The need for Deuteronomy

“Deuteronomy” means “second law-giving.” One might wonder why God needed to give the Mosaic Law again. Isn’t that a waste of valuable Bible space? As it turns out, there are four good reasons why the people needed the Law given to them again.

First, there was a new generation. Humans have short memories so the law needed to be repeated. It was important that they know God’s word afresh and realize how important it is to obey God. Second, there was a new challenge. They would no longer be pilgrims; they now had to fight battles. The best way to prepare for the future is to understand the past. Third, there was a new leader. Moses was about to die, and Joshua would take over the leadership of the nation. So they needed to be grounded in the word and in the Lord to follow Joshua. Fourth, there were new temptations. Moses wanted them not only to possess the land, but also to maintain that possession, so he warned them of the dangers and gave them the way of success.

Many Christians need to hear God’s word again and step out by faith to claim their inheritance in Christ. The Bible can help you just like it helped the Israelites if you let it become implanted in your heart (James 1:21).

Kyle Campbell