What role does Moses play in instructing the people in Deuteronomy 27:11? Setting the Scene Deuteronomy 27 opens as Israel camps on the plains of Moab, poised to enter the Promised Land. Verse 11 zeros in: “On that day Moses commanded the people, saying,” (Deuteronomy 27:11) What Moses Does in Verse 11 • He “commanded”—the Hebrew verb tsawâ (“to charge, order”) shows authoritative instruction, not mere suggestion. • He addresses “the people” collectively, reinforcing national unity under God’s covenant. • His words launch the detailed directions that follow (vv. 12-26), linking his voice directly to God’s revealed will. Moses as Covenant Mediator • Spokesman: As at Sinai (Exodus 19:7-8), Moses again relays divine directives. • Organizer: He arranges tribal participation—six tribes for blessing on Mount Gerizim, six for curse on Mount Ebal (vv. 12-13). • Teacher: He explains how the Levites will pronounce twelve “Amen” responses, embedding God’s law in the nation’s memory (vv. 14-26). • Witness: Like a notary at a covenant signing, Moses ensures everyone hears and acknowledges the terms (cf. Deuteronomy 31:9-13). Guiding the People Toward Blessing and Warning Verse 11 introduces a liturgy that does three things: 1. Highlights obedience → blessing (28:1-14). 2. Exposes disobedience → curse (28:15-68). 3. Creates a public, audible moment so no Israelite can claim ignorance (27:15-26). Consistency with Moses’ Lifelong Ministry Deuteronomy 27:11 mirrors earlier patterns: • Deuteronomy 4:1-2—“listen to the statutes and ordinances.” • Deuteronomy 5:31—“stand here by Me... teach them.” • Deuteronomy 31:24-26—he deposits the written Torah beside the ark for perpetual reference. Hebrews 3:5 later sums it up: “Moses was faithful as a servant in all God’s house.” Key Takeaways • Moses stands as God’s appointed instructor, charging Israel to live out the covenant. • His command in 27:11 sets in motion a ceremony that makes God’s blessings and curses unforgettable. • By speaking, organizing, and witnessing, Moses ensures the next generation crosses the Jordan with clear, non-negotiable guidance for faithful living. |
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