Deuteronômio 1
Bob Utley · Citado em PreceptAustin
Deuteronômio 1
Utley - “increase you a thousand-fold” This is obviously an idiomatic phrase. The number 1,000 was a multiple of ten (times 3) and, therefore, a symbol of greatness or numerousness (cf. Ps. 90:4; 2 Pet. 3:8). Here is a list of hyperbolic usages from NIDOTTE, vol. 1, p. 417: 1. the work of God in blessing, Deut. 1:11; Job 42:12; Ps. 144:13 2. military blessing, Josh. 23:10 3. military curse for unbelief, Deut. 32:30; Isa. 7:23; 30:17; Amos 5:3 4. enduring sovereignty of God, Ps. 90:4 5. God’s covenant promises, Deut. 7:9; Ps. 105:8 6. God’s wrath vs. God’s love, Exod. 34:7; Deut. 5:9–10 7. blessing of being in God’s temple, Ps. 84:10 (Deuteronomy 1 Commentary) Deuteronomy 1:12 'How can I alone bear the load and burden of you and your strife? De 1:9 Ex 18:13-16 Nu 11:11-15 1Ki 3:7-9 Ps 89:19 2Co 2:16 3:5 Deuteronomy 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries INCREASED POSTERITY BRINGS INCREASING PROBLEMS How can I alone bear the load and burden of you and your strife (quarrels, lawsuits)? - The irony is that God's faithfulness to multiply the nation created a load and burden for Moses and yet Moses prayed for increasing growth. The verb for bear (nasa) was often used of difficult, back-breaking labor. And the Septuagint translates load (torach) with the word kopos which describes exhausting physical or mental exertion toil to the point of becoming weary. Deuteronomy 1:13 'Choose wise and discerning and experienced men from your tribes, and I will appoint them as your heads.' Take: Heb. Give, Ex 18:21 Nu 11:16,17 Ac 1:21-23 6:2-6 Deuteronomy 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Choose wise and discerning (understanding, discretion - bin/biyn) and experienced (well-respected) men from your tribes, and I will appoint them as your heads - Here Moses tells them to choose, but in Exodus 18:25+ it says Moses chose them (see Geisler below). Wise (חֲכָמִים hakamim ; Septuagint = sophos) means they knew how to apply knowledge (i.e., they did not just possess "head knowledge!"). Eugene Merrill adds that "In the Old Testament, "wise" (khakam) is more descriptive of godliness than of intellect. Discerning (bin/biyn nebonim; Septuagint = epistemon = knowledgeable in a way that makes one effectual in the exercise of such knowledge) means those who have discernment and so are able to judge matters. Experienced is the Hebrew word yada meaning to know supporting the idea that these men were well known and thus respected. Merrill adds that "Literally, then, these were "known men" or, in the modern idiom, "known quantities." There were no secrets here, no coverups that someday would be exposed. They were solid citizens." (Cornerstone Biblical Commentary) Reformation Study note - A reference to Ex. 18:24–26 where Moses took the good advice of Jethro, his father-in-law. During the year at Mount Sinai, Moses, under God, organized the nation’s judicial system, military power, and worship (ED: TABERNACLE AND PRIESTHOOD).. Norman Geisler - DEUTERONOMY 1:13—Did Moses appoint the judges or did the people? PROBLEM: Exodus 18:25+ declares that “Moses chose able men out of all Israel, and made them heads over the people.” However, here Moses told the people to choose their own judges (Dt. 1:13). SOLUTION: Both are correct, as is indicated only two verses later, where it says Moses “took the heads of your tribes … and made them heads [judges] over you.” (Dt. 1:15).The people had chosen their leaders and Moses appointed these as their judges. So it is proper to speak of either Moses or the people as choosing the judges. (When Critics Ask) Deuteronomy 1:14 "You answered me and said, 'The thing which you have said to do is good.' Deuteronomy 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries You answered me and said, 'The thing which you have said to do is good - The people liked Moses' plan (actually originally Jethro's plan). Deuteronomy 1:15 "So I took the heads of your tribes, wise and experienced men, and appointed them heads over you, leaders of thousands and of hundreds, of fifties and of tens, and officers for your tribes. I took: De 16:18 Ex 18:25,26 made: Heb. gave, Eph 4:11 over thousands: Nu 31:14 1Sa 8:12 17:18 22:7 Deuteronomy 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries APPOINTMENT OF ADMINISTRATORS AND COMMANDERS So I took the heads of your tribes, wise and experienced (well-known, respected) men, and appointed them - See Geisler's note above. Moses repeats the qualifications of wise and experienced or of good reputation, which recalls the NT requirements for overseers of "above reproach" (1 Ti 3:2, Titus 1:7). Appointed means they were given to serve as leaders. Note that a leader was to be chosen from each tribe so that each tribe was represented. THOUGHT - Just as Israelites needed qualified leaders, believers today need qualified leaders to go before them in their journey to the ultimate "Promised Land." Does your church appoint wise and experienced men or are they chosen because of their charisma, popularity, large donations or business acumen? Sadly, I have too often seen the appointment of leaders based on the latter "attributes" to the detriment of the church! Another sad trend I have noticed among some of the young reformed churches is a tendency to appoint younger leaders with almost complete exclusion of older, wise and experienced men who have walked with Jesus longer than some of the young leaders have even been alive! Any church is less than it could be for ignoring the wisdom and experience of these older saints. John Maxwell adds - Moses felt that a leader could be defined as one who knows the way (understanding), goes the way (experience), and shows the way (credibility). He understood that a leader was not necessarily an extraordinary man, but an ordinary man committed to an extraordinary God. Therefore, the selection of men who qualified to fill this role was not a matter to be taken lightly. Personally, I feel that this is an area where the church today often falls sadly short. After assuming the senior pastorate at Skyline Wesleyan Church in San Diego, my first goal was to disciple the leadership (both professional and lay) within the congregation. This was my most important ministry to the church. Weekly I talked with key men and women, had sharing with them biblical leadership principles and helping them to apply these truths to their lives and the ones for whom they had responsibility. The results were overwhelming. Not only was I proclaiming God’s Word from the pulpit, but it was being modeled in the pew.(Preacher's Commentary) Merrill adds that "The idea is that men already known for leadership skills—as well as being wise, discerning, and of good reputation—became leaders in a different capacity. Leadership is not an office; it's a gift." Heads (administrators) over you, leaders (commanders) of thousands and of hundreds, of fifties and of tens, and officers for your tribes - First leaders need to be identified and then they need to be organized. "There was a wise organizational structure devised for the people. The people were broken down into groups of thousands, hundreds, and tens. Some leaders were to serve as commanders and tribal leaders. As commanders they led the people into battle. As tribal leaders they governed the affairs of the tribe. Note that other leaders were apparently chosen to serve as judges of legal matters that arose between the people." (Preacher's Outline & Sermon Bible – Deuteronomy) Earl Kalland - The use of the word "commanders" (Dt 1:15NIV) and the size of the groups—thousands, hundreds, fifties, and tens—suggest a military arrangement; but neither the Exodus narrative nor this one speaks of military matters. Moreover, the current need was for assistant judges, not for military men as commanders and tribal officials. It is not clear in this context, however, whether commanders and tribal officials are the same men. (The Expositor's Bible Commentary – Volume 3: Deuteronomy, Joshua, Judges, Ruth, 1 & 2 Samuel) Deuteronomy 1:16 "Then I charged your judges at that time, saying, 'Hear the cases between your fellow countrymen, and judge righteously between a man and his fellow countryman, or the alien who is with him. charged: De 27:11 31:14 Nu 27:19 1Th 2:11 1Ti 5:21 6:17 Hear: De 16:18,19 Ex 23:2,3,7,8 Lev 19:15 2Sa 23:3 2Ch 19:6-10 Ps 58:1 Joh 7:24 the alien: De 10:18,19 24:14 Ex 22:21 23:9 Lev 24:22 Deuteronomy 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries EQUAL JUSTICE FOR ALL Then I charged (admonished) your judges at that time - Judges is shaphat which is