Page 36 - Old Testament Survey Student Textbook

The book of Numbers

Deuteronomy
Deuteronomy is also known as the second giving of the Law. Moses is likely to
be the author. The date of Deuteronomy is unknown but any time after
exodus from Egypt. The theme(s) include: Same Covenant, new Generation,
new Setting. The main message of Deuteronomy focused on restating the
terms of God’s covenant, Moses reminds the people of God’s past
faithfulness, charges them to remember His law, and presents the choice and
consequence of obedience or disobedience.

Chapter 1-3 is a Historical Prologue. Chapter 1-3 narrates the past commitment of God to his people.
These initial chapters contrast God’s faithfulness with Israel’s unfaithfulness. An 11-day trip took 40
years, but God was faithful to His covenant (verses 1-8). After stressing strife (verses 9-18), Moses traces
Israel’s trip from Sinai to Kadesh, juxtaposing God’s promises and Canaan’s prosperity with Israel’s
disbelief, rebellion and penalty, for nation and Moses (19-46). After a period of punishment, Israel
journeys from Kadesh to Moab. Despite Israel’s repeated rebellion, God did not abandon His people but
He protects and provides for them in the desert (7). Just as God had provided a homeland for Edom,
Moab and Ammon Abram’s relatives, He had prepared a place for Israel (verses 1-25). He gave them
victory over their enemies, Sihon, Hesbon, Og-Bashan, land for Rueben, Gad, ½ Manasseh (2:26-3:22),
but Moses was not allowed to enter (23-29).

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