12/13/2022 – Day 289 – Deuteronomy 1 – 3/ Introduction from Henry H. Halley’s Bible commentary, 24th edition, Copyright @ 1965 / 1 of 2
Topical Summary:
“Moses’ Farewell Addresses
Recounting of History
Rehearsal of Principal Laws
Solemn Warnings
This book contains:
Prediction of Prophet like unto Moses (18: 15-19) / What Christ called the Great Commandment (6:4) / Words Christ quoted to the Tempter (6:13, 16; 8:3). / Some of the world’s Finest Eloquence
The word ‘Deuteronomy” means ‘Second Law,’ or ‘Repetition of the Law.’ In Exodus, Leviticus and Numbers, laws had been promulgated, at intervals. Now, their wanderings over, on the eve of entrance into Canaan, these laws were rehearsed and expounded, in anticipation of , and with applications to settled life.
Some passages, for genuine eloquence, are unsurpassed in literature, even by Demosthenes, Cicero, Pitt or Webster.
Chapters 1,2,3. From Sinai to the Jordan
An epitome, in retrospect, of Numbers 1 – 33. After one of the noblest and most heroic accomplishments of the ages, Moses’ final appeal to God to let him go over the Jordan, was denied (3: 23-28), because God had something better for him, in a Better World.”
My reflections:
- Matthew Henry’s quote in the next post – 2 of 2 connects many of my reflections in one false swoop.
- The people, excepting Joshua and Caleb, did not trust and obey. So the Lord expresses his anger out of love. The people repent, followed by an acclamation that they will fight to take the land. The Lord instructs them: “Don’t do it; I won’t be with you as I would have been with you before.” Once again, they disobey, and get beat down by the Amorites. Once again, what don’t you get: Just trust and obey.
Once again, from our “How to be Holy” book study by Peter Kreeft:
“God loves us more than we love ourselves. God’s deepest desire is for our peace and joy. We can’t lose because God can’t lose! Insofar was we believe that identity, we will love His will as we love our own. We will then fully embrace it and become holy.” And, my text scheduled post is the next chapter of this , “Holiness is Simple”. Simple: Just trust and obey!
Soli Deo Gloria!
Your brother in Christ,
Jimmy