not typical of the modern concept of judge (as in a court of law), but is much more inclusive -- to function as ruler or governor. saying, 'Hear the cases between your fellow countrymen, and judge righteously between a man and his fellow countryman, or the alien who is with him - Listen fairly! Judgment was to be righteous, absolutely true and without bias (and without bribes) whether the person was a native Israelite or an alien. Righteously (tsedeq) refers to a right relation to an ethical or legal standard, adherence to a norm, in this case the divine standard, thus true to God's own character. John Trapp on hear the cases - Hear them out. In the Forum of Rome the accuser had six hours allotted him to accuse, the accused had nine hours to make his answer ESV Study note on alien - Aliens were non-Israelites who resided in the land and accepted Israelite rule and law but did not own land and were hence vulnerable to oppression. Deuteronomy consistently upholds the equal rights of aliens and Israelites (e.g., Dt 10:19; 14:29; 16:11, 14; 24:14, 17, 19-21; 26:11-13; 27:19). Deuteronomy 1:17 'You shall not show partiality in judgment; you shall hear the small and the great alike. You shall not fear man, for the judgment is God's. The case that is too hard for you, you shall bring to me, and I will hear it.' shall not: De 10:17 16:19 Lev 19:15 1Sa 16:7 2Sa 14:14 Pr 24:23 Lu 20:21 Ac 10:34,35 Ro 2:11 Eph 6:9 Col 3:25 Jas 2:1,3,9 1Pe 1:17 shall hear: Ex 23:3,6,7 1Sa 12:3,4 Job 22:6-9 29:11-17 31:13-16 Ps 82:3,4 Pr 22:22,23 Jer 5:28,29 Am 5:11,12 Mic 2:1-3 3:1-4 7:3,4 Jas 2:2-4,5 shall : 1Ki 21:8-14 Job 31:34 Pr 29:25 Jer 1:17 Mt 22:16 Mk 12:14 1Th 2:4 the judgment: 2Ch 19:6 the case: De 17:8-10 Ex 18:18,22,26 Deuteronomy 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Related Passages: Deuteronomy 10:17 “For the LORD your God is the God of gods and the Lord of lords, the great, the mighty, and the awesome God who does not show partiality nor take a bribe. 1 Timothy 5:21 I solemnly charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus and of His chosen angels, to maintain these principles without bias, doing nothing in a spirit of partiality. James 2:4 have you not made distinctions among yourselves, and become judges with evil motives? Leviticus 19:15 ‘You shall do no injustice in judgment; you shall not be partial to the poor nor defer to the great, but you are to judge your neighbor fairly. Job 13:10 “He will surely reprove you If you secretly show partiality. Psalm 82:2 How long will you judge unjustly And show partiality to the wicked? Selah. Proverbs 24:23 These also are sayings of the wise. To show partiality in judgment is not good. Proverbs 29:27 An unjust man is abominable to the righteous, And he who is upright in the way is abominable to the wicked. Malachi 2:9 “So I also have made you despised and abased before all the people, just as you are not keeping My ways but are showing partiality in the instruction. JUDGMENT TO BE WITHOUT PARTIALITY O FEAR You shall not show partiality in judgment; you shall hear the small and the great alike - The judge was to show no partiality regardless of the persons wealth or social status. The Hebrew of show partiality (nakar) was meant to acknowledge faces (Lxx has epiginosko + prosopon = to know face - see related Greek word aprosopoleptos [albeit not used here]). In other words they judge was not to let the bold, daring countenances of the rich or mighty induce them to give an unrighteous decision. And similarly they were not to let the abject look of the poor man induce them either to favor him in an unrighteous cause, or to give judgment against him at the demand of the oppressor. The prime example of no partiality is God Himself (Dt 10:17+). Eugene Merrill - The Hebrew idiom here for "to be partial" is "to recognize faces." That is, when a judge holds court, he is not to say, "Oh, I know him, so I must treat him with special favor." Rather, as the Hebrew so pungently puts it, "As the small, so the great" (1:17, lit.). In God's community the ground is level at the courthouse. (Cornerstone Biblical Commentary) THOUGHT - Decision-making is a job for the courageous. Too many leaders tend to make decisions that are based on general acceptance rather than on rightness. The larger the number of people involved in any given decision, the greater the pressure for conformity. Sometimes the easiest way out is to make no decision. This is the coward’s route which can be disastrous to the morale and direction of the followers. A right decision is like a sharp knife that cuts clean and straight. There may be some pain, but the healing process will be free of infection. Indecision is like a dull knife that hacks and tears and leaves ragged edges behind it. If and when the wound heals, an ugly scar will remain as a reminder. (Maxwell) You shall not fear man, for the judgment is God's - The buck stops with God, not the judge. Judge boldly and with courage, doing so in dependence on and in the authority of God. They were not to be afraid of the consequences of their judgment including threats against them (as powerful people are prone to do!). Moses explains that the reason is because it is not their judgment but God's so the parties could take their case to Yahweh if they were not satisfied! And mark it down that judges are accountable to God and God alone! America is filled with judges that seem to seek advancement of their political agenda instead of seeking God's justice, and as a famous pastor once said in a sermon there will be Pay Day, Some Day! And as someone else has said "Without fair and equal justice, a people cannot long survive!" Woe! ILLUSTRATION - Abraham Lincoln, like Moses, understood the motivation that subordinates receive when the top man is willing to assume responsibility for others. He demonstrated this truth immediately following the Battle of Gettysburg. Lincoln sensed an opportunity to end the war by driving hard against Lee’s army as it retreated. A swift, daring attack might do it. As commander-in-chief of the army, he ordered General Meade to pursue. A friendly note in the president’s handwriting accompanied the official orders. It said, “The order I enclose is not on record. If you succeed, you need not publish the order. If you fail, publish it. Then, if you succeed, you will have all the credit of the movement. If not, I’ll take the responsibility.” With that kind of loyalty, Lincoln instilled confidence in his generals. They would go the extra mile for him. (John Maxwell) John
Deuteronômio 1
Utley - In this verse the people are impugning the motives and nature of God (e.g., Dt 9:28). They had forgotten all of the wonderful promises and provisions of God during their trek from Sinai to Kadesh and had started focusing on their present situation, which they viewed as devastating (Deuteronomy 1 Commentary) Constable succinctly summarizes their sin -The Israelites doubted God's goodness, denied His word, and disobeyed His will (ED: This sounds like a repeat of the scenario in Genesis 3:1-24+). THOUGHT - One sin will take a person to hell, but there are some sins which are worse than others. Some sins result in consequences that can't be undone in this lifetime and will have live changing, even devastating effects! Think about Israel's grumbling. They had grumbled from the moment God delivered them out of slavery, and yet for the most part those episodes of grumbling were not devastating. But now they grumbled one time too many and it cost them 40 years of wilderness wandering and thousands and thousands dead in the desert! Beloved, we all need to be wary of presumptuous sins, because we do not know when a sin may result in devastating consequences that we will have to live with the rest of our lives. I think for example of a spouse being tempted to have an affair and finally capitulating, only to suffer lifelong consequences (and regret) as a result of a momentary stupid sin! I know a man who by his own admission knew God was calling him into ministry at a young age. But he was a successful engineer working at NASA and involved in putting men into outer space. He choose to stay with NASA and turned down the call of God on His life. By his own admission, his next 50 years were filled with deep regret at his momentary decision to refuse to "enter in to the Promised Land," which God had prepared for him. Beware of grumbling against Jehovah! Grumbled (07279)(ragan) means to murmur, gossip, complain or whisper In Proverbs, rāgan occurs four times as a participle substantive meaning "informer," "slanderer," "gossip" (i.e., "one who murmurs or whispers"). A slanderer separates close friends (Pr. 16:28). The slanderer's words dig deep into one's self (and thus injure a person; Pr 18:8; 26:22). When a gossip is not present, a quarrel will die down (Pr 26:20). The future redemption of Israel at the end of this age will be marked by those who criticize, but ultimately will accept instruction (Isa. 29:24). 