Deuteronomy 18:15
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Deuteronomy 18:15
15 The LORD thy God will raise up unto thee a Prophet from the midst of thee, of thy brethren, like unto me; unto him ye shall hearken;
Chapter Context
Deuteronomy 18 is a sermonic and legal chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of covenant, sacrifice, truth. 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 21-22: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. 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 18:15
15 The LORD thy God will raise up unto thee a Prophet from the midst of thee, of thy brethren, like unto me; unto him ye shall hearken;
Analysis
The Prophet to come: 'The LORD thy God will raise up unto thee a Prophet from the midst of thee, of thy brethren, like unto me; unto him ye shall hearken.' This promises a prophet 'like Moses'—lawgiver, mediator, deliverer. The Hebrew uses singular 'Prophet' (נָבִיא, navi), suggesting ultimate fulfillment in one person, though intermediate prophets also came. The command 'unto him ye shall hearken' establishes this Prophet's authority. Deuteronomy's close compares this Prophet to Moses himself—highest possible commendation. This Messianic prophecy finds fulfillment in Christ, the ultimate Prophet revealing God's word, mediating new covenant, and delivering from sin.
Historical Context
Israel asked for a mediator rather than God speaking directly (v.16, referencing Exodus 20:18-21). God granted this, promising prophetic succession culminating in the Prophet. Joshua, Samuel, Elijah, Isaiah, Jeremiah, and others partially fulfilled this, but none equaled Moses until Christ. Peter applies this prophecy to Jesus (Acts 3:22-23), as does Stephen (Acts 7:37). Hebrews 3:1-6 shows Jesus's superiority to Moses: Moses was faithful servant, Christ is faithful Son. Rejecting this Prophet brings judgment (Acts 3:23). Christ fulfills law-giving (Sermon on Mount), mediation (High Priest), and deliverance (salvation from sin).
Reflection
- How does Jesus fulfill the role of 'Prophet like Moses' in ways that surpass all other prophets?
- What does the command to 'hearken unto him' mean for how we receive and respond to Christ's words?
- How does Moses's unique role (lawgiver, mediator, deliverer) anticipate the comprehensive work of Christ?
Word Studies
- God: אֱלֹהִים (Elohim) H430 - God (plural of majesty)
Cross-References
- Prophecy: Deuteronomy 34:10, Luke 24:19, John 1:25, 1:45
- Resurrection: Acts 7:37
- References God: John 6:29, 1 Timothy 2:5
- Parallel theme: Matthew 17:5, Luke 9:35, 1 John 3:23