Deuteronomy 29
BSB1 These are the words of the covenant that the LORD commanded Moses to make with the Israelites in the land of Moab, in addition to the covenant He had made with them at Horeb. 2 Moses summoned all Israel and proclaimed to them, “You have seen with your own eyes everything the LORD did in Egypt to Pharaoh, to all his officials, and to all his land. 3 You saw with your own eyes the great trials, and those miraculous signs and wonders. 4 Yet to this day the LORD has not given you a mind to understand, eyes to see, or ears to hear. 5 For forty years I led you in the wilderness, yet your clothes and sandals did not wear out. 6 You ate no bread and drank no wine or strong drink, so that you might know that I am the LORD your God. 7 When you reached this place, Sihon king of Heshbon and Og king of Bashan came out against us in battle, but we defeated them. 8 We took their land and gave it as an inheritance to the Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh. 9 So keep and follow the words of this covenant, that you may prosper in all you do. 10 All of you are standing today before the LORD your God—you leaders of tribes, elders, officials, and all the men of Israel, 11 your children and wives, and the foreigners in your camps who cut your wood and draw your water— 12 so that you may enter into the covenant of the LORD your God, which He is making with you today, and into His oath, 13 and so that He may establish you today as His people, and He may be your God as He promised you and as He swore to your fathers, to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. 14 I am making this covenant and this oath not only with you, 15 but also with those who are standing here with us today in the presence of the LORD our God, as well as with those who are not here today. 16 For you yourselves know how we lived in the land of Egypt and how we passed through the nations on the way here. 17 You saw the abominations and idols among them made of wood and stone, of silver and gold. 18 Make sure there is no man or woman, clan or tribe among you today whose heart turns away from the LORD our God to go and worship the gods of those nations. Make sure there is no root among you that bears such poisonous and bitter fruit, 19 because when such a person hears the words of this oath, he invokes a blessing on himself, saying, ‘I will have peace, even though I walk in the stubbornness of my own heart.’ This will bring disaster on the watered land as well as the dry. 20 The LORD will never be willing to forgive him. Instead, His anger and jealousy will burn against that man, and every curse written in this book will fall upon him. The LORD will blot out his name from under heaven 21 and single him out from all the tribes of Israel for disaster, according to all the curses of the covenant written in this Book of the Law. 22 Then the generation to come—your sons who follow you and the foreigner who comes from a distant land—will see the plagues of the land and the sicknesses the LORD has inflicted on it. 23 All its soil will be a burning waste of sulfur and salt, unsown and unproductive, with no plant growing on it, just like the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, Admah and Zeboiim, which the LORD overthrew in His fierce anger. 24 So all the nations will ask, ‘Why has the LORD done such a thing to this land? Why this great outburst of anger?’ 25 And the people will answer, ‘It is because they abandoned the covenant of the LORD, the God of their fathers, which He made with them when He brought them out of the land of Egypt. 26 They went and served other gods, and they worshiped gods they had not known—gods that the LORD had not given to them. 27 Therefore the anger of the LORD burned against this land, and He brought upon it every curse written in this book. 28 The LORD uprooted them from their land in His anger, rage, and great wrath, and He cast them into another land, where they are today.’ 29 The secret things belong to the LORD our God, but the things revealed belong to us and to our children forever, so that we may follow all the words of this law.
Study Notes — Deuteronomy 29
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from Deuteronomy 29
- Themes from Deuteronomy 29
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on Deuteronomy 29
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
The chapter begins with Moses recalling the covenant that God made with the Israelites at Horeb, and how God has been with them throughout their journey, providing for their needs and protecting them from their enemies (Deuteronomy 29:1-3). Moses then warns the Israelites not to make a covenant with the inhabitants of the land they are about to enter, lest they be led astray and worship other gods (Deuteronomy 29:10-13, 17-21). The chapter concludes with a warning of the consequences of disobedience and a call to faithfulness, emphasizing the importance of remembering the covenant and teaching it to future generations (Deuteronomy 29:22-29).
Context for the Chapter
Deuteronomy 29 is part of the larger narrative of the book of Deuteronomy, which is a series of sermons given by Moses to the Israelites before they enter the Promised Land. The chapter is situated in the context of the Israelites' preparation to enter the land, and serves as a warning and a call to faithfulness as they begin their new life under God's covenant. This chapter is also connected to the broader biblical narrative, as it points forward to the new covenant that will be established through Christ.