7v - Deut. 1:27; Ps. 106:25; Prov. 16:28; Prov. 18:8; Prov. 26:20; Prov. 26:22; Isa. 29:24. Ps 106:24-26+ Then they despised the pleasant land; They did not believe in His word, 25 But grumbled (ragan) in their tents; They did not listen to the voice of the LORD. 26 Therefore He swore to them That He would cast them down in the wilderness. Eugene Merrill on hate - The word "hate" (sin'ah), in covenant contexts such as this, means not so much to harbor negative emotional feelings as to express rejection (NIDOTTE 3.1257; cf. Moran 1963). "To love" indicates choice, acceptance, and election, whereas "to hate" suggests non-choice (cf. 7:6-11; Mal 1:2-3; Ro 9:13). Israel here interprets Yahweh's command to go up into the land as tantamount to facing certain annihilation; therefore, they thought, he must not have chosen them to be his people after all.(Cornerstone Biblical Commentary) A Warning To Grumblers They did not believe His word, but complained. — Psalm 106:24-25 Today's Scripture: Psalm 106:6-25 Most of us do our share of complaining, but few of us see it for what it is. Although we condemn some sins in others, we tolerate our own murmuring as nothing more than a negative attitude. But in the Scriptures, God condemns it as a grievous sin. One example of its seriousness is found in Numbers 13 when Israel refused to enter the Promised Land, objecting that the people were stronger than they were (vv.26-33). Psalm 106:24-25 lists three sins that kept the Israelites in the wilderness: They “despised” the blessings of the Promised Land, they “did not believe” God’s word that all would be well there, and they “did not heed” His voice of direction. Instead, they sat in their tents and “complained.” God wanted to bless His people, yet they preferred to hang on to the barren familiarity of the wilderness. So God did not allow any of that generation to enter the land. Author Ian Thomas warns today’s grumblers: “Ignoring what you need, you will begin to clamor for what you want, and if you are not careful—God will give it to you!” When things go wrong, I would not be a grumbler, Complaining, seeing everything as grim; For when I think of how the Lord has blessed me, I cannot help but give my praise to Him. —Hess God always gives his best to those who leave the choice with him. Thorns or Roses? Two boys were eating some grapes. One of them remarked, “Aren’t they sweet!” “I guess so,” the other replied, “but they’re full of seeds.” Wandering into a garden, the first boy exclaimed, “Look at those big, beautiful red roses!” The other commented, “They’re full of thorns!” It was a warm day, so they stopped at the store for a soft drink. After several swallows, the second youngster complained, “My bottle’s half-empty already.” The first quickly responded, “Mine’s still half-full!” Many people are like the negative-thinking boy in this story. They always look at life through dark glasses. Like the children of Israel in today’s Scripture, they complain and grumble when they should be praising the Lord for His gracious provision. But thank God, not everyone is like that. There are people who concentrate on the bright side and are radiant, happy, and grateful. They are realistic about the somber side of life, but they don’t pout and fret. Some folks see so many thorns, They scarce can see one rose, While others count two blossoms For every thorn that grows. —Garrison Instead of grumbling because you don't get what you want, be thankful you don't get what you deserve. Deuteronomy 1:28 'Where can we go up? Our brethren have made our hearts melt, saying, "The people are bigger and taller than we; the cities are large and fortified to heaven. And besides, we saw the sons of the Anakim there."' made our hearts melt, De 20:8 *marg: Ex 15:15 Jos 2:9,11,24 *marg: Jos 14:8 Isa 13:7 Eze 21:7 The people: De 9:1,2 Nu 13:28-33 we saw: De 9:2 Jos 11:22 15:14 Judges 1:10,20 2Sa 21:16-22 Deuteronomy 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Related Passages: Numbers 13:31-33+ But the men who had gone up with him said, “We are not able to go up against the people, for they are too strong for us.” 32 So they gave out to the sons of Israel a bad report of the land which they had spied out, saying, “The land through which we have gone, in spying it out, is a land that devours its inhabitants; and all the people whom we saw in it are men of great size. 33 “There also we saw the Nephilim (the sons of Anak are part of the Nephilim); and we became like grasshoppers in our own sight, and so we were in their sight.” HOW TO DISCOURAGE AN ENTIRE NATION Where can we go up? - NET = "What is going to happen to us?" At first reading this suggests that the grumblers may have experienced a change of heart. But when we compare the parallel passage in Numbers 14:4 where "they said to one another, “Let us appoint a leader and return to Egypt," it seems clear they had no change of heart. And the following context (people are bigger, etc), would support this interpretation of their question. As Merrill says "It seems best to take their question, then, as a rhetorical question, one that demands or expects the answer that there was no longer hope of claiming the land of promise." (Ibid) Our brethren have made our hearts melt - NET = "Our brothers (10 of 12) have drained away our courage." NLT = "Our brothers have demoralized us with their report." "Our brothers have discouraged us." (CSB) "Our brothers have made our hearts feeble with fear." Ten spies emphasized the obstacles instead of the opportunities and concluded that Israel was too weak to conquer the enemy. They walked by sight and not by faith. The people of the land were giants, the city walls were high, and the men felt like grasshoppers! Unbelief blinds you to God’s greatness and magnifies your own weakness. The phrase have made our hearts melt occurs commonly in of war (Dt 20:8; Josh 2:11; 5:1; 7:5; 2 Sa 17:10; Isa 13:7; 19:1; Nah 2:10; Ezek 21:7). The sad irony is that the same expression was used by Rahab the harlot declaring "When we heard it, our hearts melted and no courage remained in any man any longer because of you; for the LORD your God, He is God in heaven above and on earth beneath. , and more particularly with references to the enemies of the Lord who are terrified at his coming." As Merrill says "Ironic indeed is that Israel, on the verge of conquest as the army of the Lord, should itself lose heart." (Ibid) We are continually faced with a series of great opportunities brilliantly disguised as insoluble problems.” --John Gardiner They now offer three excuses which utterly demoralized the entire nation of Israel. Saying, "The people are bigger and taller than we - Bigger presumably means "bigger" in number (NET = "more numerous" ) The cities are large and fortified to heaven - NET = "Defenses appear to be as high as heaven." "Fenced to heaven." (YLT) Note how their unbelief exaggerated the obstacle (fenced to heaven), making the cities seem even more impregnable than they actually were. The irony is they forgot that their God was in Heaven and could easily "scale" the fences to heaven! When we are fearful we tend to exaggerate the things we are fearful of much like Israel did. Bob Utley - From archeology we have found evidence about some of these cities. Lachish was a southern Amorite city which had a wall 29 feet thick. The walls of these cities had an occasional raised turret or tower. One can understand how the Israelites were overwhelmed when they saw these cities (“fortified” BDB 130, KB 148, Qal PASSIVE PARTICIPLE means “inaccessible”). This hyperbole “fortified to heaven” is used in the same metaphorical sense as the names of the Ziggurats in Babylon (cf. Ge 11:4). (Deuteronomy 1 Commentary) And besides, we saw the sons of the Anakim there - NLT = "We even saw giants there-- the descendants of Anak!"' Giant numbers of people, giant walls and giants discouraged the people. THOUGHT - Beloved, that same principle pervades the pages of Scripture. God gives us promises, but we must lay hold of them by faith and obedience (genuine faith obeys!) This is why Paul said we have to fight the good fight of faith (1 Ti 6:12+). The Christian life is not a playground, but a battleground. Yes, the battle is the LORD'S, but He is still calling us as good soldiers