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Deuteronomy: A Study Outline

From Old Testament Digest, Volume 1 by William MacDonald

Outline based on Old Testament Digest, Volume 1: Genesis–Deuteronomy by William MacDonald. Copyright © 1981 by William MacDonald. Used by permission of the author (as published on plymouthbrethren.org). williammacdonald.org

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Overview of Deuteronomy

Deuteronomy, the "second law," is Moses' restatement of the Law to the new generation on the Plains of Moab before they enter Canaan. MacDonald traces a spiritual review of history (chs. 1–3), a review of God's laws (chs. 4–26), a preview of God's grace and government until Messiah's return (chs. 27–33), and Moses' death (ch. 34). To enjoy the land, Israel must hear, learn, keep and do God's Word.

Key themes

Christ in Deuteronomy. MacDonald sees Christ as the Prophet like Moses (18:15–19), the One hanged on a tree who bore our curse (21:22–23), and the spotless Lamb pictured in unblemished offerings (17:1). Moses was faithful as a servant, but Christ is faithful as a Son over God's house (34; Hebrews 3).

Read Deuteronomy in the NET Bible: Deuteronomy 1 · MacDonald’s full commentary: Deuteronomy in the Digest

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MacDonald’s Outline of Deuteronomy

  1. First Discourse of Moses: Approaching the Land (Deuteronomy 1:1–4:49)
    1. Introduction (Deuteronomy 1:1–5)
    2. Horeb to Kadesh (Deuteronomy 1:6–46)
    3. Kadesh to Heshbon (Deuteronomy 2:1–37)
    4. Transjordan secured (Deuteronomy 3:1–29)
    5. Exhortation to obedience (Deuteronomy 4:1–49)
  2. Second Discourse of Moses: Purity in the Land (Deuteronomy 5:1–28:68)
    1. Review of covenant made at Sinai (Deuteronomy 5:1–33)
    2. Warnings against disobedience (Deuteronomy 6:1–25)
    3. Instructions on dealing with idolatrous nations (Deuteronomy 7:1–26)
    4. Lessons from the past (Deuteronomy 8:1–11:7)
    5. Rewards for obedience (Deuteronomy 11:8–32)
    6. Statutes for worship (Deuteronomy 12:1–32)
    7. Punishment for false prophets and idolaters (Deuteronomy 13:1–18)
    8. Foods clean and unclean (Deuteronomy 14:1–21)
    9. Tithes (Deuteronomy 14:22–29)
    10. Treatment of debtors and slaves (Deuteronomy 15:1–23)
    11. Feasts (Deuteronomy 16:1–22)
    12. Judges (Deuteronomy 17:1–13)
    13. Kings (Deuteronomy 17:14–20)
    14. Levites (Deuteronomy 18:1–8)
    15. Prophets (Deuteronomy 18:9–22)
    16. Criminal laws (Deuteronomy 19:1–21)
    17. Warfare (Deuteronomy 20:1–20)
    18. Various laws (Deuteronomy 21:1–26:19)
    19. Curses and blessings (Deuteronomy 27:1–28:68)
  3. Third Discourse of Moses: Covenant for the Land (Deuteronomy 29:1–30:20)
    1. Covenant made in Moab (Deuteronomy 29:1–21)
    2. Punishment for breaking the covenant (Deuteronomy 29:22–29)
    3. Restoration for returning to the covenant (Deuteronomy 30:1–20)
  4. The Final Days of Moses: Death outside the Land (Deuteronomy 31:1–34:12)
    1. Moses' replacement (Deuteronomy 31:1–30)
    2. Moses' song (Deuteronomy 32:1–52)
    3. Moses' blessing (Deuteronomy 33:1–29)
    4. Moses' death (Deuteronomy 34:1–12)

1 · From Horeb to Kadesh: Lessons of Unbelief

Deuteronomy 1

On the Plains of Moab Moses begins reviewing Israel's history, recalling how an eleven-day journey became nearly forty years through unbelief.

