What is the meaning of Deuteronomy 31:13? Then their children Moses looks beyond the adults standing before him to the sons and daughters who will soon inherit the nation’s life. Scripture repeatedly calls parents to pass on God’s truth (Deuteronomy 6:6-7; Psalm 78:5-6). Here the command is not optional—every child is included so that no generation drifts from covenant faithfulness. who do not know the law These little ones lack firsthand knowledge. They have not witnessed Sinai or the wilderness miracles (cf. Deuteronomy 11:2). Without intentional instruction, they will grow up spiritually ignorant. God therefore establishes a rhythm of public reading (31:10-12) to close that knowledge gap. will listen and learn “Faith comes by hearing” (Romans 10:17), so hearing precedes learning. • Listening: the gathered assembly hears the actual words of God. • Learning: minds are engaged, truth is absorbed, and worldview is shaped. The same pattern surfaces in Nehemiah 8:2-3, where Ezra reads the Law aloud and the people gain understanding. to fear the LORD your God The objective is not mere information but reverent relationship. “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom” (Proverbs 9:10). This awe-filled respect produces obedience (Deuteronomy 6:2) and guards against idolatry (Joshua 24:14). Genuine fear combines trust, love, and submission—an anchor for life in the land. as long as you live in the land Israel’s tenure in Canaan is tied to ongoing covenant fidelity (Deuteronomy 4:40; 30:20). Continuous hearing of the Law fosters sustained fear of God, which in turn secures prolonged blessing and stability (Deuteronomy 12:28). that you are crossing the Jordan to possess The verse is spoken on the threshold of promise. God links their future occupation of Canaan (Joshua 1:2-3) with faithful attention to His Word. Possession is a gift; retention depends on obedience. The Jordan crossing will mark a new chapter, but the Law remains their unchanging guide. summary Deuteronomy 31:13 underscores God’s plan for generational discipleship. Public, regular reading of Scripture guarantees that even children unfamiliar with the Law can hear it, learn it, and develop a holy fear of the LORD. This reverence is the key to enjoying and retaining the inheritance God provides. By keeping Scripture central, every generation safeguards its walk with God and the blessings of His covenant. |
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