“These are the words that Moses spoke to all Israel beyond the Jordan in the wilderness” (Deuteronomy 1:1 ESV).
The book of Deuteronomy is a recap of the Israelites’ wilderness journey. It is the fifth and final book of the Torah. The word “Torah,” is Hebrew for “law” as well as the name used to refer to the first five books. They are also called the “Books of Moses” or the “Pentateuch.” Deuteronomy’s title comes from the Greek translation, the Septuagint, and literally means “Second Law” (“deutero” – two or second; “nomos” – law). The Hebrews call the book “Devarim,” which means “words,” taken from the opening verse, “These are the words…”
Deuteronomy is made up of three sermons that Moses gave to the Israelites to prepare them to finally enter the Promised Land. In these sermons, he reminded them of all that they had learned together in their wilderness wanderings, of God’s laws and God’s promises.
For the modern reader, Deuteronomy is a helpful “Cliff’s Notes” version of the previous three books. It also gives insight into how Moses viewed the events recorded previously. Yet perhaps its greatest lesson is seeing how forgetful we are and how often we must be reminded of God’s power and promises.
PRAYER: Dear Father, we are thankful for Your Word. For it reminds us of Your power and promises. We are forgetful and we often stray, but You are faithful and merciful to us. We thank You for our Great Shepherd Jesus, who has gathered us into His fold. In His name we pray, amen.