to suffer hardship (2 Ti 2:3+) and fight for our possessions (don't misunderstand - for even then it is not to fight that we might "earn" or "merit" them for they are still ALL bestowed by His infinite grace. He simply wants us to manifest our faith in our good fight). Simpson - They did not question the merits of the land but their cowardly hearts were afraid of the perils of the way. Note that even in the face of all the discouraging words of the 10 spies, there was an overwhelmingly encouraging word from 2 of the spies, Caleb and Joshua... Then Caleb quieted the people before Moses and said, “We should by all means go up and take possession of it, for we will surely overcome it.” (Nu 13:30) Comment - Isn’t it interesting that Caleb saw the same land as the other ten spies, yet he said go while the others screamed no? Why the difference? We see things not as they are but as we are. I once developed a leadership lecture entitled, “Your Problem Is NOT Your Problem.” The thesis was that although we all have problems, we do not all respond to them the same way. Examples of this truth are numerous. Some people who stay married have greater problems than others who seek divorce. Some people who are happy have heavier burdens than others who are sad. It is a major mistake when we focus on the problems instead of the possibilities! This is what happened with the spies. Ten saw the barriers; two saw the blessings. Ten saw giants; two saw God. Ten saw fortified cities and their faith crumbled; two possessed faith and saw the fortified cities crumble. Two said, “The best is yet to come”; ten said, “The best is not to come.” (John Maxwell - Preacher's Commentary) Utley's SPECIAL TOPIC: TERMS USED FOR TALL/POWERFUL WARRIORS OR PEOPLE GROUPS These large/tall/powerful people are called by several names: 1. Nephilim (BDB 658)—Gen. 6:4; Num. 13:33 2. Rephaim (either BDB 952 or BDB 952 II)—Gen. 14:5; Deut. 2:11, 20; 3:11, 13; Josh. 12:4; 13:12; 2 Sam. 21:16, 18, 20, 22; 1 Chr. 20:4, 6, 8 3. Zamzummin (BDB 273), zuzim (BDB 265)—Gen. 14:5; Deut. 2:20 4. Emim (BDB 34)—Gen. 14:5; Deut. 2:10–11 5. Anakim (sons of Anak, BDB 778 I)—Num. 13:33; Deut. 1:28; 2:10–11, 21; 9:2; Josh. 11:21–22; 14:12, 15 (Deuteronomy 1 Commentary) Rod Mattoon - People today have a "nevertheless" attitude toward God. • I know I shouldn't live this way, BUT...... • I know God answers prayer, BUT...... • I know the tithe belongs to the Lord, BUT...... • I know I should serve the Lord, BUT..... Israel failed to consider the "God Factor." When a person is focused on their problems or obstacles, he fails to see the Lord. • Where will I get the money to pay this bill? • How will I get well? • What am I to do with my kids, wife, or husband? • How will I solve this problem? • I know the Lord can solve my problem, BUT.... Question - Who were the Anakim / Anakites? Answer - The Anakim/Anakites were a formidable race of giant, warlike people (Deuteronomy 2:10, 21; 9:2) who occupied the lands of southern Israel near Hebron before the arrival of the Israelites (Joshua 15:13). The Anakim’s ancestry has been traced back to Anak, the son of Arba (Joshua 15:13; 21:11), who at that time was regarded as the “greatest man among the Anakim” (Joshua 14:15). The name “Anakim” most likely means “long-necked,” i.e., “tall.” The Hebrews thought them to be descendants of the Nephilim, a powerful race who dominated the pre-Flood world (Genesis 6:4; Numbers 13:33). When the twelve Israelite spies returned from exploring the Promised Land, they gave a frightening report of “people great and tall” whom they identified as the sons of Anak (Deuteronomy 9:2). The Israelites, seized with fear and believing themselves to be mere “grasshoppers . . . in their sight” (Numbers 13:33), rebelled against God (Deuteronomy 1:26-28) and refused to enter the land God had promised them. The Israelites were exhorted by Moses (Deuteronomy 1:19) not to fear the Anakim, but they refused to trust God’s promises (Deuteronomy 1:32-33). As a result, God became angry (Deuteronomy 1:34-39) and prohibited the “evil generation” from entering the Promised Land; Joshua and Caleb were the only exceptions (Deuteronomy 1:35-36). Because of their fear of the Anakim and their rebellion against God, the children of Israel were forced to wander for another 38 years in the wilderness. During the conquest of Canaan, Joshua expelled the Anakim from the hill country, and Caleb finally drove them out of Hebron completely. However, a small remnant found refuge in the cities of Gaza, Gath, and Ashdod (Joshua 11:22). Many Bible scholars speculate that the Anakim’s descendants were the Philistine giants David encountered (2 Samuel 21:15-22), including Goliath of Gath (1 Samuel 17:4-7).GotQuestions.org Only a Scarecrow "He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world." - 1 John 4:4 Like the children of Israel in today's Bible reading (Numbers 13:17-33), Hannah Hurnard, author of "Hinds' Feet on High Places," was once paralyzed by fear. Then she heard a sermon on scarecrows that challenged her to turn her fear to faith. The preacher said, "A wise bird knows that a scarecrow is simply an advertisement. It announces that some very juicy and delicious fruit is to be had for the picking. There are scarecrows in all the best gardens… If I am wise, I too shall treat the scarecrow as though it were an invitation. Every giant in the way which makes me feel like a grasshopper is only a scarecrow beckoning me to God's richest blessings." He concluded, "Faith is a bird which loves to perch on scarecrows. All our fears are groundless." Hannah testified that this humble parable has encouraged her to walk along some frightening but fruitful pathways more times than she could number. So let us trust Him in our troubles, For He is loving, kind, and wise; And most often trials and troubles Are but blessings in disguise. -- Jarvis When you fix your eyes on God, your fears will vanish. Do You See Giants? My servant Caleb, because he has a different spirit in him and has followed Me fully, I will bring into the land. —Numbers 14:24 Today's Scripture: Numbers 13:17-30 The 12 spies who were sent out by Moses scouted the land of Canaan for 40 days. When they returned, all but Joshua and Caleb gave this pessimistic report: “We were like grasshoppers in our own sight, and so we were in their sight” (Num. 13:33). These faithless ones saw only difficulties and defeat. Yes, the giants were great, but wasn’t their God greater? How could they so easily forget the way God led them through the wilderness? The 10 spies who were filled with doubt died in the wilderness. We know that Joshua led the people into the Promised Land. But what about Caleb? God blessed him and brought him into the land too because he had a different spirit and followed Him wholeheartedly (14:24). Think for a moment of two balloons. One is filled with carbon dioxide and cannot rise. The other balloon is filled with helium and immediately goes up. So too, if our hearts are filled with doubts and fears, we will not be able to rise in faith to do what God wants us to do. Faith, mighty faith, the promise sees, And looks to God alone, Laughs at impossibilities, And cries, "It shall be done!" —Anon. Fear sees the obstacle; faith sees the opportunity. Deuteronomy 1:29 "Then I said to you, 'Do not be shocked, nor fear them. Deuteronomy 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Related Passage: Joshua 1:9 (JEHOVAH TO JOSHUA AFTER MOSES HAD DIED) “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble (arats) or be dismayed (chathath), for (TERM OF EXPLANATION - REASON NOT TO TREMBLE OR BE DISMAYED) the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” MOSES INTERVENES TO ASSUAGE THEIR FEAR Then I said to you, 'Do not be shocked (terrified, in dread), nor fear them - Moses tried to stem the tide of discouragement that swept through the entire nation by exhorting them to not be alarmed and do not fear the enemy. He explains why in Dt 1:30. The encouragement do not fear (do not be afraid) occurs repeatedly in Deuteronomy - Dt 1:21; Dt 3:2, Dt 3:22; Dt 7:18; Dt 20:1, 3; Dt 31:6, 8. John Maxwell - The remarkable thing about fearing God is that when we fear Him, we fear nothing else; whereas if we do not fear God, we fear everything else. This is what happened to Israel. (Preacher's Commentary) Shocked (06206)(arats) means to cause to tremble, to be alarmed, to be terrified, to dread, to be struck with awe or dread. Isaiah says the splendor of the majesty of Jehovah make the earth tremble (Isa 2:19, 21). Deuteronomy and Joshua repeatedly reminded the Israelites before battle to not fear