What is the meaning of Deuteronomy 1:14? You answered me - Moses has just suggested appointing wise, understanding, and respected men as tribal leaders (Deuteronomy 1:9-13). The very first words of verse 14 emphasize that the people responded— they did not remain silent or indifferent. - Their willingness to give an answer reflects the pattern seen at Sinai: “And all the people answered together and said, ‘All that the LORD has spoken we will do’” (Exodus 19:8). - A responsive heart toward godly leadership is commended elsewhere: “Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they keep watch over your souls” (Hebrews 13:17). and said - The verse highlights spoken agreement. Scripture often links the mouth to the heart’s posture: “A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver” (Proverbs 25:11). - By articulating their consent, the Israelites committed themselves publicly, echoing Joshua’s generation: “They answered Joshua, ‘All that you have commanded us we will do’” (Joshua 1:16-17). - Words matter; Jesus affirmed, “For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned” (Matthew 12:37). What you propose to do - Moses’ proposal was not a personal whim; it flowed from God-given wisdom first modeled by Jethro’s counsel to Moses (Exodus 18:17-23). - Delegating qualified leaders safeguards the community, much like the apostles’ plan to appoint seven men for service so the word of God would spread (Acts 6:2-5). - Scripture praises seeking counsel: “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed” (Proverbs 15:22). is good - Declaring the plan “good” shows discernment that aligns with God’s character: “He has shown you, O man, what is good” (Micah 6:8). - Goodness here means beneficial, pleasing to God, and advantageous for the people. The New Testament echoes this evaluative lens: “Test and approve what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God” (Romans 12:2). - Wisdom from above “is first of all pure, then peaceable… full of mercy and good fruit” (James 3:17); the people recognized those qualities in Moses’ plan. summary Deuteronomy 1:14 records Israel’s verbal, wholehearted agreement with Moses’ Spirit-led proposal to appoint capable leaders. Their answer models a responsive heart, spoken commitment, appreciation for wise planning, and discernment of what is truly good. The verse reminds believers today to listen to godly counsel, respond openly, and affirm what aligns with the Lord’s righteous purposes. |
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