Deuteronomy1:1-25
Q.1. When did Moses give this history to the new generation of Israelites? How did the journey begin? – (Dt.1:1-8)
This is the second (deuter) giving of the Law (nomos), that God commanded Moses to give to Israel. Moses recalled the lessons of the journey in the fortieth year for a new generation (Dt.1:3 c.f. Num.32:13). By this time, Israel had a fearful reputation, having disposed of many of their enemies (Dt.1:4). The journey to the Promised Land had started full of optimism, built on God’s promise – See, I have placed the land before you; go in and possess the land which the Lord swore to give to your fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, to them and their descendants after them.’ (Dt.1:8).
Q.2. Why did Moses ask for assistance to lead the nation? How were leaders chosen? What was their role? – (Dt.1:9-18)
Moses wanted God to bless His people (Dt.1:11). However, leading and administering justice for some two million people soon became overwhelming. With input from Moses’s father-in-law, Jethro, God directed him to delegate – Choose wise and discerning and experienced men from your tribes, and I will appoint them as your heads.’ (Dt. 1:13 c.f. Ex.18:13-20). Moses appointed heads of thousands, hundreds, fifties, and tens to judge righteously, saying – You shall not show partiality in judgment; you shall hear the small and the great alike. You shall not fear man, for the judgment is God’s. The case that is too hard for you, you shall bring to me, and I will hear it.’ (Dt.1:17 c.f. Dt.4:5-8).
Q.3. How did Moses prepare the people to claim the Promised Land? What strategy was employed? What was the land like? – (Dt.1:19-25)
God directed Moses to take the people from Mount Horeb, in order to claim the Promised Land. Moses called them to go forward with courage, based on the promises of God – See, the Lord your God has placed the land before you; go up, take possession, as the Lord, the God of your fathers, has spoken to you. Do not fear or be dismayed (Dt.1:21). Firstly, the leaders asked for spies to be sent, and then to bring back a report about the land. They agreed that it was a good land (Dt.1:22-25). So far so good.