  1. Deuteronomy is a key book, quoted over 80 times in the New Testament Deuteronomy 1:1
    1. Its call: hear, learn, keep and do (Deuteronomy 5:1) Deuteronomy 5:1
    2. Much is review, yet it gives fresh insights
  2. Setting: Israel camped on the Plains of Moab, forty years after Egypt Deuteronomy 1:1–5
    1. Horeb to Kadesh-barnea took only eleven days Deuteronomy 1:2
    2. Moses speaks after Sihon and Og were defeated (Numbers 21) Deuteronomy 1:4
  3. God commanded Israel to march in and possess the land Deuteronomy 1:6–8
  4. Judges were appointed to handle civil matters Deuteronomy 1:9–18
  5. The journey to Kadesh, the spies and the rebellion Deuteronomy 1:19–46
    1. Only Joshua and Caleb of the soldiers from Egypt would enter Deuteronomy 1:35–38
    2. Levi, not serving as soldiers, was exempt from this judgment

Cross references

Deuteronomy 5:1 Numbers 22:1 Numbers 21

Also discussed in the library

Read MacDonald on Chapter 1 →   Top

2 · Passing Edom, Moab and Ammon; Sihon Defeated

Deuteronomy 2

Israel travels from Kadesh, avoiding war with Esau, Moab and Ammon, and then defeats Sihon king of Heshbon.

  1. Past Edom without conflict with the sons of Esau Deuteronomy 2:1–7
  2. From Edom to the brook Zered, avoiding Moab Deuteronomy 2:8–15
  3. God commanded Israel not to fight the Ammonites Deuteronomy 2:16–23
  4. Sihon king of Heshbon defeated Deuteronomy 2:24–37
    1. Some Edomites sold Israel food and water, though their king refused help (Numbers 20:14–22) Deuteronomy 2:29

Cross references

Numbers 20:14–22

Also discussed in the library

Read MacDonald on Chapter 2 →   Top

3 · Og Defeated and the Land East of Jordan

Deuteronomy 3

Og of Bashan falls, the east bank is given to two and a half tribes, and Moses' plea to enter the land is refused.

  1. Og king of Bashan defeated Deuteronomy 3:1–11
    1. Og came from the Rephaim, an ancient race of giants Deuteronomy 3:11
  2. Land east of the Jordan given to Reuben, Gad and half of Manasseh Deuteronomy 3:12–17
  3. The two and a half tribes must help conquer the west Deuteronomy 3:18–20
  4. Joshua urged to trust God for future victories Deuteronomy 3:21–22
  5. God refuses Moses' request to enter the land Deuteronomy 3:23–29

Also discussed in the library

Read MacDonald on Chapter 3 →   Top

4 · Worship the One True God, Not Idols

Deuteronomy 4

Moses introduces his review of the Law with strong warnings against idolatry and a promise of restoration for those who repent.

  1. Keep the Law exactly, adding nothing and taking nothing away Deuteronomy 4:1–2
  2. Remember Beth-peor as a warning against idolatry Deuteronomy 4:3–4
    1. The judgment there was recent and fresh in their minds
  3. Obedience would make Israel admired among the nations Deuteronomy 4:5–8
  4. At Horeb they saw no form, so no image may represent God Deuteronomy 4:9–24
    1. No images of any kind, and no worship of sun, moon or stars Deuteronomy 4:15–19
    2. Repeated call to watch themselves lest they forget Deuteronomy 4:9; 4:15–16; 4:23
    3. Reminded of Egypt, Moses' judgment and God's wrath on idols Deuteronomy 4:20–24
  5. Idolatry would bring captivity, but repentance would bring restoration Deuteronomy 4:25–31
    1. Sadly fulfilled in Israel's purging captivity
  6. No nation had Israel's privileges, so obey and be blessed Deuteronomy 4:32–40
  7. Three cities of refuge set apart east of Jordan Deuteronomy 4:41–43
    1. Bezer, Ramoth-Gilead and Golan Deuteronomy 4:43
  8. The second discourse begins on the Plains of Moab Deuteronomy 4:44–49
    1. Mount Hermon is called Mount Sion only here Deuteronomy 4:48

Lessons

  • The human heart naturally forgets; we must watch ourselves carefully.
  • God's warnings are not idle words; no person or nation can ignore them safely.