because God would be with them - Dt. 1:29; Dt 7:21; Dt 20:3; Dt 31:6; Josh. 1:9). Each time, Israel was admonished not to fear the nations who dwelt in the Promised Land, and each admonishment was followed by a reason for the maintenance of courage. Arats - 16x in 15v - ause(1), cause terror(1), cause trembling(1), dread(3), feared(2), make the tremble(2), shocked(1), stand in awe(1), tremble(4). - Deut. 1:29; Deut. 7:21; Deut. 20:3; Deut. 31:6; Jos. 1:9; Job 13:25; Job 31:34; Ps. 10:18 = man "will not longer cause terror."; Ps. 89:7 = "A God greatly feared"; Isa. 2:19; Isa. 2:21; Isa. 8:12; Isa. 8:13; Isa. 29:23; Isa. 47:12 Fear (03372) yare to fear, to be afraid (Ge 3:10+), to respect, to reverence, to be terrified, to be awesome, to be feared, to make afraid, to frighten. Uses of yare in Deuteronomy - Deut. 1:19; Deut. 1:21; Deut. 1:29; Deut. 2:4; Deut. 3:2; Deut. 3:22; Deut. 4:10; Deut. 5:5; Deut. 5:29; Deut. 6:2; Deut. 6:13; Deut. 6:24; Deut. 7:18; Deut. 7:19; Deut. 7:21; Deut. 8:6; Deut. 8:15; Deut. 10:12; Deut. 10:17; Deut. 10:20; Deut. 10:21; Deut. 13:4; Deut. 13:11; Deut. 14:23; Deut. 17:13; Deut. 17:19; Deut. 19:20; Deut. 20:1; Deut. 20:3; Deut. 20:8; Deut. 21:21; Deut. 25:18; Deut. 28:10; Deut. 28:58; Deut. 31:6; Deut. 31:8; Deut. 31:12; Deut. 31:13; Utley - yare is the common term for fear: of enemies—Deut. 1:21, 29; 2:4; 3:2, 22; 7:18, 19; 20:1, 3; 31:6; Josh. 11:6 peoples of the earth fear the people of God—Deut. 28:10 (cf. Josh. 4:24); Josh. 9:24 Israel is to fear/awe/respect YHWH—Deut. 4:10; 5:5; 6:2, 13, 24; 10:12, 20; 13:11; 14:23; 17:13, 19; 19:20; 21:21; 25:18; 28:58; 31:12; Josh. 4:24 (Deuteronomy 1 Commentary) Related Resources: How To Handle Fear-Pt 1 How to Handle Fear-Pt 2 How To Handle Fear-Pt 3 How to Handle Fear-Pt 4 Deuteronomy 1:30 'The LORD your God who goes before you will Himself fight on your behalf, just as He did for you in Egypt before your eyes, will Himself fight on your behalf: De 20:1-4 Ex 14:14,25 Jos 10:42 1Sa 17:45,46 2Ch 14:11,12 32:8 Ne 4:20 Ps 46:11 Isa 8:9,10 Ro 8:31,37 just as He did for you: Ex 7:1-25 15:1-27 Ps 78:11-13,43-51 105:27-36 Deuteronomy 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries MOSES REMINDS THEM OF GOD'S POWER OVER EGYPT Note that Moses did not issue the encouragements in Dt 1:29 in a vacuum, but founded his words on God's faithfulness in their past. It is always good to remember the great and mighty works of the Lord in the past that we might be encouraged in trials and adversities in the present. Do you keep a notebook of the great works of God in your life or the life of your family? If not, you might consider it, for we are a forgetful people! And it is a good thing for your children to see to encourage them in their walk of faith. The LORD your God Who goes before you will Himself fight on your behalf, just as He did for you in Egypt before your eye - In contrast to their false idea that God would destroy them, Moses says He will fight for them (cf Dt 3:22, Dt 20:4)! Moses explains why Israel need not be terrified or fear the enemy, giving a reason and a reminder. The omnipotent God would Himself fight for Israel. This was not a new thing, but a historical fact. The fact that Jehovah had fought for Israel in Egypt should have been sufficient evidence to dissuade them from fear. After all they were even eye witnesses of God's mighty intervention on their behalf (see before your eye)! What was Israel's problem? They had a bad memory of past miracles (aka "spiritual amnesia, the Psalmist writing "They forgot His deeds And His miracles that He had shown them. 12 He wrought wonders before their fathers In the land of Egypt, in the field of Zoan. He divided the sea and caused them to pass through, And He made the waters stand up like a heap. (Ps 78:11-13+) Utley - The LORD your God who goes before you” This is a powerful encouraging phrase expressing God’s best gift—His personal presence and provision. Notice in v. 30 He goes ahead of them to battle (cf. 9:3); in v. 33 He goes ahead of them to lead them through the desert. Utley - “fight on your behalf” This is an example of “holy war” or herem (BDB 355, e.g., Deut. 2:24; 3:6; 7:2; 20:16–18; Josh. 6:17, 21; 8:26; 10:1, 28, 37; 11:12, 20–21). This is God’s judgment on the Amorites/Canaanites for their sin, not just God favoring His people (cf. Gen. 15:16). God had given the peoples of Canaan many chances to repent, but they would not, so His judgment was upon them. God will also judge His own people when they take up these same Canaanite practices (i.e., the Assyrian and Babylonian exiles)! Here, God is telling His people not to fear but to trust Him because He was on their side (e.g., Deut. 3:22; 20:4; Josh. 10:14, 42; 11:5–6)! (Deuteronomy 1 Commentary) God Has Whatever We Need Deuteronomy 1:30–33 - by Paul Chappell When God led the Children of Israel out of bondage in Egypt, He did not just give them freedom. He led them through the wilderness, providing them with everything they needed along the way. The visible symbol of God’s presence with His people was a constant reminder to them that He would meet their needs. In the daytime, when the desert sun was hot, it was seen as a cloud, offering shade and protection. At night, when the cold winds blew, it appeared as a fire, providing warmth. And day by day, when it was time to travel, the cloud led them toward their next destination. God has not changed. He still has unlimited resources available to meet every need that we have. Yet too often Christians live without accessing what God has promised to provide. We try to make our way on our own, not realizing our inability to orchestrate life alone, and not claiming God’s promised provision. “Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not” (James 4:2). It is a tragedy for a child of God to live as if he were an orphan. Growth Principle: Do not live without the provision for your needs God would give you if you would simply ask. Deuteronomy 1:31 and in the wilderness where you saw how the LORD your God carried you, just as a man carries his son, in all the way which you have walked until you came to this place.' in the wilderness: Ex 16:1-17:16 Ne 9:12-23 Ps 78:14-28 105:39-41 God carried you: De 32:11,12 Ex 19:4 Nu 11:11,12,14 Isa 40:11 46:3,4 63:9 Hos 11:3-4 Ac 13:18 Deuteronomy 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Related Passages: Hosea 11:3-4 Yet it is I who taught Ephraim to walk, I took them in My arms; But they did not know that I healed them. 4I led them with cords of a man, with bonds of love, And I became to them as one who lifts the yoke from their jaws; And I bent down and fed them. THE SUSTENANCE AND SUFFICIENCY OF JEHOVAH and in the wilderness where you saw how the LORD your God carried you, just as a man carries his son, in all the way which you have walked until you came to this place - What a marked contrast is Moses accurate understanding of God, not as one who hated them but cared for them just as a man carries his son. Israel had just come from this wilderness journey but seem to have quickly forgotten how faithfully God had cared for them in this difficult environment! What God had accomplished in the past, He could accomplish in the future! John Maxwell has an interesting comment - God cannot carry those who refuse to go forward with Him. We cannot sense God’s power until we have attempted the impossible. For it is then that He manifests His greatness. (Preacher's Commentary) Notice Moses' focus on the sufficiency of the LORD in Dt 1:30-31 - The LORD your God who goes before you will Himself fight on your behalf...you saw how the LORD your God carried you. - A B Simpson applies this to our lives - "This is the ground of our confidence for all our spiritual victories; this is the answer to all our difficulties and all our fears; we are not sufficient for anything, but Christ is all-sufficient, and we “can do everything through him who gives [us] strength” (Philippians 4:13). When the soul sees the living Christ and His infinite resources, it has the pledge of perfect victory. They could not see God because their eyes were full of their enemies and their own insignificance. Utley - “carried you” (BDB 669, KB 724, Qal PERFECT) can refer to physically bearing someone or something or “sustaining someone.” God as Father (i.e., Parent) is a wonderful biblical, personal family metaphor (cf. Dt 8:5; 32:6; Exod. 4:22; Ps. 27:10; 68:5; 103:13; Pro. 3:12; Isa. 1:2; 63:16; Jer. 3:19; Hos. 11:1–4; Mal. 1:6; Acts 13:18). In the OT “son” is a corporate metaphor for YHWH’s fatherhood for Israel, but it becomes individual to Davidic king and his special royal descendant (i.e., Messiah, Ps. 2:2, 7; Acts 13:33). (Deuteronomy 1 Commentary) F B
