What does Deuteronomy 31:7 mean?
What is the meaning of Deuteronomy 31:7?

Then Moses called for Joshua

Moses, the servant of the LORD, publicly summons Joshua. This deliberate hand-off signals a literal, historical transfer of leadership. • Numbers 27:18-23 shows God Himself choosing Joshua, affirming that human leadership changes, yet divine purpose remains steady. • Hebrews 13:7 reminds us to remember faithful leaders; Moses models that by honoring God’s servant before he departs. The call underscores continuity: the same God who parted the Red Sea is equipping the next man to guide Israel.


and said to him in the presence of all Israel

Moses speaks before the entire nation so that everyone hears and affirms Joshua’s new role. • 1 Timothy 5:20 illustrates the value of public accountability; here, the nation can later support Joshua without doubt. • Deuteronomy 31:12-13 shows the assembly gathered to learn and obey—Joshua’s commissioning fits that pattern. • Matthew 10:32 highlights confessing Christ before men; similarly, Moses publicly acknowledges God’s chosen leader, encouraging Israel to unite behind Joshua.


Be strong and courageous

This repeated charge (also Deuteronomy 31:6; Joshua 1:6-9) calls Joshua to moral resolve and fearless trust. Strength is not self-generated; it is grounded in the unchanging character of God. • Ephesians 6:10 says, “be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power.” • 2 Timothy 1:7 affirms that God gives a spirit “not of fear, but of power.” The exhortation reminds believers today that obedience often requires courage rooted in faith, not circumstance.


for you will go with this people into the land that the LORD swore to their fathers to give them

Joshua’s mission is certain because God’s promise is certain. • Genesis 12:7 and 15:18 record the original covenant with Abraham; God’s sworn oath anchors Joshua’s confidence. • Exodus 3:8 shows God repeating the promise to Moses, demonstrating continuity across generations. • Hebrews 6:17-18 stresses that it is impossible for God to lie, so the inheritance is guaranteed. Joshua is not forging a new path; he is walking the path God has already mapped out.


and you shall give it to them as an inheritance

Joshua will physically divide the land (Joshua 11:23; 13:1 ff.), fulfilling God’s word in tangible geography. • Psalm 16:6 celebrates “pleasant places” and “a beautiful inheritance,” reflecting the goodness of God’s gifts. • Acts 20:32 points to a spiritual inheritance secured in Christ; Joshua’s allotment foreshadows the believer’s eternal portion (1 Peter 1:4). The verse affirms that God’s promises move from declaration to distribution—what He pledges, He places into His people’s hands.


summary

Deuteronomy 31:7 records Moses publicly commissioning Joshua to lead Israel into the Promised Land. Each phrase highlights God’s faithfulness: leadership passes, but the covenant stands; courage is commanded because victory is assured; inheritance is promised and will be literally possessed. The verse invites every believer to trust the unbreakable promises of God, step forward in Spirit-empowered courage, and anticipate the full inheritance He has prepared.

How does Deuteronomy 31:6 reflect God's character and promises?
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