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Verse
Context
The Choice of Life or Death
18I declare to you today that you will surely perish; you shall not prolong your days in the land that you are crossing the Jordan to possess.19I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you today that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing. Therefore choose life, so that you and your descendants may live,20and that you may love the LORD your God, obey Him, and hold fast to Him. For He is your life, and He will prolong your life in the land that the LORD swore to give to your fathers, to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.”
Sermons





Summary
Commentary
- John Gill
- Tyndale
John Gill Bible Commentary
I call heaven and earth to record this day against you,.... Either, literally understood, the heavens above him, and the earth on which he stood, those inanimate bodies, which are frequently called upon as witnesses to matters of moment and importance; see Deu 4:26; or figuratively, the inhabitants of both, angels and men: that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; had plainly told them in express words what would be the consequence of obedience and disobedience to the law of God; long life, and the blessings of it in the land of Canaan, to those that obey it; death, by various means, and dreadful curses, to those that disobey it; of which see at large Deu 28:16, therefore choose life, that thou and thy seed may live; that is, prefer obedience to the law, and choose to perform that, the consequence of which is life; that they and their posterity might live comfortably and happily, quietly and safely, and constantly, even to the latest ages, in the land of Canaan.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
30:19 life and death . . . blessings and curses: This grammatical structure suggests an equivalence between life and blessing and between death and curses. The essence of a blessing is life, and the essence of a curse is death.
The Choice of Life or Death
18I declare to you today that you will surely perish; you shall not prolong your days in the land that you are crossing the Jordan to possess.19I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you today that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing. Therefore choose life, so that you and your descendants may live,20and that you may love the LORD your God, obey Him, and hold fast to Him. For He is your life, and He will prolong your life in the land that the LORD swore to give to your fathers, to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
A Deadly Choice
By Chuck Smith6.9K31:20DEU 30:19JOS 24:15MAT 27:22HEB 10:26This sermon emphasizes the importance of making the right choice regarding Jesus Christ, highlighting the biblical theme of choosing between life and death. It explores the consequences of our choices, drawing parallels from historical events like Adam and Eve's decision in the Garden of Eden and the people's choice to crucify Jesus over Barabbas. The message stresses the personal responsibility each individual has in deciding their stance towards Jesus and the eternal impact of that choice.
Choices, Deeds & Consequences
By A.W. Tozer5.5K42:40ConsequencesDEU 30:19PRO 14:12MAT 7:13JHN 14:6ACT 2:38ROM 6:231JN 5:12In this sermon, the preacher tells the story of a man who was focused on his own wealth and success. Despite his plans for remodeling and his abundance of grain, the man suddenly falls ill and dies. The preacher emphasizes the importance of considering one's choices and their consequences, both in the past and for the future. He urges the audience to prioritize moral considerations and to listen to the voice of God, who calls us to examine our ways.
Preparing for Hard Times
By David Wilkerson5.1K1:01:00DEU 28:1DEU 30:19MAT 6:33HEB 11:35In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being prepared for hard times and the responsibility of pastors to guide their congregations. He shares his own experiences of seeking God's guidance and prophesying events like the Iraq war. The speaker highlights the need for trust in God and references the biblical story of the Israelites in Egypt, where those who had the blood of the lamb were spared from judgment. He also addresses the spiritual condition of believers, warning against indulging in sinful behaviors like watching inappropriate content. The sermon concludes with a reminder to focus on eternal things and not be tied down to worldly possessions.
A Day to Be Remembered
By Major Ian Thomas2.9K1:02:08Christian LifeEXO 12:46NUM 16:1DEU 1:8DEU 30:19MAT 6:33In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of allowing God to take over and lead us into a new chapter in our lives. He encourages the audience to desire to leave behind the wilderness and experience God's best for them. The preacher reminds them that they can have as much as God is willing to give and they don't have to settle for less. He uses the example of the Israelites entering the Promised Land under Joshua's leadership to illustrate that getting in is just as easy as getting out, as long as they trust and believe in God.
Voices From Hell Speaking to America - Part 6
By Alan Cairns2.6K08:12DEU 30:19PSA 9:17PRO 14:34JER 2:34MAT 12:30This sermon emphasizes the importance of not forgetting the innocent bloodshed and the consequences of a nation turning away from God's covenant mercies. It warns against being divorced from God and His covenant, highlighting the need for nations to remember God to avoid destruction. The message stresses the idea that there is no neutral ground in the spiritual battle, quoting Jesus' words that one is either for Him or against Him, with no middle ground.