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Utley - Covenant disobedience results in covenant curses for Israel (cf. Deuteronomy 27–29) and Moses (cf. Deut. 3:26–27). (Deuteronomy 1 Commentary) Utley on good land - “the good land” This is a recurrent phrase (cf. Exod. 3:8; Deut. 1:35; 3:25; 4:21, 22; 8:7, 20; Josh. 23:13). Good denoted (1) God’s presence (i.e., God is “good,” Ps. 86:5; 100:5; 106:1; 107:1; 118:1, 29; 145:9; and also note the parallelism of Amos 5:4, 6, 14, 15) and (2) “a land flowing with mile and honey” (e.g., Exod. 3:8, 17; 13:5; 33:3; Num. 13:27; 14:8; 16:13, 14; Deut. 6:3; 11:9; 26:9, 15; 27:3; 31:20; Josh. 5:6). (Deuteronomy 1 Commentary) Fathers (forefathers) is used 21 times in Deuteronomy - Deut. 1:35; Deut. 4:31; Deut. 4:37; Deut. 6:18; Deut. 6:23; Deut. 7:8; Deut. 7:12; Deut. 7:13; Deut. 8:1; Deut. 8:18; Deut. 10:15; Deut. 10:22; Deut. 11:9; Deut. 11:21; Deut. 13:17; Deut. 19:8; Deut. 26:3; Deut. 26:15; Deut. 28:11; Deut. 31:7; Deut. 31:20. This repetition emphasizes Israel's reception of the covenant promises made to their forefathers, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob. Deuteronomy 1:36 except Caleb the son of Jephunneh; he shall see it, and to him and to his sons I will give the land on which he has set foot, because he has followed the LORD fully.' Caleb: Nu 13:6,30 26:65 32:12 34:19 Jos 14:6-14 Judges 1:12-15 followed:, Nu 14:24 Deuteronomy 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Related Passages: Numbers 14:6-10+ Joshua the son of Nun and Caleb the son of Jephunneh, of those who had spied out the land, tore their clothes; 7 and they spoke to all the congregation of the sons of Israel, saying, “The land which we passed through to spy out is an exceedingly good land. 8 “If the LORD is pleased with us, then He will bring us into this land and give it to us–a land which flows with milk and honey. 9 “Only do not rebel against the LORD; and do not fear the people of the land, for they will be our prey. Their protection has been removed from them, and the LORD is with us; do not fear them.” 10 But all the congregation said to stone them with stones. Then the glory of the LORD appeared in the tent of meeting to all the sons of Israel. Numbers 14:30+ ‘Surely you (ISRAEL) shall not come into the land in which I swore to settle you, except Caleb the son of Jephunneh and Joshua the son of Nun." (NOTE NO MENTION OF MOSES ENTERING -- GOD KNEW WHAT WOULD HAPPEN IN Nu 20 - see Dt 1:37 below) Joshua 14:8-9, 14 (CALEB) Nevertheless my brethren who went up with me made the heart of the people melt with fear; but I followed the LORD my God fully. 9“So Moses swore on that day, saying, ‘Surely the land on which your foot has trodden will be an inheritance to you and to your children forever, because you have followed the LORD my God fully.’ (14:14) Therefore, Hebron became the inheritance of Caleb the son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite until this day, because he followed the LORD God of Israel fully. THE MERCY OF GOD TO THE FAITHFUL Except Caleb the son of Jephunneh; he shall see it, and to him and to his sons I will give the land on which he has set foot (cf Josh 1:3), because he has followed the LORD fully (NET = "wholeheartedly followed Me"; ESV = "Wholly followed the LORD.") - See it means walk in it, for Moses saw it but was not allowed to walk in it. The crucial phrase is because he has followed the LORD fully. The Masoretic Texts says literally, "he was full (of being) after Yahweh." Belief leads to obedience and obedience brings blessing. In Nu 14:24+ Moses recorded "But My servant Caleb (NOTE DESIGNATION AS "MY SERVANT"), because he has had a different spirit (OBEDIENT SPIRIT) and has followed Me fully (FULLY OBEYED), I will bring into the land which he entered, and his descendants shall take possession of it." Obedience allows us to receive the best God has for us. -- John Maxwell Don't miss the word fully which is the Hebrew word male meaning to be full (complete, consecrated, dedicated), and is translated in the Septuagint with the verb proskeimai (not in NT) which means to be closely attached to, absorbed in, devoted to, a vivid picture of the man Caleb! Nu 14:24+ says "But My servant Caleb, because he has had a different spirit and has followed Me fully (male), I will bring into the land which he entered, and his descendants shall take possession of it." What a contrast Caleb as with most of the nation of Israel after their deliverance from Egypt Moses recording "None of the men who came up from Egypt, from twenty years old and upward, shall see the land which I swore to Abraham, to Isaac and to Jacob; for they did not follow Me fully (male) (Nu 32:11) (Septuagint has proskeimai [read full definition in Liddell-Scott] = maintain allegiance to, adhere to [God], to be closely attached to, involved in, absorbed in, devoted to = THIS DESCRIBES CALEB! DOES IT DESCRIBE YOU?) Could it be said of you (or me) that you follow the LORD fully? This is the path of blessing in the Old and New Testaments! Remember the writer of Hebrews who exhort his readers to "not be sluggish, but imitators of those who through faith and patience inherit the promises." (Hebrews 6:12+) Caleb - 35v - Num. 13:6; Num. 13:30; Num. 14:6; Num. 14:24; Num. 14:30; Num. 14:38; Num. 26:65; Num. 32:12; Num. 34:19; Deut. 1:36; Jos. 14:6; Jos. 14:13; Jos. 14:14; Jos. 15:13; Jos. 15:14; Jos. 15:16; Jos. 15:17; Jos. 15:18; Jos. 21:12; Jdg. 1:12; Jdg. 1:13; Jdg. 1:14; Jdg. 1:15; Jdg. 1:20; Jdg. 3:9; 1 Sam. 30:14; 1 Chr. 2:18; 1 Chr. 2:19; 1 Chr. 2:42; 1 Chr. 2:46; 1 Chr. 2:48; 1 Chr. 2:49; 1 Chr. 2:50; 1 Chr. 4:15; 1 Chr. 6:56 Utley on followed me fully - Fully "means “wholeheartedly” (Piel PERFECT). It refers to one without mixed motives; Caleb loved YHWH with all his heart and followed Him. It is a metaphor of true devotion (e.g., Nu. 14:24; 32:11–12; Josh. 14:8, 9, 14; 1 Ki 11:6). It is similar to the phrase, “with all your heart and with all your soul” (cf. Deut. 6:5; 10:12; 13:3; 30:2; 1 Kgs. 9:4; 11:4). (Deuteronomy 1 Commentary) Merrill - With his whole mind, heart, and soul, Caleb determined to do the will of God. Nothing else mattered to him. This commendation is used only of Caleb and Joshua (Num 14:24; 32:11, 12; Josh 14:8, 9, 14) and of David (1 Kgs 11:6). and his descendants would take ownership of the land he had already claimed by walking over it. Those who step out in faith and claim the victory in the name of the Lord have every right to have hope in him. (Cornerstone Biblical Commentary) It is important to note the reiteration of the phrase I will give the land, for this indicates clearly that God's covenant with the patriarchs was immutable. When God swears a covenant oath, He keeps it (cf Faithfulness). This is good news for us in the New Covenant by grace through faith. So if you think you can do anything to abrogate God's New Covenant promises to you, than you do not understand the faithfulness of God and the immutability of His covenant promises! You can never lose your salvation dear Arminian! (See What is Arminianism, and is it biblical? | GotQuestions.org) J
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Utley on angry - The VERB “angry” (BDB 60, KB 72, Hithpael PERFECT) is from the NOUN for “nostril” or “nose.” Apparently it referred to (1) the flaring of the nostril as a physical sign of anger or (2) snorting a nasal sound. This term is used consistently for divine anger (Anthropomorphic Language) (cf. Exod. 32:12; Deut. 1:37; 4:21; 9:8, 20; 2 Kgs. 24:20). Another use of this word in connection to deity is the phrase, “slow to anger,” which emphasizes God’s patience and longsuffering (e.g., Exod. 34:6; Num. 14:18; Neh. 9:17; Pro. 14:29). (Deuteronomy 1 Commentary) On account (1558)(galal) is masculine noun particle occurs ten times in the Hebrew scriptures, always in the construct state with the preposition be ("with, in, by"), and is best translated "because of," "for the sake of," "on account of." Galal apparently is derived from from a root meaning to roll, and signifies primarily a turn in events, a circumstance, an occasion or reason. The Hebrew phrase "be galal" thus indicates why something is done. Thus "the LORD blessed the Egyptian’s house on account of Joseph" (Ge. 39:5). "Please say that you are my sister so that it may go well with me because of you" (Gen. 12:13) Laban said "I have divined that the LORD has blessed me on your (JACOB) account.” (Gen. 30:27). Galal - 10x in 10v account(6), because(3), because*(1). - Gen. 12:13; Gen. 30:27; Gen. 39:5; Deut. 