What is the meaning of Deuteronomy 3:28? But commission Joshua “‘But commission Joshua…’” (Deuteronomy 3:28a) • Moses is instructed to hand over divine authority formally, not casually. Numbers 27:18-23 shows Moses laying hands on Joshua “and commissioned him, as the LORD had instructed.” • Leadership succession is God’s idea, ensuring uninterrupted guidance for His people; compare 2 Timothy 2:2, where Paul tells Timothy to entrust truth to faithful men. • The act affirms that God’s plan continues even when human servants change; see Deuteronomy 34:9, where “Joshua son of Nun was filled with the spirit of wisdom, because Moses had laid his hands on him.” Encourage him “‘…encourage him…’” (Deuteronomy 3:28b) • Joshua faces giants, fortified cities, and an untested nation; he needs spoken courage. • God later echoes the same words: “Be strong and courageous” (Joshua 1:6). • Encouragement is a community duty (1 Thessalonians 5:11) and a leader’s fuel; Moses models it here. And strengthen him “‘…and strengthen him…’” (Deuteronomy 3:28c) • Strengthening goes beyond pep-talks; it involves equipping with truth and reminding of God’s presence—“The LORD Himself goes before you” (Deuteronomy 31:8). • Psalm 31:24 calls all saints to “Be strong and let your heart take courage.” • Ephesians 6:10 underlines the same principle: “Be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power.” Moses’ words align with God’s timeless method—strength comes from Him. For he will cross over ahead of the people “‘…for he will cross over ahead of the people…’” (Deuteronomy 3:28d) • Joshua’s leadership is proactive; he must step into the Jordan first (Joshua 3:6-17). • Deuteronomy 31:3 confirms, “The LORD your God Himself will cross over ahead of you. He will destroy these nations before you, and you will take possession of their land. Joshua will cross over ahead of you.” • Biblical leadership leads from the front, trusting that God is even further ahead. And enable them to inherit the land that you will see “‘…and enable them to inherit the land that you will see.’” (Deuteronomy 3:28e) • Moses will view the land from Pisgah (Deuteronomy 34:1-4) but not enter; Joshua will turn vision into reality. • The promise dates back to Genesis 12:7—“To your offspring I will give this land.” • Joshua 21:43-45 records fulfillment: “Not one of all the LORD’s good promises to Israel failed; every one was fulfilled.” • The inheritance theme anticipates a greater rest (Hebrews 4:8-9) secured by the ultimate Joshua—Jesus—who leads believers into eternal promise. summary Deuteronomy 3:28 reveals God’s orderly transfer of leadership, Moses’ responsibility to prepare Joshua, and the assurance that God’s promises remain unstoppable. Commissioning, encouragement, and strengthening are divine tools to equip Joshua to lead Israel across the Jordan and distribute the inherited land. The verse underscores that God raises new leaders, supplies them with courage and strength, leads them ahead of His people, and faithfully delivers every promise He has spoken. |
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