Choose Life, That You and Your Descendants Might Live
By Erlo Stegen2.1K1:06:50Choosing LifeDEU 30:19In this sermon, the speaker shares a story about a young man named Roger who is hitchhiking home after his military service. To his surprise, a wealthy older man in a shiny car stops to give him a ride. During the journey, they discuss life and faith. The older man eventually decides to choose Christ and surrender his life to Him. They arrive at Roger's home, and the older man expresses gratitude for the young man's help and declares it as the greatest day of his life.
The Last Call
By Alan Bartley1.8K45:10DEU 30:19PSA 32:5JHN 1:12JHN 8:12ROM 10:132CO 6:2EPH 3:17HEB 3:151JN 5:12REV 3:20This sermon focuses on Revelation 3:20, emphasizing the urgency of responding to Jesus' call to open the door of our hearts to Him. It highlights the consequences of delaying or rejecting this call, the need to let go of sin, and the certainty of salvation when we invite Jesus into our lives.
The Choice
By Chuck Smith1.1K41:25DEU 30:19PSA 16:11PRO 12:28ECC 7:17MAT 16:24JHN 5:24ROM 6:23This sermon emphasizes the importance of making the right choice between the path of life and the path of death, drawing parallels from biblical stories like Adam and Eve's choice in the Garden of Eden, King Zedekiah's decision to rebel against Babylon, and the consequences of wrong choices. It highlights the need to deny self, take up the cross, and follow Jesus for eternal life and joy in God's kingdom.
I Might Follow Him
By Shane Idleman1.0K50:06DEU 30:19MAT 16:24JHN 13:34HEB 3:15REV 2:4The sermon emphasizes the importance of true discipleship, challenging believers to die to self, carry their cross, and follow Christ unconditionally. It highlights the need for a baptism of love, urging individuals to return to their first love for God and to prioritize loving one another. The speaker addresses the dangers of drifting from God's love, the perils of hypocrisy versus struggling in faith, and the critical choice between the way of life and the way of death.
Living by Faith in Future Grace - Lesson 3
By John Piper9831:33:12DEU 30:19PRO 3:5JER 24:7HAB 3:17MAT 6:33ROM 8:32PHP 3:8In this sermon, Pastor John Piper discusses the concept of living by faith and future grace. He emphasizes the importance of relying on God's grace in the present and trusting in His promises for the future. Piper references Romans 8:32, which highlights the past grace of God sacrificing His own Son for us and the assurance that He will freely give us all things. He also shares a personal poem and connects it to the biblical passage from Habakkuk, emphasizing the need to trust in God even when circumstances are difficult.
(Revelations of the Gospel) 3. a Revelation of My Responsibility and God's Grace
By Jason Robinson9551:10:32The True GospelGrace and ResponsibilityDEU 30:19JER 6:16LUK 13:34ROM 5:2ROM 11:61CO 15:102CO 6:1TIT 2:12HEB 4:16REV 22:17Jason Robinson emphasizes the importance of understanding the complete Gospel amidst the confusion of various interpretations in a post-Christian society. He outlines sixteen essential revelations that form the foundation of the true Gospel, including the responsibility of man to respond to God's grace and the necessity of repentance and faith. Robinson stresses that while God's grace is freely given, individuals must actively choose to accept it and live in accordance with it, highlighting the balance between divine grace and human responsibility. He warns against the dangers of a diluted Gospel that neglects these critical elements, urging believers to seek a genuine relationship with Christ that transforms their lives.
What Is Your Choice?
By Erlo Stegen83734:05DEU 30:15DEU 30:19MAT 6:24MAT 7:13MAT 7:21MAT 7:24In this sermon, the preacher focuses on Deuteronomy 30 verse 19, where God presents a choice between life and death, blessing and cursing. The preacher emphasizes the importance of choosing life and following God's instructions. He uses the example of a man named Edwin Thomas who risked his life to save another person, highlighting the significance of selfless actions. The preacher also references Bible verses such as Matthew 7:13-14, where Jesus urges people to enter through the narrow gate that leads to life. Overall, the sermon encourages listeners to make wise choices and prioritize their relationship with God.
The Narrow Way Is the Only Way
By Shane Idleman72944:33DEU 30:19MAT 7:13JHN 14:6ROM 7:21ROM 12:2This sermon emphasizes the importance of entering through the narrow gate, highlighting the challenging path of following Christ amidst a culture that opposes moral absolutes. It addresses the struggle between the flesh and the spirit, the battle of surrendering to God, and the urgency of making a decision to choose life and follow Christ.
