Deuteronomy 1:38
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Deuteronomy 1:38
38 But Joshua the son of Nun, which standeth before thee, he shall go in thither: encourage him: for he shall cause Israel to inherit it.
Chapter Context
Deuteronomy 1 is a sermonic and legal chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of judgment, love, prayer. Written during the end of the wilderness wandering (c. 1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Moses delivered these speeches as Israel prepared to enter a land filled with different Canaanite city-states.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-46: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Deuteronomy and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Deuteronomy 1:38
38 But Joshua the son of Nun, which standeth before thee, he shall go in thither: encourage him: for he shall cause Israel to inherit it.
Analysis
Joshua's appointment as Moses' successor demonstrates God's sovereign preparation of leadership. The command 'encourage him' (Hebrew 'chazaq'—strengthen, make firm) reveals that even chosen leaders require support from the covenant community. Joshua would 'cause Israel to inherit' the land—not by his own strength but as God's ordained instrument. This illustrates the Reformed understanding that God works through appointed means to accomplish His sovereign purposes. Human agency and divine sovereignty cooperate without contradiction.
Historical Context
Joshua, Moses' assistant from youth (Exodus 33:11), was approximately 50 years old when appointed Moses' successor. He had served faithfully as military commander (Exodus 17:9-13) and, with Caleb, brought the faithful minority report at Kadesh-barnea (Numbers 14:6-9). Joshua would lead Israel for approximately 25 years, conquering Canaan and distributing tribal inheritances (Joshua 1-24).
Reflection
- How does Joshua's appointment demonstrate God's sovereign preparation of leadership transitions?
- What does the command to 'encourage' Joshua teach about the congregation's responsibility toward appointed leaders?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Deuteronomy 3:28, Numbers 14:30