How does Deuteronomy 1:5 connect with Jesus' teachings in the New Testament? Setting the Scene in Deuteronomy 1:5 “On the east side of the Jordan in the land of Moab, Moses began to explain this law, saying:” • Moses stands as Israel’s covenant mediator, poised to restate and clarify God’s law before the people enter the land. • The verb “explain” (Hebrew: bā’ar, to make clear or make plain) underscores Moses’ role as an authoritative expositor of God’s Word. Echoes in Jesus’ Teaching Ministry • Jesus likewise takes the role of authoritative teacher, unfolding the true intent of the Law. – Matthew 5:17-18: “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them, but to fulfill them.” – Matthew 5:21-22, 27-28, etc.: “You have heard that it was said… but I say to you,” mirroring Moses’ explanatory style yet heightening it with divine authority. • Luke 24:27: “Beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, He explained to them what was written in all the Scriptures about Himself.” – Jesus, resurrected, does exactly what Moses did—only now He reveals Himself as the fulfillment. • John 1:17: “For the Law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.” – The continuity: Moses clarifies the Law; Jesus completes it, embodying grace and truth. Key Points of Connection • Location & Timing – Moses: on the edge of the Promised Land, preparing Israel for covenant life. – Jesus: on hillsides, in synagogues, and finally near Jerusalem, preparing a people for the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 4:17). • Authority Claimed – Moses speaks for God: “Thus says the LORD.” – Jesus speaks as God: “But I say to you.” • Purpose of Explanation – Moses: to ensure Israel’s obedience and blessing (Deuteronomy 30:15-20). – Jesus: to internalize the law (“written on their hearts,” Jeremiah 31:33; cf. Hebrews 8:10). • Covenant Culmination – Moses’ exposition precedes entry into Canaan. – Jesus’ exposition precedes the New Covenant sealed at the cross (Luke 22:20). Shared Themes Highlighted • Love for God and Neighbor – Deuteronomy 6:5: “Love the LORD your God with all your heart…” – Matthew 22:37-40: Jesus cites this as the “greatest commandment,” affirming Moses. • Obedience from the Heart – Deuteronomy 10:16: “Circumcise your hearts…” – Matthew 5-7: Jesus presses past external compliance to heart-level righteousness. • Blessing through Faithful Response – Deuteronomy 28: Blessings and curses. – Matthew 7:24-27: Wise vs. foolish builders—blessing tied to doing His words. Practical Takeaways Today • Treasure the full counsel of Scripture—Old and New Testaments are a single story of redemption. • Read Jesus’ words in light of Moses’ exposition; they harmonize, not contradict. • Let Christ’s authoritative explanation shape heart, mind, and behavior, just as Moses called Israel to whole-hearted obedience. |
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