How does Deuteronomy 3:28 connect to Jesus' commissioning of His disciples? Moses’ Final Charge: Setting the Scene “‘But commission Joshua and encourage and strengthen him, for he will cross over ahead of this people and enable them to inherit the land that you will see.’” (Deuteronomy 3:28) • Moses, barred from entering Canaan, passes leadership to Joshua at God’s command. • The words “commission,” “encourage,” and “strengthen” emphasize public authorization, inward courage, and ongoing empowerment. • Israel’s future conquest hinges on God-appointed leadership prepared to act in faith. Name and Mission Echoes • “Joshua” (Yehoshua) means “Yahweh saves.” • “Jesus” (Yeshua) is the same Hebrew root—pointing to a greater, ultimate Deliverer. • Both are commissioned to lead God’s people into promise: Joshua into Canaan; Jesus into the kingdom life announced in the gospel. Parallels Between Deuteronomy 3:28 and Jesus’ Commission 1. Divine Authority • Deuteronomy 3:28—God Himself commands Moses to authorize Joshua. • Matthew 28:18—“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me.” Jesus speaks with the same direct, divine authority. 2. Public Commissioning • Joshua receives his charge before all Israel (Deuteronomy 31:7–8). • The disciples are commissioned openly on a Galilean mountain (Matthew 28:16-20; Acts 1:8). 3. Encouragement and Assurance • Joshua: “Be strong and courageous… the LORD your God goes with you” (Deuteronomy 31:6). • Disciples: “Surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matthew 28:20). 4. Purpose: Leading Others into Promise • Joshua will “enable them to inherit the land” (Deuteronomy 3:28). • Disciples are to “make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19), leading people into the kingdom’s blessings. 5. Empowerment for the Task • Joshua 1:5: “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” • Acts 1:8: “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you.” Key Connections in Narrative Flow • Leadership Transition → Promise Fulfillment – Moses to Joshua parallels Jesus handing mission to His church. • Continuity of God’s Plan – The covenant promise marches forward through commissioned servants. • Presence of God – “The LORD your God goes with you” (Joshua) → “I am with you always” (disciples). Implications for Today • God’s work never stalls when one servant’s season ends; He raises up the next. • Every believer, like Joshua and the first disciples, receives a call anchored in God’s assured presence and power. • Obedience to the commission, backed by Scripture’s literal promises, advances the kingdom just as surely as Israel once entered Canaan. |
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