Devarim 4 (Deuteronomy 4)
Devarim 4 provides a singular witness of the authenticity of Yehovah, Scriptures and His people. To think otherwise would be foolish and the eventual destruction of the individual. It seems that Moshe was establishing the boundaries of Scriptures and therefore our lives. He provides not only the basis for Scriptures, but the resultant outcome in time to come. Devarim 4 is worthy of in-depth study by all who desire to find absolute hope for their lives and the meaning of life. On the surface, it may seem simple in concept, but it will require years to fully implement.
Top
Sections:
|
|
|
Yehovah is used 29 times in Devarim 4.
Return to Devarim (Deuteronomy)
Return to Books of the Bible
Return to Bible Studies
On the Basis Of
On the Basis Of
Devarim 4:1
1 Now therefore hearken, Yisrael, to the statutes and to the judgments, which I teach (lamad) you, for to do, that you may live, and go in and possess the land which Yehovah God of your fathers gives you.
Therefore is a conjunctive adverb that means for that reason or cause, thus, or consequently. In this case, on the basis of everything previously stated, the following should be done.
Now therefore is the Hebrew word וְעַתָּה. This is עַתָּה attah (H6258) with the prefix וְְ. וְ means and.
עַתָּה attah (H6258) is in the Bible 433 times. It is translated now, whereas, henceforth, this time forth and straightway. It means at this time, whether adverb, conjunction or expletive. In Devarim 4:1, עַתָּה attah (H6258) carries the meaning of therefore.
When one reads Devarim 4, they are to understand that based on Moshe’s previous statements, they should do the following. It is important to understand Moshe’s basis for what he will tell the Children of Yisrael to do.
The basis is the following:
· Allowing the First Generation the opportunity to see the land and learning that they cannot possess the land without Yehovah intervening on their behalf.
· Fact that Kalev and Yehoshua who believed, were preserved these 40 years.
· Esav, Moav and Ammon overwhelmed a people greater than them and possess their lands to this day through Yehovah’s strength.
· Yisrael had already overcome Sichon, Arad and Og and now possess their lands and possessions.
· Gad, Reuven and the half tribe of Menashsheh were given lands.
These few things are the basis of what Moshe is about to declare. Yet there are many more things that Yehovah had done for these people and will continue to do. Now comes the Children of Yisrael’s duty to Yehovah if they want His power to continue in their lives.
We need to carefully consider and meditate on these words, because their duty is our duty. If we fail to understand and comply, we will fail in our endeavors in this lifetime. Potentially, it could lead to a complete breakdown of our faculties.
Inescapable Truth
Inescapable Truth
Devarim 4:1
1 Now therefore hearken, Yisrael, to the statutes and to the judgments, which I teach you, for to do, that you may live, and go in and possess the land which Yehovah God of your fathers gives you.
On the basis of the few things that Moshe mentioned, he tells the Children of Yisrael to keep the statutes and judgments that are contained within Torah. Honestly, the few things that Moshe mentioned were not small things. Anyone of them should be justification enough to believe that Yehovah’s word was more than resolute. The people should understand that Yehovah means what He states.
This is an inescapable truth of Scriptures that is often minimized. When Yehovah states something, it is an eternal truth. It will come to pass as He said it would in the conditions He requires within His timing.
Unfortunately, the First Generation did not understand this concept. They did not believe He would do what He said. It is stated of them in Hebrews 3:17-19.
17 But with whom was He grieved forty years? Not with them that had sinned, whose carcasses fell in the wilderness. 18 And to whom He swore that they should not enter into His rest, but to them that believed not? 19 So we see that they could not enter in because of unbelief.
The problem with the First Generation was not so much they sinned, it was because they did not believe Yehovah at His word. As such they could not enter into the rest.
Moshe’s appeal to the Second Generation was beyond just belief. His appeal was for the preservation of the people. He stated that if one would observe the statutes and judgments that he would teach them, they would possess and continue to live in the land. This should be no surprise to us. Possession of something without understanding proper implementation is to possess a curse. This is why we are reminded in Hebrews 4:1-2.
1 Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left of entering into His rest, any of you should seem to come short of it. 2 For to us was the gospel preached, as well as to them. But the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard.
For us as believer, there is a promise of rest. However, it is not something without conditions related to it. The Children of Yisrael were given a promise of rest when they entered the land if they would observe what follows in Devarim 4. This applies to us today. The only difference is what Paul states in Romans 7:6.
6 But now we are delivered from the law, that being dead wherein we were held; that we should serve in newness of Spirit, and not the oldness of the letter.
The Children of Yisrael had the letter and would eventually understand the newness. We have the letter and the newness. We must not fail to see the difference. The letter of the law, although simple in concept, cannot be observed today. It requires two significant things that are not possible today, the Temple and the Kingdom of Yisrael as defined by Scriptures. Today neither of these exist. Presently, it is not Yehovah’s desire to bring these back in the physical form that once existed. These were a mere shadow of Yehovah’s ultimate desire. If it had been Yehovah’s desire to bring back either, He would have done this in the First Century. The Apostles asked this very question in Acts 1:6.
6 When they therefore were come together, they asked of Him, saying, Lord, will You at this time restore again the Kingdom to Yisrael?
Yeshua told them in Acts 1:7-8.
7 And He said to them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father has put in His own power. 8 But you shall receive power, after that the Holy Spirit is come upon you. And you shall be witnesses to Me both in Yerushalayim and in all Yudaea, and in Shomeron, and to the uttermost part of the earth.
The Apostles did not understand that day, but they certainly did shortly, Acts 2:1-4.
1 And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. 2 And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. 3 And there appeared to them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. 4 And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.
Today, we should not be looking for the return of the physical Kingdom nor the Temple, just as we are not to observe the letter. We are to look for the Spiritual Kingdom and observe the newness of the Spirit. If we are to take possession of the Spiritual Kingdom and secure our inheritance in it. To do this, we must have total belief in Yehovah and observe the newness of the Spirit in this lifetime, Hebrews 4:3.
3 For we which have believed do enter into rest, as He said, As I have sworn in My wrath, if they shall enter into my rest. Although the works were finished from the foundation of the world.
The works are finished, we just need to move in His power in the newness of the Spirit and Truth to have rest in this lifetime.
Neither Add nor Take Away
Neither Add nor Take Away
Devarim 4:2
2 You shall not add to the word which I command you, neither shall you diminish from it, that you may keep the commandments of Yehovah your God which I command you.
Of all the commandments and judgments, this is the least observed. There are two basic ways this has been violated over the years.