Keys for a Successful Family Life - Part 6
By Don Courville6091:02:12DEU 30:19PSA 37:5PSA 37:23PRO 3:11LUK 15:17ACT 27:22JAS 1:2This sermon delves into the story of Naomi and her family's journey from Moab back to Bethlehem, highlighting the consequences of their choices and the correction needed for blessings. It emphasizes the importance of trusting God's providence even when it seems contrary to His promises, and the significance of repentance and returning to the path of faith. The sermon encourages listeners to rise and go in the right direction, seeking God's guidance and blessings.
Put God to the Test
By Shane Idleman51147:17DEU 30:19PSA 14:1ISA 53:5JHN 3:16ROM 8:16ROM 10:92CO 5:17EPH 2:8HEB 11:31PE 1:3This sermon delves into the evidence for creation, the harmony between science and faith, and the transformative power of a relationship with God. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the depth of God's love and the significance of the sacrifice of Jesus. The speaker addresses common questions and challenges regarding faith, morality, and the concept of hell, providing insightful explanations rooted in Scripture and historical evidence.
Old Testament Survey - Part 23
By Dick Woodward50227:29DEU 10:12DEU 14:23DEU 15:11DEU 17:18DEU 18:10DEU 18:15DEU 20:1DEU 25:5DEU 30:19This sermon delves into the Book of Deuteronomy, focusing on Moses' sermons to the people of God before entering Canaan. It emphasizes responding to God's grace with obedience and love, highlighting the unconditional nature of God's love and the need for cleansing and repentance. The sermon explores the importance of faith, stewardship, charity, and obedience to God's Word, including teachings on tithing, capital punishment, and the Messianic prophet. It concludes with a powerful exhortation to choose life by obeying God's commands.
Obedience Opens the Door to God's Blessings
By Shane Idleman1811:16ObedienceRepentanceDEU 30:19Shane Idleman emphasizes the necessity of obedience in a rebellious culture, urging believers to return to a path of obedience to unlock God's blessings. He highlights the dangers of remaining in disobedience and the importance of repentance, reminding the congregation that God is not deterred by their past mistakes. Idleman encourages individuals to rise after falling, emphasizing that God desires to restore them to a position of power and authority. He illustrates that even those with troubled pasts, like Rahab, can be used by God, and stresses the importance of making tough decisions to align with God's will. Ultimately, he calls for a humble heart that seeks God's mercy and a commitment to live in obedience.
A Divided Allegiance
By Shane Idleman1649:40IdolatryDivided AllegianceDEU 30:19MAT 6:24LUK 9:23ROM 12:21CO 10:14GAL 5:17HEB 12:1JAS 1:81PE 2:111JN 2:15Shane Idleman emphasizes the critical nature of allegiance in the Christian life, illustrating that one cannot serve both God and the world. He warns against divided loyalties, using examples from scripture and personal anecdotes to highlight the dangers of idolatry and the necessity of full surrender to Christ. Idleman calls for a return to extreme Christianity, where believers actively flee from anything that draws them away from God, and he challenges the congregation to examine their priorities and commitments. He stresses that true joy and fulfillment come from a complete allegiance to Jesus, urging listeners to choose their side in the ongoing spiritual battle.
Ezekiel's River
By Raymond Golsworthy1DEU 30:19ISA 32:2EZK 47:9JHN 7:37JHN 11:25JHN 14:6ROM 6:41CO 6:192CO 5:17GAL 5:22HEB 13:13Raymond Golsworthy preaches on Ezekiel's vision of the River in chapter 47, symbolizing the Life of Christ flowing from the Altar, representing the cross of Christ, bringing eternal, death-conquering life to those who trust and accept Him. The River, depicted as Christ's life, flows towards the East, symbolizing the coming glory and everlasting splendor for believers. The depth of the river increases, signifying the ever-growing experience of Christ's life within believers, leading to a transformative and creative effect on their lives, producing spiritual fruit and newness. Golsworthy emphasizes the importance of not missing the River, warning of the tragic loss for those who fail to embrace Christ's life and the transformation it brings.
