The Book of Deuteronomy

Author:

Traditionally attributed to Moses, the final section of the Book of Deuteronomy was probably written by his successor, Joshua, when he records the death of Moses. See (31:9) wherein it is written: "Moses wrote this law, and delivered it unto the priests...and unto all the elders of Israel". However, in Chapter 34, the death of Moses is recorded and, therefore, could not have been written by Moses himself.

Setting:

Approximately 1400 B.C.

Major Events:

This Book of the Bible records the final words spoken by Moses' as the Israelites prepare to enter the Promised Land in Canaan. The title literally means, "second law". A period of roughly 40 years has passed since God handed down his laws to Moses from Mount Sinai, and the generation who traveled in the wilderness for this period of time have all died out. Moses reminds the Israelites of God's laws, commands, and of their history as a nation as they prepare to enter the land promised to them by God. However, Moses tells the people that he cannot go with them to the Promised Land but that Joshua will lead them there. Moses sees the Promised Land for the last time from Mount Nebo before he dies. God Himself buries Moses in a valley in the land of Moab, but no man knows exactly where his burial site is even today (34:5-6). Moses was 120 years old when he died.

Transcendental:

In the New Testament, the Book of Deuteronomy is quoted dozens of times, including three times when Jesus is tempted in the wilderness (Matt. 4:1-11). The Lord defeated Satan by restating Deuteronomy 8:3, "Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes out of the mouth of God", again in Deuteronomy 6:16, "Thou shall not tempt the Lord thy God", and Deuteronomy 6:13, "Thou shall worship the Lord thy God, and only Him shall thou serve." The Ten Commandments introduced in Exodus is repeated in full here in Deuteronomy Chapter 5.

Take Away:

God's rules and expectations of His people are made clear in Deuteronomy and are made for the benefit of us, not meant to limit or frustrate us, "Hear, therefore, O Israel, and observe to do it; that it may be well with thee, and that you may increase mightily, as the Lord God of thy fathers has promised thee, in the land that flows with milk and honey (6:3).