In an effort to never violate the statutes and judgments, the Rabbis have regulated a group of laws that would prevent one from ever violating Torah. These are similar to constructing fences around a building. The fence prevents one from crossing a line that would violate a law. This is similar to driving at 65 mph when the speed limit is 70 mph. If one drives at 65 mph, they are less likely to exceed the 70 mph. It provides a margin of 5 mph just in case unforeseen circumstances occur. For example, when one accelerates to the speed limit if they did not regulate the rate of acceleration, they could easily exceed the speed limit.
The other way this had been violated has been through the concept that the law is not for today. Although believers use Scriptures to validate their arguments, it is typically a misunderstanding and misuse of Scriptures. For example, Galatians 3:13.
13 Messiah has redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us. For it is written, Cursed every one that hangs on a tree.
There are those that state that the Law, Torah, is a curse. Further, Messiah has delivered us from the curse. The Law is not the curse, the curse is a broken Law. Besides the fact that the argument against Torah defies logic. Many will interpret Galatians 3:13 in a way that allows for the least common denominator. In this lifetime, if a believer does not walk in the newness of Torah, they should expect chastisement due to a failure to properly judge their own life, 1 Corinthians 11:30-32.
30 For this cause many weak and sickly among you, and many sleep. 31 For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged. 32 But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we should not be condemned with the world.
When we add or subtract from Torah, we build a barrier that keeps us from Torah. It is important to understand Torah, not only because it keeps us safe, but because it helps us to understand the character of Yehovah and how to behave in a manner that is well pleasing in His sight.
The commandment not to add nor take away will be repeated several times in Scriptures. Shelomo tells us in Mishlei 30:6.
6 Add you not to His words, Lest He reprove you, and you be found a liar.
When we add to His words in anyway, we risk the potential of being rebuked by Yehovah. This is similar to what happened to Elihu in the Sefer of Iyyov. Yehovah stated in Iyyov 38:1-2.
1 Then Yehovah answered Iyyov out of the whirlwind, and said, 2 Who this that darkens counsel by words without knowledge?
Although many assume Yehovah is referring to Iyyov as the one that darkens counsel, that is not true, Iyyov 42:7-8.
7 And it was, that after Yehovah had spoken these words to Iyyov, Yehovah said to Elifaz the Temanite, My wrath is kindled against you, and against your two friends. For you have not spoken of Me right, as My servant Iyyov. 8 Therefore take to you now seven bull and seven rams, and go to My servant Iyyov, and offer up for yourselves a burnt offering; and My servant Iyyov shall pray for you. For him will I accept. Lest I deal with you folly, in that you have not spoken of Me right, like My servant Iyyov.
Twice Yehovah states, that only Iyyov spoke right of Him. He rebuked Elifaz, his two friends and Elihu. It is sad that most do not take the time to understand who spoke right.
Paul tells us in 1 Corinthians 4:6.
6 And these things, brethren, I have in a figure transferred to myself and Apollos for your sakes; that you might learn in us not to think above that which is written, that no one of you be puffed up for one against another.
Paul tells us that when we think above what is written, it just causes strife and adversity. Going beyond or taken away what is written is a true mark of a carnal Christian.
As believers today, we need to learn how to apply the newness of the Spirit while staying within the boundaries of Scriptures. This in itself will take time and meditation. Something we should all be glad to do.
Cleave to Yehovah
Cleave to Yehovah
Devarim 4:3-4
3 Your eyes have seen what Yehovah did because of Baal-Peor. For all the men that followed Baal-Peor, Yehovah your God has destroyed them from among you. 4 But you that did cleave (daveq) to Yehovah your God alive every one of you this day.
Moshe discusses an event that is probably still fresh in the minds of the people, Baal-Peor. All those that followed after Baal-Peor were destroyed. Those that cleaved after Yehovah are alive to this day. This is a basic concept of our faith, Devarim 30:19-20.
19 I call heaven and land to record this day against you, I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing. Therefore choose life, that both you and your seed may live. 20 That you may love Yehovah your Redeemer, that you may obey His voice, and that you may cleave (davaq) to Him. For He your life, and the length of your days. That you may dwell in the land which Yehovah swore to your fathers, to Avraham, to Yitzchaq, and to Yaaqov, to give them.
It is in cleaving to Yehovah that we find life. There are those that follow after Yehovah that never quite find what they are looking for. It is as when we hang on as a child on the back of our Father, we find security and direction in this life. The tighter we hold, the smoother the ride.
The difference between the one that followed after Baal-Peor and one that cleaves, is the difference between one who commits harlotry and one who never considers it. They never consider harlotry because they hold so tightly onto Yehovah with all their might that they have no time to take their eyes off of Yehovah. Nothing else ever comes into focus. They have walked so far from the harlot that it is a lost memory forever. They move towards the sun with ever increasing determination and focus.
Wisdom and Understanding
Wisdom and Understanding
Devarim 4:5
5 Behold, I have taught you statutes and judgments, even as Yehovah my God commanded me, that you should do so in the land whither you go to possess it.
One of Moshe’s duties was to teach the Children of Yisrael statues and judgments. This was more than just relaying information. When all we do is relay information, it merely becomes head knowledge. It is merely something that is known as opposed to something that is understood. To know something does not necessarily mean that one understands how to apply it.
One can be taught the various movements for sword fighting, but that does not necessarily make them a skilled swordsman. When Moshe taught statutes and judgments, it was far beyond head knowledge. It was for application for the heart condition.
Devarim 4:6
6 Keep therefore and do; for this your wisdom and your understanding in the sight of the nations, which shall hear all these statutes, and say, Surely this great nation a wise and understanding people.
Moshe was to teach the statutes and judgments so they would understand how to apply them in everyday life. Torah is similar to a two edged sword, Hebrews 4:12.
12 For the word (logos) of God alive (zao), and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.
Alive (formerly quick) is the Greek word ζάω zao (G2198). It is in the Bible 143 times. ζάω zao (G2198) is translated live 117 times, be alive 9 times, alive 6 times, quick 4 times, lively 3 times, not translated 1 time, 2 miscellaneous words and variation of live 1 time. It is a primary verb. It means to live, literally or figuratively. It should always be translated a form of live or alive.
Powerful is the Greek word ἐνεργής energes (G1756). It is in the Bible 3 times. ἐνεργής energes (G1756) is translated effectual 2 times and powerful 1 time. It refers to active, operative. It is an active thing occurring.