No Fear of Death
By C.H. Spurgeon1DEU 30:19ACT 20:211TI 5:212TI 2:142TI 4:1HEB 4:13William Arp emphasizes the seriousness of Paul's charge to Timothy, urging him to preach the Word with a sense of accountability to God and Christ Jesus, who will judge his ministry. The use of 'diamarturomai' signifies a forceful order or directive, highlighting the extraordinary importance of the message proclaimed. Paul's solemn charge to Timothy echoes the gravity of Moses' warnings in the Old Testament, calling for a reverential awe of God and a careful handling of His Word.
Man and the Origin of Evil.
By Winkie Pratney1GEN 2:7DEU 30:19ROM 6:17ROM 8:16EPH 4:18Winkie Pratney delves into the intricate components of the human personality, exploring the flesh, bones, blood, soul, spirit, and heart, emphasizing the importance of free will and the ability to make moral choices. He highlights the impact of emotions, reason, volition, conscience, intuition, and devotion on one's spiritual journey, stressing the significance of the supreme choice between serving God or self. Pratney discusses the consequences of wrong choices on the personality and the essence of sin as a self-originated selfish choice contrary to God's law.
The Unreasonableness of Indetermination in Religion
By Jonathan Edwards0DEU 30:191KI 18:21PSA 32:9EZK 20:39LUK 14:28ACT 17:27ACT 26:282TI 3:7JAS 1:8REV 3:15Jonathan Edwards preaches about the unreasonableness of being indecisive in religion, using the example of Elijah challenging the people to choose between the Lord and Baal. He emphasizes the importance of making a firm decision in matters of faith, highlighting the folly of wavering between two opinions and the need to fully commit to following God. Edwards explores the various reasons why individuals remain unresolved in religion, from doubts about the truth of Scripture to indecision about embracing a life of holiness. He urges listeners to examine their hearts and make a definitive choice to either pursue God wholeheartedly or face the consequences of remaining undecided.
Joshua 24:15
By Chuck Smith0Family LeadershipChoiceDEU 30:19JOS 24:15PRO 22:6MAT 6:24ROM 6:161CO 10:21GAL 5:13EPH 6:4JAS 1:81PE 2:9Chuck Smith emphasizes the significance of choice in the life of a believer, highlighting that God has given humanity the capacity to choose between serving Him or other influences. He explains that this choice is a profound responsibility, as it determines one's destiny and is influenced by both God and Satan. Smith urges listeners to recognize that everyone serves something, whether it be the true God or other 'gods' of pleasure and power. He concludes with a powerful declaration of commitment, encouraging families to serve the Lord together, emphasizing the father's role in guiding his household in faith.
Death Is the Fate of All Such
By Ignatius of Antioch0DEU 30:19JHN 8:44EPH 4:241JN 3:10Ignatius of Antioch emphasizes the importance of choosing between life through obedience to God's precepts or death through disobedience. He distinguishes between the truly devout, stamped by God, and the ungodly, influenced by the devil. Ignatius highlights that human nature remains the same, but individuals align themselves either with God or the devil based on their choices, with believers reflecting God's image and unbelievers reflecting the devil's image.
Romans 9:18 Finding God's Plan for Your Life
By Ernest O'Neill0GEN 2:16EXO 5:1DEU 30:192SA 11:2PSA 51:17JHN 3:16Ernest O'Neill preaches about the destructive power of the words 'I can't' and the false beliefs of determinism and fatalism that hinder us from realizing our true potential. He emphasizes the importance of understanding our free will and ability to choose our own paths, as revealed by God throughout history. O'Neill highlights the misconception of God's arbitrary nature in Romans 9:18 and explains that God shows mercy to all but hardens the hearts of those who reject Him.
- John Gill
- Tyndale
John Gill Bible Commentary
I call heaven and earth to record this day against you,.... Either, literally understood, the heavens above him, and the earth on which he stood, those inanimate bodies, which are frequently called upon as witnesses to matters of moment and importance; see Deu 4:26; or figuratively, the inhabitants of both, angels and men: that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; had plainly told them in express words what would be the consequence of obedience and disobedience to the law of God; long life, and the blessings of it in the land of Canaan, to those that obey it; death, by various means, and dreadful curses, to those that disobey it; of which see at large Deu 28:16, therefore choose life, that thou and thy seed may live; that is, prefer obedience to the law, and choose to perform that, the consequence of which is life; that they and their posterity might live comfortably and happily, quietly and safely, and constantly, even to the latest ages, in the land of Canaan.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
30:19 life and death . . . blessings and curses: This grammatical structure suggests an equivalence between life and blessing and between death and curses. The essence of a blessing is life, and the essence of a curse is death.