Deuteronomy 30: A Scattered Future
THE HISTORY OF Israel for the past three thousand years has been a turbulent one. They have experienced numerous invasions and massive deportation and persecution. I find it amazing that they were able to maintain their sense of national identity for nearly two thousand years without sovereign control of their homeland. The hand of God has been at work. Moses foretold the dispersion even before they set foot in the land. As he is giving his final words, he tells the people that they will not stay faithful to the covenant. And he wants Israel to know in no uncertain terms that they will be severely disciplined for future unfaithfulness. However, threat of judgment is not the last word. As Moses looks into the future, he gives Israel hope on the other side of judgment.
Warming Up to God
In the Ten Commandments God describes himself as a jealous God. What are some of the painful and positive consequences of worshiping a God who cares whether you love him or ignore him?
Read Deuteronomy 30. »
Discovering the Word
- What is going to happen to Israel in the future?
- How is the Lord's justice and mercy embodied in these verses?
- How might an Israelite who had yet to enter the land respond to the warnings here?
- Compare and contrast the choice between life and death (vv. 11-20). What is involved in each?
- Read the passage again. What issues of the heart are woven throughout?
- How are these verses a summary of the entire book?
Applying the Word
- The curses and the blessings for obedience were aimed at cultivating a community of people with spiritually responsive hearts. How would you characterize the spiritual responsiveness of your own heart?
- In what area of your life do you need the reassurance of verses 11-14, that you are able to follow God's commands?
Responding in Prayer
Thank God for his love that won't let you live in disobedience. Pray that God will give you a heart that is open to learning from his loving discipline.
For Further Study
Deuteronomy by John A. Thompson