The word of God is something that gives life and energy to an individual when properly applied. Along with this, we need to remember that it is similar to a two edged sword. Just as it can give life and energy to an individual, it can take life and energy from an individual.
Moshe taught them not just how to keep Torah, but how to use it in their favor. Torah gives us life, protection and prosperity. For that to happen, one must properly apply it.
Others Will Hear
Others Will Hear
Devarim 4:6
6 Keep therefore and do; for this your wisdom and your understanding in the sight of the nations, which shall hear all these statutes, and say, Surely this great nation a wise and understanding people.
Not only were we to observe Torah, we were not to hide Torah. It should be clear to others that we are different when we properly apply Torah. Others should see how Torah made us a great nation.
For years, Torah had bonded the Yehudim as a people. Although we were scatter through out the nations, we were a nation among nations. It has made us uniquely different from all other people. We are the only nation that has a book from God.
Although others claim an association, none follow nor know its contents as well. It is said of Yisrael in Tehilla 147:19-20.
19 He shows His word to Yaaqov, His statutes and His judgments to Yisrael. 20 He has not dealt so with any nation. And judgments, they have not known them. HalleluYah.
No other nation was given Torah and the understanding. This was exclusively given to Yisrael His people.
However, few have looked at the Yehudim and have seen them as a great nation, a wise and understanding people. Mainly because we have failed to totally fulfill the words of Torah ourselves. This includes physical Yisrael and spiritual Yisrael. There have been a few generations that have wholeheartedly followed Torah. However, during the 3500 years of the existence of the people that is few and far between.
Today Christians affirm the Torah as the first five books of the Bible. They claim it is the foundation of their faith. However, they also claim that they are freed from following Torah today. Although Yeshua and His disciples would state otherwise, it has not stopped the vast majority of those that claim His name to disregard following Torah.
Yeshua stated in Yochanan 5:46-47.
46 For had you believed Moshe, you would have believed Me. For he wrote of Me. 47 But if you believe not his writings, how shall you believe My words?
Yochanan the beloved Apostle wrote in 2 Yochanan 6.
6 And this is love, that we walk after His commandments. This is the commandment, that, as you have heard from the beginning, you should walk in it.
Paul told his son in the faith in 2 Timothy 3:15-17.
15 And that from a child you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise to salvation through faith which is in Yeshua Messiah. 16 All Scripture given by inspiration of God, and profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness. 17 That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished to all good works.
The only Scriptures that Timothy knew as a child were the first 39 Books of the modern Christian Bible. There was no New Testament in Timothy’s days.
May be it is time Christians rethink their stance on Torah and the 34 books that follow. The world will never see Christianity as a unified people until they start to be unified in their approach to God. Today, there are so many different denominations of Christianity all vying to be heard, it is hard to determine what defines a Christian. From an outsiders point of view, it is a mixed bag.
From God’s point of view, nothing has changed. However, there is a small remnant that is starting to return to it’s roots. They have answered the call of Revelation 18:4.
4 And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, My people, that you be not partakers of her sins, and that you receive not of her plagues.
There are those that are no longer willing to follow the doctrine of an apostate faith. Nor are they willing to follow the doctrine of those that were an out growth of the apostate faith. Although many claim to be different than the apostate faith, they still follow many of the doctrines of the larger apostate church. Those that reject these have also answered the call of Nachum 1:15.
15 Behold upon the mountains the feet of Him that brings good tidings, that publishes peace. Yehuda, keep your feasts (hag), perform your vows. For the belial shall no more pass through you; he is utterly cut off.
These are returning to the Feasts that Yehovah established in Scriptures. They are no longer just following the crowd to do what Scriptures consider evil. They are looking deep and following after Shemos 23:2.
2 You shall not follow a multitude to evil; neither shall you speak in a cause to decline after many to pervert justice.
They have found a doctrine in the Bible so different than others, it is the doctrine of Acts 2:42.
42 And they continued steadfastly in the Apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.
There is what is known as Apostles’ Doctrine. It is what is found in the Bible. It is far different than what many follow today who profess to be followers of Messiah. It is what binds the remnant of today. These are the people who stand with Yeshua against all odds, they are those of Revelation 17:14.
14 These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them. For He is Lord of lords, and King of kings and they that are with Him called, and chosen, and faithful.
There is a group that is called of Yeshua. They are chosen out of the many and are the few that are faithful to the end. These are the ones that will eventually rule and reign with Messiah in the Millennium. These are the few. They will be the ones that will provoke others to zealousness in the future. When others see that they are a great nation, a wise and understanding people.
Devarim 4:7
7 For what nation great, who God nigh to them, as Yehovah our God in all we call upon Him?
These are the people who call upon God and He answers them. These are the ones of 1 Yochanan 5:14-15.
14 And this is the confidence that we have in Him, that, if we ask any thing according to His will, He hears us. 15 And if we know that He hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of Him.
Their confidence is in God, because they only ask what is within His will. They know His will because they live His will and purposes. They are able to live His will and purposes because they have proven His will and purposes through Romans 12:1-2.
1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, your reasonable service. 2 And be not conformed to this world. But be you transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what that good, and acceptable, and complete (teleios), will of God.
They have proven the good, acceptable and complete will by going through the Fires of Baptism continuously. These are the ones that have not given up. These are those that have continuously been refined through the fires. These are the ones that many will look at and say, this is a great nation who calls upon their God and He answers them in power.
Devarim 4:8
8 And what nation great, that has statutes and judgments righteous as all this Torah, which I set before you this day?
These are the people who it will be said followed the Torah of Yehovah. These are the ones that kept the statutes and judgments of Yehovah, the righteous requirement. These are the people that Yehovah will set before the nations to teach Torah to others. So that others will know the great and awesome God and His Nation that followed in His ways only.
Teach Sons & Sons’ Son
Teach Sons & Sons’ Son
Devarim 4:9
9 Only take heed to yourself, and keep your soul diligently, lest you forget the things which your eyes have seen, and lest they depart from your heart all the days of your life. But teach them your sons, and your sons’ sons;
As a people, the Children of Yisrael were to diligently remember all Yehovah had done for them. Many had seen with their own eyes the power of Yehovah in reality. This was something that they should never let depart from their hearts. If Yehovah had moved once, that should be sufficient for following Him forever. What more proof did anyone need than this. In reality, He had moved in power for the Children of Yisrael far too many times to count. He had always been there when they had drifted away and then returned. He kept His word and then some.