Related reading

Also discussed in the library

Read MacDonald on Chapter 4 →   Top

5 · The Covenant at Sinai Reviewed

Deuteronomy 5

Moses reminds the new generation that the Sinai covenant was given for them as well as their fathers.

  1. The Ten Commandments given at Sinai are reviewed Deuteronomy 5:1–6
  2. The covenant was not with the fathers only but with later generations too Deuteronomy 5:3

Also discussed in the library

Read MacDonald on Chapter 5 →   Top

The Ten Words and Moses the Mediator

Deuteronomy 5:7–33

MacDonald lists the ten commandments, notes how this version differs from Exodus, and explains why the people asked for Moses as mediator.

  1. Duties toward God: commandments one to four Deuteronomy 5:7–15
    1. No other gods Deuteronomy 5:7
    2. No images; this is distinct from the first commandment Deuteronomy 5:8–10
    3. Do not take the Lord's name in vain Deuteronomy 5:11
    4. Keep the sabbath; deliverance from Egypt complements creation rest (Exodus 20:8–11) Deuteronomy 5:12–15
  2. Duties toward others: commandments five to ten Deuteronomy 5:16–21
    1. Honor parents Deuteronomy 5:16
    2. No murder, adultery, stealing or false witness Deuteronomy 5:17–20
    3. No coveting Deuteronomy 5:21
  3. "He added no more": these ten summed up the whole covenant Deuteronomy 5:22
    1. All other law expands these basic principles
  4. Terrified at God's presence, the people asked Moses to mediate Deuteronomy 5:23–31
    1. Their rash vow showed they did not know their own weakness Deuteronomy 5:27
    2. The rest of the laws came through Moses Deuteronomy 5:31
  5. God approved their fear, not their promise, wishing they had a heart to obey Deuteronomy 5:28–33
    1. Compare Deuteronomy 18:16–18 Deuteronomy 18:16–18

Cross references

Exodus 20:8–11 Deuteronomy 18:16–18

Lessons

  • Promising to keep God's law in our own strength shows we do not yet know our hearts.

Also discussed in the library

Read MacDonald on The Ten Commandments →   Top

6 · Hear, O Israel: Love the Lord Your God

Deuteronomy 6

Moses calls Israel to love the one true God with all their heart, teach His Word to their children, and not forget Him in prosperity.

  1. God wanted an obedient people fit to enjoy the land Deuteronomy 6:1–3
  2. The Shema: the Lord is one; love Him supremely Deuteronomy 6:4–9
    1. Recited daily with Deuteronomy 11:13–21 and Numbers 15:37–41 Deuteronomy 6:4–9
    2. "One" means a compound unity, hinting at the Trinity Deuteronomy 6:4
    3. Compare the plural "Us" of Genesis 1:26
  3. God's Word should rule hands and eyes, actions and desires Deuteronomy 6:8
    1. The Jews later bound Scripture literally to hands and foreheads
  4. Danger of forgetting the Giver amid prosperity Deuteronomy 6:10–15
    1. Biblical love is steady obedience, not mere sentiment
    2. God's jealousy is His zeal for His own glory Deuteronomy 6:15
  5. Do not tempt the Lord as at Massah Deuteronomy 6:16
    1. Quoted by Jesus in Matthew 4:7 and Luke 4:12
    2. To doubt God's care is to tempt Him (Exodus 17)
  6. Teach future generations the story of redemption Deuteronomy 6:17–25
    1. Law says "if we observe"; grace says "to all who believe" (Romans 3:21–22) Deuteronomy 6:25
    2. Believers now wear God's righteousness by faith (2 Corinthians 5:21; Romans 4:5)

Cross references

Matthew 4:7 Luke 4:12 Exodus 17 Genesis 1:26 Romans 3:21–22 2 Corinthians 5:21 Romans 4:5 Numbers 15:37–41

Lessons

  • Love for God is shown in obedience, not just feelings.
  • Doubting God's goodness in hard times is tempting Him.