1:37; Deut. 15:10; Deut. 18:12; 1 Ki. 14:16; Jer. 11:17; Jer. 15:4; Mic. 3:12 So Near And Yet So Far Back in Canada’s early days, pioneers were taking shelter in Fort Babine. When supplies were nearly exhausted, Victor Clark and a young guide left the fort and walked to the town of Hazelton to get food. On their way back to the fort, snow began to fall. Soon the two travelers were chilled to the bone by a stinging wind and were unable to follow the trail in the darkness. Forced to stop, they built a fire and spent a miserable night. Then as light slowly dawned, they saw the fort with its warmth and comfort—only a few hundred yards away from where they had stopped. So near and yet so far! The Israelites were at the very border of the Promised Land (Numbers 13). Caleb and Joshua, the two courageous spies, had brought back the lush foods of Canaan and encouraged the people to take possession of the land (Nu 13:26,30). But the people doubted and condemned themselves to 40 years of wandering and death in the desert (14:28-30). They too were so near and yet so far away! A Prayer Dear Jesus, I admit that I am a sinner, and I ask for Your forgiveness. I believe that You died and took my punishment. I trust You as my Savior and Lord. Now is the time to choose the Lord—later may never come. Deuteronomy 1:38 Joshua the son of Nun, who stands before you, he shall enter there; encourage him, for he will cause Israel to inherit it. Joshua: Nu 13:8,16 Nu 14:30,38 Nu 26:65 stands: Ex 17:9-14 24:13 33:11 1Sa 16:22 Pr 22:29 encourage him: De 3:28 Dt 31:7,8,14,23 Nu 27:18-23 Jos 1:1,6-9 Deuteronomy 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Related Passages: Exodus 24:13+ So Moses arose with Joshua his servant, and Moses went up to the mountain of God. Exodus 33:11+ Thus the LORD used to speak to Moses face to face, just as a man speaks to his friend. When Moses returned to the camp, his servant Joshua, the son of Nun, a young man, would not depart from the tent. Numbers 14:30+ ‘Surely you shall not come into the land in which I swore to settle you, except Caleb the son of Jephunneh and Joshua the son of Nun. Numbers 14:38+ But Joshua the son of Nun and Caleb the son of Jephunneh remained alive out of those men who went to spy out the land. Deuteronomy 3:28+ ‘But charge Joshua and encourage him and strengthen him, for he shall go across at the head of this people, and he will give them as an inheritance the land which you will see.’ Deuteronomy 31:7-8+ Then Moses called to Joshua and said to him in the sight of all Israel, “Be strong and courageous, for you shall go with this people into the land which the LORD has sworn to their fathers to give them, and you shall give it to them as an inheritance. 8 “The LORD is the one who goes ahead of you; He will be with you. He will not fail you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.” Deuteronomy 31:14+ Then the LORD said to Moses, “Behold, the time for you to die is near; call Joshua, and present yourselves at the tent of meeting, that I may commission him.” So Moses and Joshua went and presented themselves at the tent of meeting. Deuteronomy 31:23+ Then He commissioned Joshua the son of Nun, and said, “Be strong and courageous, for you shall bring the sons of Israel into the land which I swore to them, and I will be with you.” JOSHUA GOD'S CHOICE TO REPLACE MOSES Joshua the son of Nun, who stands before you, he shall enter there - NET, NLT, NIV = "your assistant." Joshua had been Moses' servant from the time in Exodus (Ex 24:13, Ex 33:11). God's leaders may falter and fall, but God's plan stands. The commissioning of Joshua takes place in Dt 31:14-23+. (Ex 24:13; 33:11; Nu 11:28; cp. for the meaning of the phrase Deut 10:8; 18:7; Da 1:5). See Who was Joshua in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Utley - The phrase, “who stands before you,” is a Hebrew idiom which refers to a leader. Joshua was the right-hand man of Moses and this may be a prophecy of his future leadership role. (Deuteronomy 1 Commentary) (Septuagint of stands before - paristemi in perfect tense = it describes Joshua's state as placed beside Moses, put at his disposal) Encourage him, for he will cause (enable) Israel to inherit it - IT is "the good land" (Dt 1:35) "Encourage him, because he will enable Israel to inherit the land." (Dt 1:38NET) Moses is charged to not have a pity-party but press on in the role God had given him as Israel's leader. Moses obeyed and shortly before he died he issued the command to be strong to all of Israel (Dt 31:6) and then to Joshua (Dt 31:7). Encourage is the Hebrew verb chazaq and means to encourage one to be strong and is translated in the Septuagint in this passage with the verb katischuo (in aorist imperative) which means to be strong against an enemy and thus to prevail over them, vanquishing them! THOUGHT - Note well that ALL men need encouragement, even those we categorize as great like Joshua. Is there some spiritual leader/pastor/teacher you need to encourage today? Just do it! (See Spurgeon's sermon - Deuteronomy 1:38 Encourage Your Minister) Pulpit Commentary - In Dt 1:8 and Dt 1:21, the land is spoken of as to be possessed by the Israelites; here it is spoken of as to be inherited by them. The former has reference to their having to wrest the land by force from the Canaanites (יָרַשׁ, to occupy by force, to dispossess; cf. Dt 2:12, 21, 22, where the verb is rendered by "destroyed''); the latter (inherited) has reference to their receiving the land as a heritage (נָןחל) from God, who, when he divided to the nations their inheritance, assigned Canaan to the children of Israel (Dt 32:8). "Joshua the executor of the inheritance" (Schroeder). (Deuteronomy 1 Exposition) Guzik links Joshua with Jesus - Moses was the great law giver, and represented relationship with God through the Law. This could give a person a wilderness kind of relationship with God, but could never bring them into the Promised Land kind of relationship with God. Only Joshua could do that – and the Hebrew name Joshua exactly corresponds to the name Jesus. Only Jesus can bring us into a Promised Land relationship with God. (Deuteronomy) Encourage (strengthen) (02388) chazaq conveys the basic meaning of to be or become strong, to make strong or strengthen. Used in the charge "Be strong and courageous" (see uses below). Deuteronomy 3:28 ‘But charge Joshua and encourage him and strengthen him, for he shall go across at the head of this people, and he will give them as an inheritance the land which you will see.’ Deuteronomy 11:8 “You shall therefore keep every commandment which I am commanding you today, so that you may be strong and go in and possess the land into which you are about to cross to possess it; (NOTE STRENGTH IS LINKED TO OBEDIENCE) Deuteronomy 31:6 (MOSES ADDRESSING ALL ISRAEL) “Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid or tremble at them, for the LORD your God is the one who goes with you. He will not fail you or forsake you.” Deuteronomy 31:7 Then Moses called to Joshua and said to him in the sight of all Israel, Be strong and courageous, for you shall go with this people into the land which the LORD has sworn to their fathers to give them, and you shall give it to them as an inheritance. Deuteronomy 31:23 Then He commissioned Joshua the son of Nun, and said, “Be strong and courageous, for you shall bring the sons of Israel into the land which I swore to them, and I will be with you.” Joshua 1:6 (JEHOVAH TO JOSHUA) “Be strong and courageous, for you shall give this people possession of the land which I swore to their fathers to give them. Joshua 1:7 (JEHOVAH TO JOSHUA) “Only Be strong and very courageous; be careful to do according to all the law which Moses My servant commanded you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, so that you may have success wherever you go. Joshua 1:9 (JEHOVAH TO JOSHUA) “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:18 (JEHOVAH TO JOSHUA) “Anyone who rebels against your command and does not obey your words in all that you command him, shall be put to death; only Be strong and courageous.” Joshua 10:25 Joshua then said to them, “Do not fear or be dismayed! Be strong and courageous, for thus the LORD will do to all your enemies with whom you fight.” Joshua 23:6 “Be very firm, then, to keep and do all that is written in the book of the law of Moses, so that you may not turn aside from it to the right hand or to the left, Deuteronomy 1:38 (Morning and Evening) -
Deuteronômio 1