Heart Application
As we reflect on Deuteronomy 29, we are called to examine our own hearts and lives, considering whether we are faithful to God's covenant and obedient to His will. We are also reminded of the importance of remembering God's works and faithfulness, lest we forget and turn to other gods. May we be encouraged to follow God's revealed will, even as we acknowledge the mystery of His secret things.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
Deuteronomy chapter 29 is about God's covenant with the Israelites and the importance of faithfulness and obedience. The chapter warns against idolatry and disobedience, and emphasizes the importance of remembering God's works and faithfulness. As we read this chapter, we are reminded of the need to follow God's will and to trust in His sovereignty, even when we do not understand all the details of His plan. In Deuteronomy 29:29, we see that God's secret things are not for us to know, but we are to follow the things that are revealed to us.
Voices from the Church
“The covenant which God made with the Israelites was not only a covenant of works, but also a covenant of grace, for it was grounded in the promise of God's mercy and faithfulness.”
— John Calvin
“The secret things of God are not for us to know, but the things which are revealed are for us and for our children, that we may follow all the words of this law and live according to God's will.”
— Charles Spurgeon
Outline for Preaching
- Introduction to the Covenant (Deuteronomy 29:1-3) — Moses recalls the covenant that God made with the Israelites at Horeb, and how God has been with them throughout their journey.
- Warning Against Idolatry (Deuteronomy 29:10-13) — Moses warns the Israelites against making a covenant with the inhabitants of the land and worshiping other gods.
- The Consequences of Disobedience (Deuteronomy 29:17-21) — The chapter warns of the consequences of disobedience, emphasizing the importance of following God's will.
- The Balance Between Sovereignty and Responsibility (Deuteronomy 29:22-29) — The chapter balances God's sovereignty with human responsibility, emphasizing the importance of following God's revealed will while acknowledging the mystery of His secret things.
- Conclusion and Call to Faithfulness (Deuteronomy 29:29) — The chapter concludes with a call to faithfulness and a reminder of the importance of following God's revealed will.
Core Doctrines
- The Covenant
- Deuteronomy 29 teaches us about the covenant between God and the Israelites, emphasizing the importance of faithfulness and obedience.
- The Sovereignty of God
- The chapter highlights the sovereignty of God, emphasizing the mystery of His secret things and the importance of trusting in His will.
- The Importance of Remembering
- The chapter emphasizes the importance of remembering God's works and faithfulness, lest we forget and turn to other gods.
- The Consequences of Disobedience
- The chapter warns of the consequences of disobedience, emphasizing the importance of following God's will and avoiding idolatry.
Lessons from Deuteronomy 29
- The Importance of Faithfulness — Deuteronomy 29 teaches us about the importance of faithfulness and obedience, emphasizing the need to follow God's will and avoid idolatry.
- The Sovereignty of God — The chapter highlights the sovereignty of God, emphasizing the mystery of His secret things and the importance of trusting in His will.
- The Consequences of Disobedience — The chapter warns of the consequences of disobedience, emphasizing the importance of following God's will and avoiding idolatry.
- The Balance Between Sovereignty and Responsibility — The chapter balances God's sovereignty with human responsibility, emphasizing the importance of following God's revealed will while acknowledging the mystery of His secret things.
- The Call to Faithfulness — The chapter concludes with a call to faithfulness, reminding us of the importance of following God's will and trusting in His sovereignty.
Themes from Deuteronomy 29
- Covenant — The chapter emphasizes the importance of the covenant between God and the Israelites, highlighting the need for faithfulness and obedience.
- Faithfulness — The chapter teaches us about the importance of faithfulness, emphasizing the need to follow God's will and avoid idolatry.
- Sovereignty — The chapter highlights the sovereignty of God, emphasizing the mystery of His secret things and the importance of trusting in His will.
- Disobedience — The chapter warns of the consequences of disobedience, emphasizing the importance of following God's will and avoiding idolatry.
- Responsibility — The chapter balances God's sovereignty with human responsibility, emphasizing the importance of following God's revealed will while acknowledging the mystery of His secret things.