The Children of Yisrael were to teach this to their children. As He has done, He will always do and more. Once we are His people, we are His people for ever. This is something we should always keep in remembrance. If we forget His deliverance, we will soon forget we are His people. If we forget we are His people, we will soon be like others. We will follow their ways and be assimilated into their people. We must continue in our uniqueness as a people. We do not do things in accordance to their understanding of us. We do as we are taught and speak as the people of God full of faith and righteousness.
As a people, Christians are to forever remember what Yehovah has done for them. However, if He has done little for you; there is little to speak of. That ultimately is our fault. He tells us in Yirmeyahu 29:10-11.
10 For thus says Yehovah, That after seventy years be accomplished at Bavel I will visit you, and perform My good word toward you, in causing you to return to this place. 11 For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says Yehovah, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.
For this to happen, we must return from Bavel in total. We must answer the call that we are His people and leave spiritual harlotry behind. We must commit to never return. We must set our eyes on heavenly Yerushalayim above. Then we must fulfill Yirmeyahu 29:12-14.
12 Then you shall call upon Me, and you shall go and pray to Me, and I will hearken to you. 13 And you shall seek Me, and find, when you shall search for Me with all your heart. 14 And I will be found of you, says Yehovah. And I will turn away your captivity, and I will gather you from all the nations, and from all the places whither I have driven you, says Yehovah; and I will bring you again into the place whence I caused you to be carried away captive.
After we leave Bavel, we must then seek Yehovah with all our heart. It must be our strongest desire. When we do this, He will be found of us. We must do this and teach our children and our children’s children to do this. Our testimony is to be the Testimony of Yeshua, Revelation 19:10.
10 And I fell at his feet to worship him. And he said to me, See not, I am your fellow servant, and of your brethren that have the testimony of Yeshua. Worship God, for the testimony of Yeshua is the spirit of prophecy.
If we are to testify of Yeshua, we are to have the Spirit of Prophecy. We too must see His wonders and miracles in our lives. It is a promise to all believers, Hebrews 2:3-4.
3 How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed to us by them that heard; 4 God also bearing witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers miracles, and gifts of the Holy Spirit, according to His own will?
We too are to have a present witness in our own lives. Just as the Children of Yisrael saw His power, we too should see His power flowing through our lives. If not, we must ask ourselves, have we left Bavel, spiritual harlotry behind? Are we diligently seeking Him with all our heart? If we do, He promises in His Word He will answer us with power.
We must have a witness and teach our children and children’s children to follow Him with all their heart. If not, we must question if we love our children and children’s children as He loves us?
And we are to teach every generation that follows that we are the people of Yehovah. We are not like the world, we follow Yehovah’s commandments with all our heart and all our soul. We are told in Mishlei 13:22.
22 A good leaves an inheritance to his children’s children. And the wealth of the sinner laid up for the righteous (tsaddiyq).
The inheritance we are to leave to our children as well as our children’s children is a life of righteousness. We are to demonstrate through our lives a following of Yehovah in all ways. We are to teach them the path they should go to the Father that will never leave nor forsake them. All the riches they will ever need is laid up in heaven for them through a life of righteousness.
Moshe our Teacher
Moshe our Teacher
Devarim 4:10
10 the day that you stood before Yehovah your God in Chorev, when Yehovah said to me, Gather me the people together, and I will make them hear My words, that they may learn to fear Me all the days that they shall live upon the earth (adamah), and they may teach their children.
This is referring to what happened at Mount Sinay. This is an experience that no other nation on earth has experienced. Yehovah spoke to over three million people at one time. Prior to speaking to them, Yehovah called Moshe up to the mountain and told him in Shemos 19:4-6.
4 You have seen what I did to the Mitzrayim and I bare you on eagles’ wings, and brought you to Myself. 5 Now therefore, if you will obey My voice indeed, and keep My covenant, then you shall be a peculiar treasure to Me above all people. For all the lands Mine. 6 And you shall be to Me a kingdom of priests, and a holy nation. These the words which you shall speak to the Children of Yisrael.
Yehovah told Moshe to declare to the people what Yehovah had done for them. Moshe was to tell the people if they would obey His voice and keep the covenant, they would be a treasure to Him above all the people. They would then be a Kingdom of Priests and a Holy Nation.
Moshe came down from the mountain and told all these words to the people. They responded in Shemos 19:8.
8 And all the people answered together, and said, All that Yehovah has spoken we will do. And Moshe returned the words of the people to Yehovah.
This set the stage for what was about to happen. They had validated their agreement to the covenant. We do a similar thing when we accept salvation, 2 Thessalonians 2:13.
13 But we are bound to give thanks always to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God has from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth.
When God sanctifies our spirit and we believe the truth, we too have accepted the covenant that we are His people and have come into a covenant relationship with Him. We now operate under different rules than the rest of the world. This is something we can never forget. It is also something we can never escape. As the Children of Yisrael became His people that day at Chorev, we too were there. We are told in Devarim 29:14-15.
14 Neither with you only do I make this covenant and this oath; 15 but with that stands here with us this day before Yehovah our Redeemer, and also with that not here with us this day.
Those not there were those of the future covenant of new birth. It is the inescapable truth of salvation. It should never be taken lightly. He does not, neither should we.
Then God tells Moshe something that would be eternal, Shemos 19:9.
9 And Yehovah said to Moshe, Behold (hinneh), I come to you in a thick cloud, that the people may hear when I speak with you, and believe you for ever. And Moshe told the words of the people to Yehovah.
The people were to believe Moshe forever. Torah was to be the foundation of our faith as a people. Yeshua also made this clear in Yochanan 5:46-47.
46 For had you believed Moshe, you would have believed Me. For he wrote of Me. 47 But if you believe not his writings, how shall you believe My words?
Belief in Moshe is essential to belief in Yeshua. It is an inescapable truth of our faith. We must not waiver on this. It is Moshe’s words we are to follow and understand in the newness of the Spirit, not some Rabbi’s or other Christian teacher. We must return to our roots if we are to find Him.
Witness of Mount Chorev
Witness of Mount Chorev
Devarim 4:11
11 And you came near and stood under the mountain; and the mountain burned with fire to the midst of heaven, with darkness, clouds, and thick darkness.
The people were to sanctify themselves, wash their clothes, come not at their wives and be ready the third day. Moshe was to set boundaries to protect the people. Then on the third day, Shemos 19:16.
16 And it came to pass on the third day in the morning, that there were voices (qol) and lightnings, and a thick (kaved) cloud upon the mount, and the voice of the shofar exceeding strong (chazaq); so that all the people that in the camp trembled.