Also discussed in the library

Read MacDonald on Chapter 6 →   Top

7 · A Separate People, Chosen in Love

Deuteronomy 7

Israel must stay apart from Canaan's idolatrous nations, remembering that God chose them only because He loved them.

  1. Destroy the seven nations and every trace of idolatry Deuteronomy 7:1–5
    1. Judgment for their gross sin and protection for Israel
    2. The ban on intermarriage may foresee Israel's failure to obey Deuteronomy 7:3
  2. God chose Israel out of pure love, not for their size or goodness Deuteronomy 7:6–11
    1. He kept the oath sworn to their fathers Deuteronomy 7:8
  3. Faithfulness would bring children, crops, health and victory Deuteronomy 7:12–16
  4. Remember past deliverances when tempted to fear Deuteronomy 7:17–24
    1. Enemies driven out gradually so wild beasts would not take over Deuteronomy 7:22
    2. Remaining nations would also test Israel (Judges 2:21–23)
  5. Burn all idols lest they become a snare Deuteronomy 7:25–26
    1. The real danger was idols and their immorality, not armies

Cross references

Judges 2:21–23

Lessons

  • Our hardest battles are spiritual, not physical.
  • Electing grace is beyond our understanding; it rests on God's love alone.

Also discussed in the library

Read MacDonald on Chapter 7 →   Top

8 · Remember the Wilderness; Beware of Pride

Deuteronomy 8

God's care and discipline in the wilderness should keep Israel humble and grateful when prosperity comes in Canaan.

  1. Two lessons from the past: humility (ch. 8) and no self-righteousness (ch. 9) Deuteronomy 8:1–9:29
    1. MacDonald quotes J. A. Thompson's summary
  2. God's loving care in the wilderness is a motive for obedience Deuteronomy 8:1–5
    1. Trials humbled and tested them Deuteronomy 8:2
    2. Manna, clothes that did not wear out, feet that did not swell Deuteronomy 8:3–4
    3. God was not learning; He showed them their own hearts Deuteronomy 8:2
  3. A good land is described in detail Deuteronomy 8:6–9
  4. Prosperity can lead to forgetfulness, then disobedience Deuteronomy 8:10–20
    1. God kept His word; Israel must keep theirs (Exodus 19:8) Deuteronomy 8:18
    2. Claiming credit for wealth would bring destruction Deuteronomy 8:17–20

Cross references

Exodus 19:8

Lessons

  • God's discipline shows us our hearts so we value His mercy more.
  • Watch against pride when blessings come.

Also discussed in the library

Read MacDonald on Chapter 8 →   Top

9 · Not Because of Your Righteousness

Deuteronomy 9

Israel will win the land by God's power and promise, not their own goodness, as their rebellions from Sinai onward prove.

  1. Strong nations ahead, but God would go before Israel Deuteronomy 9:1–3
    1. God destroys and Israel drives out: sovereignty and human agency together Deuteronomy 9:3
  2. Three warnings not to credit victory to their righteousness Deuteronomy 9:4–6
    1. Given because of the nations' wickedness and God's oath Deuteronomy 9:4–5
    2. Israel was stiff-necked and rebellious Deuteronomy 9:6–7
  3. Rebellion at Horeb and elsewhere recalled Deuteronomy 9:8–24
    1. Taberah (Numbers 11:3), Massah (Exodus 17:7) Deuteronomy 9:22
    2. Kibroth-hattaavah (Numbers 11:34), Kadesh-barnea (Numbers 13:31–33) Deuteronomy 9:22–23
  4. Moses' intercession alone saved the people Deuteronomy 9:25–29
    1. Pleaded God's possession: "Thy people" Deuteronomy 9:26
    2. Pleaded God's promise to the patriarchs Deuteronomy 9:27
    3. Pleaded God's power and reputation before Egypt Deuteronomy 9:28

Cross references

Numbers 11:3 Exodus 17:7 Numbers 11:34 Numbers 13:31–33

Lessons

  • Success is never proof of our own righteousness.
  • Good intercession rests on God's character and promises, not our merit.