Questions for Meditation
- What is the central theme of Deuteronomy 29, and how does it relate to the broader narrative of the book of Deuteronomy?
- How does the chapter emphasize the importance of faithfulness and obedience, and what are the consequences of disobedience?
- What does the chapter teach us about the balance between God's sovereignty and human responsibility, and how can we apply this to our own lives?
- How does the chapter point forward to the new covenant that will be established through Christ, and what implications does this have for our understanding of God's plan of salvation?
- What are some ways in which we can apply the teachings of Deuteronomy 29 to our own lives, and how can we cultivate a deeper sense of faithfulness and obedience to God's will?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. Introduction to the Covenant (Deuteronomy 29:1-3)
| 29:1 | Moses recalls the covenant that God made with the Israelites at Horeb, and how God has been with them throughout their journey. |
| 29:2 | Moses reminds the Israelites of the covenant that God made with them, and how God has been faithful to them throughout their history. |
2. Warning Against Idolatry (Deuteronomy 29:10-13)
| 29:10 | Moses warns the Israelites against making a covenant with the inhabitants of the land and worshiping other gods. |
| 29:11 | Moses emphasizes the importance of faithfulness and obedience, lest the Israelites be led astray and worship other gods. |
3. The Consequences of Disobedience (Deuteronomy 29:17-21)
| 29:17 | The chapter warns of the consequences of disobedience, emphasizing the importance of following God's will and avoiding idolatry. |
| 29:18 | Moses warns the Israelites against the dangers of idolatry, emphasizing the importance of faithfulness and obedience. |
4. The Balance Between Sovereignty and Responsibility (Deuteronomy 29:22-29)
| 29:22 | The chapter balances God's sovereignty with human responsibility, emphasizing the importance of following God's revealed will while acknowledging the mystery of His secret things. |
| 29:23 | Moses reminds the Israelites of the importance of remembering God's works and faithfulness, lest they forget and turn to other gods. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the central theme of Deuteronomy 29?
The central theme of Deuteronomy 29 is the covenant between God and the Israelites, emphasizing the importance of faithfulness and obedience. As seen in Deuteronomy 29:1-3, Moses recalls the covenant that God made with the Israelites at Horeb, and how God has been faithful to them throughout their history.
How does the chapter emphasize the importance of faithfulness and obedience?
The chapter emphasizes the importance of faithfulness and obedience by warning against idolatry and disobedience, and emphasizing the consequences of disobedience. In Deuteronomy 29:10-13, Moses warns the Israelites against making a covenant with the inhabitants of the land and worshiping other gods.
What does the chapter teach us about the balance between God's sovereignty and human responsibility?
The chapter balances God's sovereignty with human responsibility, emphasizing the importance of following God's revealed will while acknowledging the mystery of His secret things. As seen in Deuteronomy 29:29, the chapter reminds us that the secret things belong to God, but the things revealed belong to us and to our children forever.
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Deuteronomy 29:1 → Exodus 19:1-6 | The covenant that God made with the Israelites at Horeb is recalled in Deuteronomy 29:1, which is also referenced in Exodus 19:1-6. |
| 2 | Deuteronomy 29:10-13 → Joshua 23:1-16 | The warning against idolatry in Deuteronomy 29:10-13 is also seen in Joshua 23:1-16, where Joshua warns the Israelites against making a covenant with the inhabitants of the land. |
| 3 | Deuteronomy 29:17-21 → Leviticus 26:1-46 | The consequences of disobedience in Deuteronomy 29:17-21 are also seen in Leviticus 26:1-46, where God warns the Israelites of the consequences of disobedience. |
| 4 | Deuteronomy 29:22-29 → Hebrews 8:6-13 | The balance between God's sovereignty and human responsibility in Deuteronomy 29:22-29 is also seen in Hebrews 8:6-13, where the author discusses the new covenant that will be established through Christ. |
| 5 | Deuteronomy 29:29 → Romans 11:25-36 | The mystery of God's secret things in Deuteronomy 29:29 is also seen in Romans 11:25-36, where Paul discusses the mystery of God's plan of salvation. |
| 6 | Deuteronomy 29:1-3 → Psalm 105:1-45 | The covenant that God made with the Israelites at Horeb is recalled in Deuteronomy 29:1-3, which is also referenced in Psalm 105:1-45. |
| 7 | Deuteronomy 29:10-13 → Matthew 6:24 | The warning against idolatry in Deuteronomy 29:10-13 is also seen in Matthew 6:24, where Jesus warns against serving two masters. |
| 8 | Deuteronomy 29:17-21 → Luke 12:15 | The consequences of disobedience in Deuteronomy 29:17-21 are also seen in Luke 12:15, where Jesus warns against the dangers of greed and idolatry. |
