Page 61 - Advanced OT Survey Revised

Pictured is a view Moses had from the top of Mt. Nebo of the Promised Land
(looking down toward Jericho – in the distant center you can see Jerusalem)

Significance of Deuteronomy and the Gospel
Deuteronomy is clearly one of the most important books in the Old Testament. First, Jesus quoted
the book of Deuteronomy more than any other book in the Old Testament. Second, Jesus used the
book of Deuteronomy in his own life more than any other book in the Old Testament. For example,
Jesus answered all three of his temptations in the wilderness with quotations from the book of
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Deuteronomy (Luke 4:1–13).

As you read the book, you will see the Gospel laid out for all to see. While Deuteronomy is a
rehash of the Mosaic Law, we can see that keeping the law is a response to God’s grace and not a
means to earn God’s favor. Paul, in Romans, taught that the law reveals sin, and that
righteousness comes by faith (Deut. 30:12-14, that circumcision of the heart is necessary for true
obedience (Deut. 30:6), that keeping the law is the way to love one’s neighbor (Deut. 5_27-29),
and that salvation was for all men, not just the Jewish nation (Deut. 32.43).
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Practical Application: The book of Deuteronomy underscores the importance of God’s Word. It is a
vital part of our lives. Although we are no longer under the Old Testament law, we are still responsible
to submit to the will of God in our lives. Simple obedience brings blessing, and sin has its own
consequences.

None of us is “above the law.” Even Moses, the leader and prophet chosen by God, was required to
obey. The reason that he was not allowed to enter the Promised Land was that he disobeyed the Lord’s
clear command (Numbers 20:13).

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