Also discussed in the library

Read MacDonald on Chapter 9 →   Top

10 · New Tablets and What God Requires

Deuteronomy 10

Moses recalls the second giving of the Law and the choice of Levi, then sums up God's requirements and reasons to obey.

  1. The Bible often follows moral order more than time order Deuteronomy 10:1
    1. A better chapter break might come after verse 11 Deuteronomy 10:11
  2. The Law given again; tablets placed in the ark Deuteronomy 10:1–5
    1. Moses "made" the ark by ordering it made Deuteronomy 10:3
  3. Parenthesis: Aaron's death at Mosera (Numbers 20:25–28) Deuteronomy 10:6–7
  4. Levi chosen for a threefold priestly work Deuteronomy 10:8–9
    1. Carry the ark, stand before the Lord, bless His name Deuteronomy 10:8
  5. What God requires: fear, walk, love, serve, keep Deuteronomy 10:12–13
    1. All His commands are for our good Deuteronomy 10:13
  6. Reasons to obey Deuteronomy 10:14–22
    1. His greatness and sovereign choice of Israel Deuteronomy 10:14–15
    2. His justice and His past favors Deuteronomy 10:17–22

Cross references

Numbers 20:25–28

Lessons

  • God's commandments are always given for our good.

Also discussed in the library

Read MacDonald on Chapter 10 →   Top

11 · Love, Obey and Possess the Land

Deuteronomy 11

Moses draws lessons from history, describes the land watered by God, urges the Word in the home, and sets blessing and curse before Israel.

  1. History teaches the folly of rebellion Deuteronomy 11:1–9
    1. Spoken to those under 20 at the Exodus, women and Levites (Joshua 5:6) Deuteronomy 11:2
    2. Judgment on Egypt and on Dathan and Abiram Deuteronomy 11:3–6
  2. A land watered from heaven, unlike irrigated Egypt Deuteronomy 11:10–17
    1. Rain and harvest for obedience; drought for idolatry Deuteronomy 11:13–17
  3. God's Word is to fill the home and family talk Deuteronomy 11:18–21
    1. Hands: honest work; eyes: guarded desires; doorposts: a godly home Deuteronomy 11:18–20
  4. Possess every place your foot treads Deuteronomy 11:22–25
    1. The land was theirs by promise but must be claimed Deuteronomy 11:24
    2. Borders never fully held, even under Solomon (1 Kings 4:21)
    3. Fulfillment awaits Christ's millennial reign
  5. Blessing on Gerizim, curse on Ebal Deuteronomy 11:26–32
    1. See Deuteronomy 27:11–26 for the ceremony
    2. Moreh recalls Jacob purging idols (Genesis 35:1–4) Deuteronomy 11:30

Cross references

Joshua 5:6 1 Kings 4:21 Deuteronomy 27:11–26 Genesis 35:1–4

Lessons

  • Make God's Word the natural subject of conversation at home.
  • God's promises must be appropriated by faith, as Israel had to walk the land.

Related reading

Also discussed in the library

Read MacDonald on Chapter 11 →   Top

12 · The Place God Chooses for Worship

Deuteronomy 12

Israel must destroy idol shrines and bring worship to the one place God chooses, while being allowed to eat meat at home.