Utley - Notice the parallel descriptions of Israel: 1. “You would not listen”—BDB 1033, KB 1570, Qal PERFECT 2. “You rebelled against the command”—BDB 598, KB 632, Hiphil IMPERFECT 3. “Acted presumptuously”—BDB 267, KB 268, Hiphil IMPERFECT If Israel would have listened to YHWH earlier and done this very thing they would have successful, but by doing it now it shows their continual self-asserting waywardness! This context clearly shows that obedience is integrally related to His covenant promises, presence, and power! (Deuteronomy 1 Commentary) Deuteronomy 1:44 "The Amorites who lived in that hill country came out against you and chased you as bees do, and crushed you from Seir to Hormah. chased you: De 28:25 32:30 Ps 118:12 Isa 7:18 Hormah: Nu 14:45 21:3 Deuteronomy 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries A Swarm of Bees MOSES SUMMARIZES ISRAEL'S DEFEAT DUE TO DISOBEDIENCE The Amorites who lived in that hill country came out against (confronted) you and chased you as (like a swarm of) bees do, and crushed you (struck you down, beat you down, routed you) from Seir (Edom) to Hormah (cf Ex. 23:28; Ps. 118:12; Is. 7:18) - The prophecy was fulfilled! What a picture. One can envision the frightened Israelites running as from a swarm of angry bees for their lives only to be caught and crushed! Interestingly the Hebrew word for bee is deborah. Related Resource: Special Topic: The Pre-Israelite Inhabitants of Palestine - Bob Utley Chased you as bees presents a vivid metaphorical picture - When bees are provoked or disturbed, the whole swarm attack and pursue whatever annoys them, with great courage and fury, and sometimes are a most formidable enemy. They were so troublesome in some districts of Crete, that, according to Pliny, the inhabitants were actually compelled to forsake their homes. Alian reports, that some places in Scythia were formerly inaccessible on account of the numerous swarms of bees with which they were infested. Mr. Park relates, that some of his associates imprudently attempted to rob a numerous hive which they found in their way. The exasperated little animals rushed out to defend their property, and attacked them with so much fury, that they quickly compelled the whole company of men, horses, and asses, to scamper off in all directions, The horses were never recovered, and a number of the asses were so severely stung, that they died the next day. Merrill explains that "The idea is that Israel penetrated the lower Judean hills somewhere east of Hormah and was defeated in an area stretching from Hormah in the west to Seir (= Edom) in the east, a distance of about fifty miles. (New American Commentary – Volume 4: Deuteronomy) Seir (Edom) in Deuteronomy - Deut. 1:2; Deut. 1:44; Deut. 2:1; Deut. 2:4; Deut. 2:5; Deut. 2:8; Deut. 2:12; Deut. 2:22; Deut. 2:29; Deut. 33:2; Hormah (Derived from haram = ban, exterminate) - Place name meaning, “split rock” or “cursed for destruction.”City marking the limit of the Canaanite rout of the Israelites after the failed Israelite attempt to invade Canaan that followed the report of the twelve spies (Numbers 14:45). Though the exact location of Hormah is not known, it was in the territory assigned to the tribe of Simeon (Joshua 19:4). The site controlled the east-west road in the Beersheba Valley and the north-south road to Hebron. Israel gained brief victory there (Numbers 21:3) after their earlier defeat (Numbers 14:45; compare Deuteronomy 1:44). The list of kings Joshua defeated includes Hormah (Joshua 12:14); the battle description says Judah and Simeon combined to take Hormah after Joshua's death (Judges 1:1 ,Judges 1:1,1:17), the city earlier being called Zephath Utley - Hormah means “place of the ban.” The term (BDB 356) means “devoted to destruction,” which reflects Num. 21:3. It was originally called Zephath (cf. Jdgs. 1:17). After the Israelites destroyed it, they renamed it devoted/destroyed to/for YHWH (like Jericho, Joshua 6–7). It was located in the tribal allocation of Simeon, northeast of Beersheba. (Deuteronomy 1 Commentary) Crushed (beat down, hammer, broke, shattered)(03807) kathath means to beat, crush by beating and is used to describe the destruction of the golden calf (Dt. 9:21 = "I took your sinful thing, the calf which you had made, and burned it with fire and crushed it"); and in the eschatological hope of hammering swords into plowshares (Isa. 2:4; Mic. 4:3). It can also be used figuratively for destroying an enemy (Dt. 1:44 where the LXX = titrosko = to inflict a wound - injure, damage in the picturesque imperfect tense = over and over) and in Nu 14:45 of the enemy destroying Israel's futile attempt to take the Promised Land after refusing to take the promise from God! Utley The VERB (BDB 510, KB 507, Hiphil IMPERFECT) means “to beat into pieces.” This is recorded in Num. 14:45. The ADJECTIVE was used of beating oil out of olives (cf. Exod. 29:40; Num. 28:5). It is used for the destruction of (1) the golden calf (cf. Deut. 9:21) and (2) of the smashing of idols (cf. Micah 1:7). (Deuteronomy 1 Commentary) John Maxwell - A false security brings defeat. The people failed to understand the covenant. In the beginning they would not trust God because the task was too big. Now they trust their weapons and the task is small. They did not see God as their provider and protector, nor were they ready to go up when God commanded. They were only willing to go when “everyone of you had girded on his weapons of war” (v. 41). Contrast their attitude with that of David, the great warrior-king who said, “Some trust in chariots, and some in horses; / But we will remember the name of the LORD our God” (Ps. 20:7). On what do we rely for security? Throughout the centuries, man has attempted to build walls of security around his possessions. A classic example is the Great Wall of China. It was started by the Emperor Shih Huong-ti, a merciless and ruthless tyrant. By brute force he had defeated feudal war lords and created an empire for himself. And then, as always happens, he started worrying that someone might do to him what he had done to them, so he decided to wall his country off completely from the rest of the world. The emperor began to build the Great Wall in 228 B.C., and eventually it stretched across the entire northern border of the country. It is built of bricks, stones, and mud, and has high towers every several hundred feet—twenty thousand towers in all. It took hundreds of thousands of men over fifteen years to build the wall. Finally the wall was completed and the empire, at the cost of thousands of lives, was seemingly secure. However, with the death of the emperor, the empire fell apart. Ironically, it was not overthrown by invaders, but by rebellion from within. That old story is not a new story. In trying to remain secure within “false walls,” the Israelites were soundly defeated. (Preacher's Commentary) Deuteronomy 1:45 "Then you returned and wept before the LORD; but the LORD did not listen to your voice nor give ear to you. Ps 78:34 Heb 12:17 Deuteronomy 1 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Related Passage: Hebrews 12:17+ (ESAU'S REMORSE) For you know that even afterwards, when he desired to inherit the blessing, he was rejected, for he found no place for repentance, though he sought for it with tears. TEARS OF REMORSE NOT REPENTANCE Then you returned and wept before the LORD; but the LORD did not listen to your voice nor give ear to you - When the divine die is cast, it is too late for tears! God's attributes include longsuffering, but can expire when He knows in His omniscience that a heart is hopelessly hardened against him (cf Pharaoh in Ex 9:12+). They may have wept before the LORD, but not because of their sin of unbelief and the fact that they had grieved the heart of the LORD. They wept because of the irrevocable consequences of their sin much like Esau (Hebrews 12:17+). Notice the bitter irony for just as Israel had refused to listen to the voice of Jehovah, Jehovah refused to listen to their voice. Actually note the combination of not listen and not give ear, make God's refusal to accept their whining crystal clear! THOUGHT - I am reminded of the warning in Ps 66:18+ "If I regard wickedness in my heart, The Lord will not hear." That was true of Israel and it is true of us today even as His beloved children. We cannot come to God with unclean hearts and expect Him to hear our prayers! Utley - It was not that God did not hear them, but He did not hearken unto them. He heard them, but said “No.” Sin always brings consequences, even forgiven sin! (Deuteronomy 1 Commentary) Sin will take you further than you ever wanted to stray! Cost you more than you ever dreamed you would pay! Keep you longer than you ever thought you would stay! J