Bible Pathways 03/12/2004
March 12
Read Deuteronomy 32 -- 34
In Today's Reading:
The song of Moses; Moses blesses the 12 tribes; death of Moses on Mount Nebo; Joshua succeeds Moses
The Israelites were to proclaim greatness to our God . . . for all His ways are judgment: a God of Truth . . . just and right (Deuteronomy 32:3-4). Moses foretold of the blessings and happiness that would be theirs if they lived in obedience to the Word of God (33:6-29).
After conferring spiritual blessings upon each of the tribes, Moses concluded with praise to God: The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms: and He shall thrust out the enemy from before you (33:27). Although it is written: There arose not a prophet since in Israel like to Moses, whom the LORD knew face to face (34:10), Moses forfeited the privilege of leading Israel into Canaan because of his sin (32:48-52; compare Numbers 20:1-13). Thus Moses became an example for all Israel that God is holy and cannot allow His Law to be broken without consequences.
Moses' life had been almost perfect. However, even though he had been the Lord's lawgiver, he had also broken the Law once, and the Law did not permit exceptions. Moses is last seen alone, climbing one of the most prominent mountain peaks in Moab from which he was allowed to view the promised land, though he could not enter it at that time. Moses' penalty illustrates that even forgiveness of sin does not remove its earthly consequences (James 2:10).
Centuries later, Moses, symbolizing God's Law, stood on Mount Hermon in the promised land with Elijah, who symbolized the prophets of God. Together they talked with Jesus as He was transfigured before them: and His face did shine as the sun, and His raiment was white as the light. And, behold, there appeared to them Moses and Elias (Elijah) talking with Him. Then answered Peter, and said . . . let us make three tabernacles; one for You, and one for Moses, and one for Elias (Elijah). While He yet spoke, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud . . said, This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear . . . Him (Matthew 17:2-5).
Word Studies:
32:6 requite = repay; 32:15 Jeshurun = upright; a symbolic name for Israel; waxen fat = became prosperous and complacent; 32:44 Hoshea = Joshua; 33:17 unicorns = wild oxen; push = drive.
Christ Portrayed:
As our Rock (Deuteronomy 32:31). Christ was that spiritual Rock that followed (accompanied) them (I Corinthians 10:4).
Prayer Needs:
Government Officials: Sen. Kent Conrad (ND) and Gov. Mitt Romney (MA) · Country: Slovenia (2 million) in southeastern Europe · Major languages: Slovenian and Serbo-Croatian · Freedom of religion · 81% Roman Catholic; 1% Muslim · Prayer Suggestion: Trust the Lord and ask Him to direct your steps (Psalm 143:8).
Optional Reading: John 3
Memory Verse for the Week: John 3:15
