What is the meaning of Deuteronomy 1:38? Joshua son of Nun “Joshua son of Nun…” (Deuteronomy 1:38) introduces the man God has appointed as Moses’ successor. • First mentioned as a military leader who defeated Amalek while Moses prayed (Exodus 17:9-14). • One of the twelve spies who brought back a faithful report, trusting God despite the giants (Numbers 14:6-9). • Publicly commissioned by Moses with laying on of hands (Numbers 27:18-23), a visible sign that God’s authority was passing to Joshua. These snapshots reveal a man already tested in faith, obedience, and courage—traits needed to shepherd Israel into Canaan. who stands before you “…who stands before you…” underscores Joshua’s ongoing presence at Moses’ side. • He remained in the tent of meeting after Moses departed (Exodus 33:11), showing a hunger for God’s presence. • He “stood before” Moses as an attendant and apprentice, learning firsthand how to seek the Lord’s guidance and judge the people (Deuteronomy 31:14-15). By standing near Moses, Joshua was also standing before the Lord, being prepared for leadership long before the mantle was publicly bestowed. will enter it “…will enter it.” God definitively states that Joshua, not Moses, will take Israel across the Jordan. • This fulfills God’s earlier verdict when the first generation refused to enter (Numbers 14:30). • It also demonstrates the reliability of God’s promise: what He pledges, He performs (Joshua 21:43-45). Israel needed assurance that the future entry was certain; God names the human agent to remove all doubt. Encourage him “Encourage him…” Moses is charged to strengthen Joshua’s heart. • Moses later obeys, speaking words of courage before all Israel (Deuteronomy 31:7-8). • The Lord repeats the command directly to Joshua after Moses’ death: “Be strong and courageous” (Joshua 1:6-9). Encouragement here is not mere cheerleading; it is a divine imperative to infuse Joshua with confidence rooted in God’s faithfulness, enabling him to face fortified cities and battles ahead. for he will enable Israel to inherit the land “…for he will enable Israel to inherit the land.” Joshua’s leadership is the means by which God fulfills the covenant promise first given to Abraham (Genesis 12:7). • Under Joshua, the Jordan parts (Joshua 3:14-17), Jericho’s walls fall (Joshua 6), and the land is apportioned to the tribes (Joshua 13-21). • The word “inherit” highlights permanence; Israel will not merely occupy but legally receive the land as God’s gift (Deuteronomy 4:1). God works through faithful human vessels; Joshua’s obedience opens the door for an entire nation to experience covenant blessing. summary Deuteronomy 1:38 lays out God’s transition plan from Moses to Joshua: the proven servant standing beside his mentor will be the one who actually crosses into Canaan. Moses must encourage Joshua because his leadership is God’s chosen instrument for Israel’s inheritance. The verse assures Israel—and us—that God keeps His promises through the faithful leaders He appoints, bringing His people into every good thing He has declared. |
    |