Moses, the great prophet and leader of Israel, delivered his final words and facilitated the transition of leadership to Joshua as recorded in the Book of Deuteronomy. This pivotal moment in biblical history marks the end of Moses' earthly journey and the beginning of a new chapter for the Israelites as they prepare to enter the Promised Land.

Final Words of Moses

Moses' final words are encapsulated in the Book of Deuteronomy, which serves as a series of speeches and instructions given to the Israelites on the plains of Moab. These speeches are both a recapitulation of the Law and a heartfelt exhortation to remain faithful to the covenant with God. Moses emphasizes the importance of obedience, love for God, and the consequences of disobedience. In Deuteronomy 30:19-20 , Moses implores the people, "I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you today that I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse. So choose life, so that you and your descendants may live, and that you may love the LORD your God, obey Him, and hold fast to Him. For He is your life, and He will prolong your life in the land that the LORD swore to give to your fathers, to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob."

Moses also delivers a prophetic song in Deuteronomy 32, which serves as a witness against Israel should they turn away from God. This song highlights God's faithfulness and the people's tendency to rebel, urging them to remember the Lord's past deeds and to trust in His future promises.

Blessing of the Tribes

Before his death, Moses blesses the tribes of Israel, as recorded in Deuteronomy 33. Each tribe receives a specific blessing that reflects their unique role and future within the nation. These blessings are both prophetic and pastoral, offering encouragement and guidance. For example, Moses blesses the tribe of Judah with strength and leadership, saying, "Hear, O LORD, the cry of Judah; bring him to his people. With his own hands he defends his cause. Oh, be his help against his foes!" (Deuteronomy 33:7).

Transition of Leadership to Joshua

The transition of leadership from Moses to Joshua is a divinely orchestrated event. God Himself appoints Joshua as Moses' successor, ensuring continuity and stability for the Israelites. In Numbers 27:18-20 , the LORD instructs Moses, "Take Joshua son of Nun, a man with the Spirit in him, and lay your hands on him. Have him stand before Eleazar the priest and the whole congregation, and commission him in their sight. Confer on him some of your authority, so that the whole congregation of the Israelites will obey him."

Moses obediently follows God's command, publicly commissioning Joshua and encouraging him to be strong and courageous. In Deuteronomy 31:7-8 , Moses tells Joshua, "Be strong and courageous, for you will go with this people into the land that the LORD swore to their fathers to give them, and you shall give it to them as an inheritance. The LORD Himself goes before you; He will be with you. He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid or discouraged."

Moses' Death and Legacy

Moses' death is recorded in Deuteronomy 34. He ascends Mount Nebo, where the LORD shows him the Promised Land from a distance. Moses dies there, and the LORD Himself buries him in an undisclosed location. Despite not entering the Promised Land, Moses is remembered as a faithful servant of God, a prophet unparalleled in his intimacy with the LORD, and a leader who guided Israel through the wilderness.

The transition of leadership to Joshua marks the continuation of God's plan for His people. Joshua, filled with the spirit of wisdom, leads the Israelites into the Promised Land, fulfilling the promises made to the patriarchs. Moses' final words and the transition of leadership underscore the importance of faithfulness, obedience, and trust in God's promises as the Israelites embark on a new chapter in their history.