They heard the voices from above. The shofar called them to assemble before Yehovah. Moshe brought the people out of the camp to meet God. They saw and heard in Shemos 19:18-19.
18 And mount Sinay was altogether on a smoke, because Yehovah descended upon it in fire. And the smoke thereof ascended as the smoke of a furnace, and the whole mount quaked greatly. 19 And when the voice of the shofar sounded long, and waxed louder and louder, Moshe spoke, and God answered him by a voice.
They saw the mountain smoke as Yehovah came down in fire towards the people. Yehovah called Moshe and they spoke. Again Yehovah told Moshe not to let the people cross the boundary. Later Moshe and Aharon would come back up the mountain. The people heard Yehovah.
Devarim 4:12
12 And Yehovah spoke to you out of the midst of the fire. You heard the voice of the words, but saw no similitude; only a voice.
They heard, but they saw nothing. This seems to be one of the most difficult things for people. It is difficult for people to deal with the unseen. Many seem to need to hold onto an image or they will fade away.
Devarim 4:13
13 And He declared to you His covenant, which He commanded you to perform, Ten Words (davar); and He wrote them upon two tables of stone.
That day in Chorev, Yehovah declared the 10 Words. These are reiterated in Devarim 5 and will not be discussed in detail in this discussion. Yehovah wrote these on two tables of stone that He eventually gave to Moshe. Moshe would have to return for a second set after he broke the first set. This occurred after Moshe saw the abomination of the Children of Yisrael in the sin of the Golden Calf.
Fire was the Witness of Chorev. Both the First Generation and a majority of the Second Generation were present for this. This is to be a reality of our faith. This is something that is to be held in our hearts for all times. It is an expression of God that cannot be denied. It was something that many of the Second Generation out of Mitzrayim experienced.
In our faith today, many of us have experienced singular moves of God. Some of us have experienced a move of God in a body of believers. There is coming a time when we will all see the Witness for ourselves, Revelation 1:7.
7 Behold, He comes with clouds; and every eye shall see Him, and they which pierced him. And all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of Him. Even so, Amen.
When He returns, all will see the God of Creation. This is from Zekharya 12:10.
10 And I will pour upon the house of Daviyd, and upon the inhabitants of Yerushalayim, the spirit of grace and of supplications. And they shall look upon Me whom they have pierced, and they shall mourn for Him, as one mourns for only son, and shall be in bitterness for Him, as one that is in bitterness for firstborn.
When He returns, those of us that have a reality in our hearts will see a greater reality. It will be a great time of rejoicing for all believers and non-believers alike. It will be a time of mourning and intercession. Many will see the true greatness of our God. It will be the beginning of fulfilling Malakhi 4:6.
6 And He shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers, lest I come and smite the land with Yehovah’s Judgment (cherem).
No Visible Image
No Visible Image
Devarim 4:14
14 And Yehovah commanded me at that time to teach you statutes and judgments, that you might do them in the land whither you go over to possess it.
Again the command to teach statutes and judgments. This will be repeated often, because it is a continuous part of all our lives. We are either being taught or teaching. Sometimes we experience both when we interact with others. It is a necessary part of our lives that makes us what we are. We must be willing to be taught as much as we are willing to teach. With each breath we take, it should be our desire to be taught until we breath our last.
That is why the Great Commission is Matityahu 28:18-20.
18 And Yeshua came and spoke to them, saying, All power is given to Me in heaven and in earth. 19 Go therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. 20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you. And, lo, I am with you always, to the end of the age (aion). Amen.
We are to teach the good news of repentance. Baptize them in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Because this covers a variety of baptisms, we continue to teach to observe all things. In the process of teaching and being taught, one will experience the various baptisms in their walk to spiritual completeness. Without proper teaching, one is lost. Remember we do this in His power and the teachings become much more effective.
Devarim 4:15
15 Take you therefore good heed to yourselves; for you saw no manner of similitude on the day Yehovah spoke to you in Chorev out of the midst of the fire.
Moshe describes literally what the Children of Yisrael physically experienced that day. They saw fire and heard a voice come out of the fire. They saw nothing more with their eyes. However, what they saw with their heart; only they may know.
Moshe tells them to take heed of what they saw. This was a warning as will be explained next. It is something we need to take a hold of today. Our understanding why is not as important as our compliance to this one issue.
Devarim 4:16-18
16 Lest you destroy (shachat) and make you a graven image, the similitude of any figure, the likeness of male or female, 17 The likeness of any beast that on the land, the likeness of any winged fowl that flies in the air, 18 the likeness of any thing that creeps on the earth (adamah), the likeness of any fish that is in the waters beneath the land.
We are never to make an image of God, Yehovah. Moshe includes images of men, women, beasts, birds, creeping things and fish. We are never to have any image of God in any form. It is part of the Second Word, Shemos 20:3-6.
3 You shall have no other redeemers before Me. 4 You shall not make to you any graven image, or any likeness that in heaven above, or that in the land beneath, or that in the water under the land. 5 You shall not bow down yourself to them, nor serve them. For I Yehovah your Redeemer a jealous God (el), visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children to the third and fourth of them that hate Me; 6 And showing mercy to thousands of them that love Me, and keep My commandments.
One would think this would be simple enough. Moshe warns that it will destroy us. He goes on to state in Devarim 4:19.
19 And lest you lift up your eyes to heaven, and when you see the sun, and the moon, and the stars, even all the host of heaven, shouldest be driven to worship them, and serve them, which Yehovah your God has divided to all nations under the whole heaven.
Moshe warns us that if we have these images, we will be drawn to them. We will worship them rather than the invisible God. It is hard to explain the importance of the invisible God until one comes into the understanding. This is basic to our faith. If we would obey first, in time understanding would come.
To think that a mere image on earth could capture the limitlessness of the God of all creation is preposterous by any man’s standard. However, to this day; Christians throughout the world violate this commandment. This includes Catholic and Protestant alike. Today Christians have fulfilled the negative side of Romans 1:21-25.
21 Because that, when they knew God, they glorified not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. 22 Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, 23 and changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and four-footed beasts, and creeping things. 24 Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonor their own bodies between themselves. 25 Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen.
Although many Christians would take offense to this. Many of those same have pictures of the Savior in the their houses. They have Bibles with pictures. Protestant churches across the world proudly hang pictures of Jesus. Come Christmas time they place a figure of a baby in a manager scene honoring His birth. These are direct violation of the Second Word and will not be tolerated by God in the future. When He returns these will be at the top of the list for the fires of dead works.
