORD replies (Jeremiah 33:3). • God chooses mediators for the people’s benefit. – Their plea leads directly to the promise of a prophet like Moses (Deuteronomy 18:18). • God’s affirmation underscores His compassion. – He understands human frailty and adjusts His method of revelation accordingly (Psalm 103:13-14). Implications for Israel Then and for Believers Today 1. Assurance of being heard • If God listened to fearful Israel, He hears His children now (1 Peter 3:12). 2. Confidence in God-approved mediation • The prophetic office culminates in Christ, the ultimate Mediator (Acts 3:22; Hebrews 1:1-2; 1 Timothy 2:5). 3. Expectation of clear, authoritative revelation • When God speaks through His chosen vessels, His words carry absolute authority (2 Peter 1:21). 4. Encouragement to approach Him reverently • Israel’s fear was appropriate; God is holy. Yet He provided a gracious means to draw near (Hebrews 4:16). Supporting Scriptures - Exodus 20:19 – Israel’s original request for a mediator. - Deuteronomy 18:18-19 – God’s promise to raise up a prophet and put His words in that prophet’s mouth. - Hebrews 1:1-2 – God, who spoke through prophets, has now spoken by His Son. - John 12:49 – Jesus speaks only what the Father commands, perfectly fulfilling the prophetic pattern. - 1 Samuel 3:10 – God calling Samuel illustrates ongoing, personal communication. Takeaway Points to Remember • God listens carefully to His people and values honest requests. • He graciously provides sanctioned channels—prophets and ultimately His Son—to make His will known. • Divine communication is trustworthy, clear, and authoritative because it originates with the One who judges what is “well spoken.” |
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