What can we learn from Moses' role in explaining the law in Deuteronomy 1:5? Setting the Scene “On the east side of the Jordan in the land of Moab, Moses began to explain this law, saying:” (Deuteronomy 1:5) Why Moses Explains • A new generation stood on the brink of Canaan (Numbers 14:29–31). • Forty years of wilderness wandering had ended; many eyewitnesses of Sinai were gone. • Before crossing the Jordan, the people needed a fresh, clear presentation of God’s commands. What We Learn from Moses’ Role • Faithful stewardship of revelation – Moses does not invent; he clarifies what God already spoke (Exodus 19:7–8). • The law requires understanding, not mere hearing – “The unfolding of Your words gives light; it imparts understanding to the simple” (Psalm 119:130). • Repetition safeguards truth – Peter later echoes this principle: “I will always remind you of these things” (2 Peter 1:12). • Teaching precedes obedience – “Hear, O Israel… You shall love the LORD your God” (Deuteronomy 6:4–5). • Leadership and Scripture are inseparable – Like Moses, Ezra “set his heart… to teach” (Ezra 7:10). • Generational discipleship matters – Moses recounts history so the children will not repeat their parents’ unbelief (Deuteronomy 1:35-39). • Clarity invites commitment – When the Word is explained “with interpretation,” people understand and rejoice (Nehemiah 8:8-12). Moses as a Model Teacher 1. Grounded in covenant authority—speaks only what God revealed. 2. Patient—retells law after decades of rebellion. 3. Pastoral—connects commands to real-life history and future hope. 4. Thorough—covers moral, civil, and ceremonial aspects (Deuteronomy 4–26). 5. Urgent—knows his time is short (Deuteronomy 31:2). New Testament Echoes • Jesus, the greater Moses, “opened their minds to understand the Scriptures” (Luke 24:45). • Paul charges Timothy: “Devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation, and to teaching” (1 Timothy 4:13). • The church continues Moses’ pattern: “Explain and apply” (Acts 17:2-3). Living It Out Today • Seek clarity—study until you can explain God’s Word simply. • Teach at home—“Repeat them to your children” (Deuteronomy 6:7). • Embrace repetition—truth sinks in through consistent exposure. • Value faithful teachers—support those who labor in the Word (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13). • Prepare the next generation—pass on doctrine before they face their “Jordan.” |
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