We do not have to fully comprehend to fully comply. While we are at it, we should forbid even an image in our minds. Failure to comply with this command will lead to the destruction of our souls. If not taken serious, it can lead to the eventual destruction of our life on earth.
Sanctified Nation
Sanctified Nation
Devarim 4:19
19 And lest you lift up your eyes to heaven, and when you see the sun, and the moon, and the stars, even all the host of heaven, shouldest be driven to worship them, and serve them, which Yehovah your God has divided to all nations under the whole heaven.
The concept of no image divides us from all other nations. We as a people do not keep an image of God in any form. We must rid our minds of such imaginations.
Devarim 4:20
20 But Yehovah has taken you, and brought you forth out of the iron furnace, out of Mitzrayim, to be to Him a people of inheritance, as this day.
Yehovah took us out of a nation to be a nation. He equates Mitzrayim to an iron furnace. We were being fried alive in pain and suffering. He had freed us to be a nation of priests. We need to answer that call. We need to answer it for ourselves, our children and all those we come in contact with. We can no longer be lackadaisical in our approach to God. We must realize that we are to be different.
We can only be the inheritance when we realize we are to be different and walk in that difference. The difference we are to walk in is righteousness. We cannot be a nation of priests until we are a nation of righteous individuals that flow together as a body in the power of Yehovah.
Our Sake
Our Sake
Devarim 4:21
21 Furthermore Yehovah was angry with me for your sakes, and swore that I should not go over Yarden, and that I should not go in to that good land, which Yehovah your Redeemer gives you an inheritance.
This was discussed in Devarim 3:23-26.
23 And I besought Yehovah at that time, saying, 24 Lord Yehovah, You have begun to show Your servant Your greatness, and Your mighty hand. For what God (el) in heaven or in land, that can do according to Your works, and according to Your might? 25 I pray You, let me go over, and see the good land that beyond Yarden, that goodly mountain, and Levanon. 26 But Yehovah was wroth with me for your sakes, and would not hear me. And Yehovah said to me, Let it suffice you; speak no more to Me of this matter.
Presently, Moshe is not requesting to go over nor is he bringing up the situation before Yehovah. He is reminding the Children of Yisrael that he had crossed a line with Yehovah. He is warning them that they should not do the same. As righteous as Moshe had been, there were things he should have never done. The same remain true for us, 1 Yochanan 5:16.
16 If any man see his brother sin a sin not to death, he shall ask, and he shall give him life for them that sin not to death. There is a sin to death. I do not say that he shall pray for it.
There is a limit for all of us. As we mature, the price of our sin becomes more expensive. Our sins start to show up in our children in a more extensive way. We cannot continue in unrighteousness forever, He will judge us appropriately.
Devarim 4:22
22 But I must die in this land, I must not go over Yarden, but you shall go over, and possess that good land.
There comes a point in time that we must lose ourselves in Him if we are to be of use for Him. We can never place our desire and needs above the Kingdom or raising up those around us. We must learn to go to Him for all we need. We must never place ourselves above others. We must learn the lesson of Luke 12:47-48.
47 And that servant, which knew his lord’s will, and prepared not, neither did according to his will, shall be beaten with many. 48 But he that knew not, and did commit things worthy of stripes, shall be beaten with few. For to whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more.
What we are given, we are expected to grow into a productive tree for the Kingdom of God. We are to use what we have to benefit His purposes in us and others so that righteousness reigns throughout the land. We should never take lightly what we are given. It is to the benefit of others that we do this work.
In Times to Come
In Times to Come
Devarim 4:23
23 Take heed to yourselves, lest you forget the covenant of Yehovah your God, which He made with you, and make you a graven image, the likeness of any, which Yehovah your God has forbidden you.
One may get tired of the repetition; however, one never tires of the blessings that come from repetition. Moshe is warning them not to forget. After all that has happened, the ten plagues, 40 years in the wilderness and all the miracles, one should keep this in remembrance in the forefront of their mind, Yehoshua 24:31.
31 And Yisrael served Yehovah all the days of Yehoshua, and all the days of the elders that overlived Yehoshua, and which had known all the works of Yehovah, that he had done for Yisrael.
There was a Third Generation that followed after Yehovah; however, there was not a fourth in succession. In the future, there will be a Third Generation in the Millenium. Together all three will cross into Eternity.
Devarim 4:24
24 For Yehovah your God a consuming fire, a zealous (qanna) God.
A reminder of who Yehovah is. He is a consuming fire because righteousness will not allow sin in its presence, Chavaqquq 1:13.
13 Of purer eyes than to behold evil, and can not look on iniquity. Wherefore lookest You upon them that deal treacherously, holdest your tongue when the wicked devours more righteous than he?
This time is coming to an end. As the fire came down on Mount Chorev, the fire will come forth from His armies from Mount Tziyyon, Yoel 2:4-6.
5 Like the noise of chariots on the tops of mountains shall they leap, like the noise of a flame of fire that devours the stubble, as a strong people set in battle array.
He is a zealous God who is awaiting the return of His people, Luke 15:20.
20 And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.
He will meet them in righteousness and compassion. We need to hold tightly onto this. We must never forget who we serve. Unfortunately, too often we do.
Devarim 4:25
25 When you shall beget children, and children’s children, and you shall have remained long in the land, and shall destroy (shachat), and make a graven image, the likeness of any and shall do evil in the sight of Yehovah your God, to provoke Him to anger.
It is always a problem for humans. When life goes bad, they call out for help. When their help comes from Yehovah, they make all sorts of promises. Promises they soon forget when thing start to go well. We must never forget. Although warned, we often seem not to remember until we are in a constant state of suffering or we have matured beyond ourselves and set our eyes on complete righteousness. The latter is the exception. In most situations, a little relief from the world often takes us to the right or left off the pathways of righteousness. Then slowly over time, we drift to the ways that satisfy us the fastest, but demand more carnality of us. If we continue on this path, it will destroy us and those around us. If we do not learn, much worse than we could imagine will occur.
Second Exile
Second Exile
Devarim 4:26
26 I call heaven and earth to witness against you this day, that you shall soon utterly perish from off the land whereto you go over Yarden to possess it; you shall not prolong days upon it, but shall utterly be destroyed.
Moshe did not say this to scare the people, it was a warning. Unfortunately, it was a warning that later generations neglected. Although there were those who recalled the warning, far too many scoffed at the possibility.
As believers today, never be lulled into a false sense of security. Just as Moshe was held back from the land, Yehovah would remove us from the land. Peter warns us of our impending judgment in 1 Peter 4:17.