| 9 | Deuteronomy 29:22-29 → 1 Corinthians 10:1-13 | The balance between God's sovereignty and human responsibility in Deuteronomy 29:22-29 is also seen in 1 Corinthians 10:1-13, where Paul discusses the importance of faithfulness and obedience. |
| 10 | Deuteronomy 29:29 → 1 Timothy 3:16 | The mystery of God's secret things in Deuteronomy 29:29 is also seen in 1 Timothy 3:16, where Paul discusses the mystery of God's plan of salvation. |
Sermons on Deuteronomy 29
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
Be Filled With the Holy Spirit - Part 2 by Jackie Pullinger | In this sermon, the speaker focuses on Acts 1:4-8 and emphasizes the importance of waiting for the gift of the Holy Spirit. He mentions that although some may already feel they hav |
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(Blood Covenant) 2 - Our Covenant With Christ by Milton Green | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of living in covenant with God rather than merely speculating about it. He highlights that covenant is not just a concept, bu |
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You Also Must Be Ready - Part 1 by Derek Prince | This sermon by Derek Prince Ministries delves into the themes of light and darkness, the two harvests of salvation and judgment, the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, and the increase |
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Praying for Revival by Brian Edwards | In this sermon, the speaker discusses the downward spiral of faith in four generations. The great grandparents of the present generation believed in the Christian faith but were in |
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The River of Life by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the preacher discusses a vision that the prophet Ezekiel had about a river of life. The preacher emphasizes that this vision is a prophecy for the Church of the lat |
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The Centrality of Christ by Paul Washer | In this sermon, the preacher uses vivid illustrations to convey the urgency and gravity of the message. He describes a scenario where a village is about to be engulfed by a breache |
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(Through the Bible) Deuteronomy 26-29 by Chuck Smith | In this sermon, Moses addresses the children of Israel and reminds them of the covenant they have with God. He emphasizes that despite witnessing great miracles and signs, they hav |
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Streams in the Desert by Mark Greening | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the different types of deserts that Christians may go through in their lives. These include deserts of bitter loss, insecurity, and alienatio |
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Preaching a Watered-Down Gospel Is Sin by Jeff Noblit | The video is a sermon on Hebrews chapter 5, focusing on the importance of spiritual maturity. The speaker emphasizes the need for believers to move beyond a shallow dependency on b |
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Bitterness by Harold E. Schmul | In this sermon, the preacher begins by expressing his dissatisfaction with a fellow believer whom he considers a compromiser and a danger to their movement. He then discusses the d |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Deuteronomy 29
In Deuteronomy 29, Matthew Henry emphasizes the importance of faithfulness and obedience, warning against the dangers of idolatry and disobedience. Henry notes that the chapter balances God's sovereignty with human responsibility, emphasizing the importance of following God's revealed will while acknowledging the mystery of His secret things. As Henry writes, 'The secret things of God are not for us to know, but the things which are revealed are for us and for our children, that we may follow all the words of this law.' (Deuteronomy 29:29) Henry also highlights the importance of remembering God's works and faithfulness, lest we forget and turn to other gods. Throughout the chapter, Henry emphasizes the practical lessons that can be learned from the Israelites' experiences, and encourages readers to apply these lessons to their own lives. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
The Importance of Remembering
The chapter emphasizes the importance of remembering the covenant and the works of God, lest the Israelites forget and turn to other gods.
The Warning Against Idolatry
Moses warns the Israelites against making a covenant with the inhabitants of the land and worshiping other gods, emphasizing the dangers of idolatry.
The Balance Between Sovereignty and Responsibility
The chapter balances God's sovereignty with human responsibility, emphasizing the importance of following God's revealed will while acknowledging the mystery of His secret things.