17 For the time that judgment (krima) must begin at the house of God. And if first at us, what shall the end of them that obey not the gospel of God?
God will always bring judgment against His people first. Do not confuse deliverance from judgment. God will deliver us from our enemies to serve His purposes. However, if we fail to judge ourselves appropriately, He will bring forth judgment. Paul warns in 1 Corinthians 11:30-32.
30 For this cause many weak and sickly among you, and many sleep. 31 For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged. 32 But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we should not be condemned with the world.
Deliverance comes in the beginning, judgment will come several times before the next deliverance. If we stay in the way, deliverance is unnecessary and blessing come forth.
If we are to prolong our days and our Children’s days, we must pursue the walk of righteousness. Yehovah has no interest in His land being polluted by a rebellious and defiled group of people. He will only tolerate this for so long.
Devarim 4:27
27 And Yehovah shall scatter you among the nations, and you shall be left few in number among the heathen, whither Yehovah shall lead you.
Our punishment will be the scattering among nations. This was not what occurred in the First Exile. In 590 BC, the Children of Yisrael were exiled into Bavel. The scattering into all nations occurred in the Second Exile of 70 AD. That ended 1900 years later when Yisrael became a nation. We as a people were spread throughout the various nations into small communities. We almost lost our identities. To many, we became the filth of the earth.
Devarim 4:28
28 And there you shall serve gods, the work of men’s hands, wood and stone, which neither see, nor hear, nor eat, nor smell.
In all the lands we settled, we were never allowed to own land. We could work the land but not own the land. We could settle for a while until they would expel us. In many cases, they attempted to annihilate us. Each time they sent us from the land, they took our wealth from us to serve their strange gods. They used our wealth to fight their wars and did what ever they desired to us as a people. It seemed almost hopeless at times. But with Yehovah there is always hope.
There is Always Hope
There is Always Hope
Devarim 4:29
29 But if from thence you shall seek Yehovah your Redeemer, you shall find, if you seek Him with all your heart and with all your soul.
No matter how dark it may seem, there is always a way out of our troubles. We need to turn to Yehovah and seek Him with all our heart and all our soul. Within this solution is the reason why we have problems. We have turned from Yehovah.
Through life, there will be problems. There is never the promise of a trouble free life. However, we can significantly reduce the occurrences, if we are always turned towards Yehovah with all our heart and all our soul. The unfortunate thing for us, we have a tendency to draw back from our pursuit of Yehovah. Realistically, it is a difficult pursuit. Not because He makes it difficult, but because we have a tendency to let life change our focus and we just drift away. It takes a constant focus on Yehovah to overcome the plights of life. We have to ask ourselves every time we lose focus, what benefit did we really receive? In almost every case, it was a self-serving benefit that ultimately did not benefit us.
In Yirmeyahu 29, He tells us a similar answer. We are to turn to Yehovah and seek Him with all our heart and soul. The prophet Azaryahu told Asa the same in 2 Divre Hayyamim 15:3-4.
2 And he went out to meet Asa, and said to him, Hear me, Asa, and all Yehuda and Binyamin; Yehovah with you, while you be with Him; and if you seek Him, He will be found of you; but if you forsake Him, He will forsake you. 3 Now for a long season Yisrael without the true Redeemer, and without a teaching (yarah) priest, and without Torah. 4 But when they in their trouble did turn to Yehovah Redeemer of Yisrael, and sought Him, He was found of them.
It is always the same answer. If we are with Him, He is for us. This is probably why Paul exhort us in 1 Thessalonians 5:14-24.
14 Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all. 15 See that none render evil for evil to any; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all. 16 Rejoice evermore. 17 Pray without ceasing. 18 In every thing give thanks. For this is the will of God in Messiah Yeshua concerning you. 19 Quench not the Spirit. 20 Despise not prophesyings. 21 Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. 22 Abstain from all appearance of evil. 23 And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless to the coming of our Lord Yeshua Messiah. 24 Faithful He that calls you, who also will do.
One must understand that we are to exhort each other to continue in the faith. It is the consistent and constant pursuer that finds God and cleaves to Him. Once He is found of us, we must never let go. The answer is the same for all of us, pursue Yehovah with all our heart and soul. Find a body that pursues Him with all their heart and soul, 1 Thessalonians 5:11-13.
11 Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also you do. 12 And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labor among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you; 13 and to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. Be at peace among yourselves.
It will be practically impossible to consistently pursue Yehovah outside a body of believers that are pursuing Yehovah. On our own, we will be overcome and fade away. We must find that body, who together pursues Yehovah with all their heart and all their soul. That is our ultimate answer.
Devarim 4:30
30 When you are in tribulation, and all these things are come upon you, in the latter days, if you turn to Yehovah your Redeemer, and shall be obedient to his voice;
When we pursue Him, we must listen to His voice and be obedient to that voice. We must continue to transform into His ways. If we would do these things, we would find that He looks for our return. He desires good for us, when we return to Him in a repented state.
Devarim 4:31
31 For Yehovah your Redeemer a merciful God (el); He will not forsake you, neither destroy you, nor forget the covenant of your fathers which He swore to them.
It is His mercy that enables our return. He is compassionate towards us when we fulfill the covenant. In all this, never take Him lightly.
Once you are secure in Him, know that return becomes more difficult with each departure. The obligation to remain in constant communion is on us. With each time of continuous and constant pursuit, He is within our grasp much easier.
Never Before Never Again
Never Before Never Again
Devarim 4:32-33
32 For ask now of the days that are past, which were before you, since the day that Redeemer created man (adam) upon the land, and from the one side of heaven to the other, whether there has been as this great word (davar), or has been heard like it? 33 Did people hear the voice of Redeemer speaking out of the midst of the fire, as you have heard, and live?
Moshe asks the Children of Yisrael a question and it is a question for every generation that follows. The answer to the question is no. It was no then and it will be no forever. Never was there or will there be another nation that heard the voice of Yehovah out of the fire.
This is singular proof for Scriptures. Moshe makes a statement that has held for over 3500 years. How did Moshe know this would be true?
We know it is true, because there was never a dispute by any of those present. There were easily over 2.5 million people present at Sinay. Surely if this did not occur, one would have said. The odds of all agreeing to something that did not happen is phenomenal. There is not a single rumor that any of those present deny the occurrence of Yehovah speaking from the fire. There was plenty of opportunity to dispute this by those present, but there is not a word.
Think what you want, but be forewarned. He is returning for His people and He is coming with fire to cleanse the earth. There will be an opportunity for all, but why wait?
Devarim 4:34
34 Or has Redeemer assayed to go take Him a nation from the midst of nation, by temptations, by signs, and by wonders, and by war, and by a mighty hand, and by a stretched out arm, and by great terrors, according to all that Yehovah your Redeemer did for you in Mitzrayim before your eyes?
Never was there a nation taken from the midst of a nation with signs and wonders. It never happened before and it has never happened in the 3500 years since. It is time to acknowledge the authenticity of Scriptures.
But why would He do this?
Devarim 4:35
35 To you it was showed, that you might know that Yehovah He Redeemer; none else beside Him.
Yehovah did this to prove once and for all that Yehovah is our Redeemer. There is none else nor will there ever be, Yeshayahu 44:6.
6 Thus says Yehovah the King of Yisrael, and His redeemer Yehovah of hosts; I the first, and I the last; and beside Me no Redeemer.
There is no other. There never was and there never will be. Many seem to dispute this. They will find out soon that they were not wise.
We do not worry about them. They are merely a distraction. Our only hope and salvation is Yehovah, Yeshayahu 43:10.
10 You My witnesses, says Yehovah, and My servant whom I have chosen. That you may know and believe Me, and understand that I He. Before Me there was no God (el) formed, neither shall there be after Me.
Yehovah is the only God. It is time to abandon all other thoughts contrary. There is only Yehovah and no other. It is time to be His witness of these things.
Devarim 4:36-37
36 Out of heaven He made you to hear His voice, that He might instruct you. And upon land He showed you His great fire; and you heard His words out of the midst of the fire. 37 And because He loved your fathers, therefore He chose their seed after them, and brought you out in His sight with His mighty power out of Mitzrayim; 38 to drive out nations from before you greater and mightier than you, to bring you in, to give you their land an inheritance, as this day.
Today and everyday is the day to understand this. We have done nothing right to deserve this except be the descendants of the fathers who He chose. There will never be another way.
Today, many fantasize of other ways. These will evaporate shortly. There is only one way and there is truly only one covenant. All covenants feed into the covenant of being His people who obey His Word and voice.
Consider In Your Heart
Consider In Your Heart
Devarim 4:39
39 Know therefore this day, and consider in your heart, that Yehovah He Redeemer in heaven above, and upon the land beneath, none else.
After all that has been stated, Moshe tells all who walk the face of the earth consider in your heart. We must carefully consider what has been said. We need to listen to Moshe over all others. This is what Yeshua told us in Yochanan 5:46-47.
46 For had you believed Moshe, you would have believed Me. For he wrote of Me. 47 But if you believe not his writings, how shall you believe My words?
When you realize that Yeshua is vitally connected to Moshe, then consider what is next and the seriousness of it.
Devarim 4:40
40 You shall keep therefore His statutes, and His commandments, which I command you this day, that it may go well with you, and with your children after you, and that you may prolong days upon the earth (adamah), which Yehovah your Redeemer gives you, for ever.
It is time to keep all statutes and commandments as they were meant in the newness of the Spirit. We are to teach our children not with just words, but with our lives.
If we would do this, it would go well with us and our children. We would prolong our days. Remember Yochanan’s words in 2 Yochanan 6.
6 And this is love, that we walk after His commandments. This is the commandment, that, as you have heard from the beginning, you should walk in it.
Do not tell me you love others if you do not walk after His commandments. Love with out the commandments is selfish and is not love at all.
Only through a constant meditation and walking in Torah will you produce a true love that will flow from the heart.
Eastern Cities of Refuge
Eastern Cities of Refuge
Devarim 4:41-42
41 Then Moshe severed three cities on this side Yarden toward the sunrising; 42 That the slayer might flee thither, which should kill his neighbor unawares, and hated him not in times past; and that fleeing to one of these cities he might live.
The command to establish Cities of Refuge were first in Bemidbar 35:6.
6 And among the cities which you shall give to the Levites six cities for refuge, which you shall appoint for the manslayer, that he may flee thither. And to them you shall add forty and two cities.
There were to be 3 east of the Yarden River and 3 west of the Yarden River. Moshe established the 3 east of the Yarden River.
Devarim 4:43
43 Betzer in the wilderness, in the plain country, of the Reuveni; and Ramot in Gilad, of the Gadi; and Golan in Bashan, of the Menashshi.
Moshe established 3 Cities of Refuge on the eastern side of the Yarden River.
|
Cities of Refuge |
Family |
Class |
Tribe |
|
Golan |
Gershon |
Levite |
Menashsheh (east -Bashan) |
|
Betzer |
Merari |
Levite |
Reuven |
|
Ramot in Gilad |
Merari |
Levite |
Gad |
Yehoshua will establish 3 Cities of Refuge on the western side of the Yarden River in Yehoshua 20.
|
Cities of Refuge |
Family |
Class |
Tribe |
|
Chevron |
Aharon |
Priest |
Yehudah, Shimon |
|
Shekhem |
Qehat |
Levite |
Ephraim |
|
Qedesh |
Gershon |
Levite |
Naftali |
Torah Set Before Our Eyes
Torah Set Before Our Eyes
Devarim 4:44-45
44 And this the Torah which Moshe set before the Children of Yisrael. 45 These the testimonies, and the statutes, and the judgments, which Moshe spoke to the Children of Yisrael, after they came forth out of Mitzrayim,
All that was said was preparatory for what Moshe is about to declare, he will declare the Torah before the Second Generation. What is recorded is more than likely a small portion of what occurred or what was said in the days following. However, that cannot be proven either way. Except, not all statutes and commandments are recorded in Devarim.
Devarim 4:46-49
46 On this side Yarden, in the valley over against Bet-Peor, in the land of Sichon king of the Emori, who dwelt at Cheshbon, whom Moshe and the Children of Yisrael smote, after they were come forth out of Mitzrayim. 47 And they possessed his land, and the land of Og king of Bashan, two kings of the Amorites, which on this side Yarden toward the sunrising; 48 from Aroer, which is by the bank of the river (nachal) Arnon, even to mount Sion, which Chermon, 49 and all the plain on this side Yarden eastward, even to the sea of the plain, under the springs of Pisgah.
This was a relative time of peace for the Children of Yisrael. It was time to meditate on the words that would both make their next endeavor successful and secure their inheritance. That is if they continued in the words of Moshe. The same is true for us today.
Return to Devarim (Deuteronomy)
Return to Books of the Bible
Return to Bible Studies