  1. Destroy every idol and pagan worship site Deuteronomy 12:1–3
    1. "Grove" means Asherim, symbols of a female deity Deuteronomy 12:3
    2. Pillars stood for Baal
  2. Worship only at the place God would appoint Deuteronomy 12:4–14
    1. First Shiloh (Joshua 18:1), later Jerusalem
    2. For the Christian, the center of worship is a Person, Christ
    3. Wilderness irregularities would not be allowed in the land Deuteronomy 12:8–9
  3. Meat may now be eaten at home, but never the blood Deuteronomy 12:15–28
    1. Change from Leviticus 17:3–4 for settled life
    2. The life is in the blood and belongs to God Deuteronomy 12:23
  4. Do not even inquire into heathen worship Deuteronomy 12:29–32
    1. Molech and Chemosh involved child sacrifice Deuteronomy 12:31
    2. Demons are behind idolatry (1 Corinthians 10:20)
    3. Solomon later built altars to them near Jerusalem

Cross references

Joshua 18:1 Leviticus 17:3–4 1 Corinthians 10:20

Lessons

  • Curiosity about false religion can become the door to it.
  • The believer gathers around the Lord Jesus Christ Himself.

Also discussed in the library

Read MacDonald on Chapter 12 →   Top

13 · Dealing with Those Who Entice to Idolatry

Deuteronomy 13

Anyone leading Israel to idols, whether prophet, relative or whole city, was to be put to death.

  1. A prophet urging idolatry must die, even if his sign comes true Deuteronomy 13:1–5
  2. Even a close relative enticing to idols must be stoned Deuteronomy 13:6–11
  3. An idolatrous city was to be destroyed and burned Deuteronomy 13:12–18
    1. "Children of Belial": worthless, base men Deuteronomy 13:13
    2. God is not partial; He deals with sin among His own
    3. His motive with Israel is fatherly discipline

Lessons

  • God judges sin among His own people too, but as a Father correcting them.

Also discussed in the library

Read MacDonald on Chapter 13 →   Top

14 · Holy Habits: Mourning, Food and Tithes

Deuteronomy 14

God's people must avoid pagan mourning, eat only clean foods, and bring tithes that also feed the needy.

  1. No cutting the body in mourning Deuteronomy 14:1–2
    1. Israel honored the body as God's creation
  2. Clean and unclean foods reviewed Deuteronomy 14:3–21
    1. Animals, fish, birds and insects (Leviticus 11) Deuteronomy 14:4–20
    2. Some rules were hygienic, some guarded against idolatry
    3. New Testament principle: Mark 7; Romans 14:14; 1 Timothy 4:3–5
    4. No eating animals that died naturally (Deuteronomy 12:23) Deuteronomy 14:21
  3. Do not boil a kid in its mother's milk Deuteronomy 14:21
    1. Likely a Canaanite practice; spiritually, a call to tenderness
  4. The festival tithe eaten before the Lord Deuteronomy 14:22–27
    1. Possibly a second tithe, distinct from Leviticus 27:30–33
    2. Distant families could sell produce and buy food at the sanctuary Deuteronomy 14:24–26
    3. Scripture teaches moderation, not total abstinence Deuteronomy 14:26
  5. The third-year tithe fed Levites, strangers, orphans and widows Deuteronomy 14:28–29
    1. The poor are a high priority to God (Proverbs 19:17)

Cross references

Leviticus 11 Mark 7 Romans 14:14 1 Timothy 4:3–5 Leviticus 27:30–33 Proverbs 19:17

Lessons

  • Kindness to the poor is a loan to the Lord.

Also discussed in the library

Read MacDonald on Chapter 14 →   Top

15 · The Year of Release

Deuteronomy 15

Every seventh year debts were cancelled and Hebrew slaves freed, picturing God's generous release through His Son.

  1. Debts between Israelites cancelled every seventh year Deuteronomy 15:1–6
    1. Not required for foreigners Deuteronomy 15:3
    2. Pictures the gospel's "year of release" for all people
  2. "No poor among you" and "the poor always with you" agree Deuteronomy 15:4–11
    1. Release kept anyone from lasting poverty (Bullinger) Deuteronomy 15:4
    2. The poor remain to teach compassion Deuteronomy 15:11
  3. Do not refuse a loan because release is near Deuteronomy 15:7–11
    1. God loves a cheerful giver (2 Corinthians 9:7) Deuteronomy 15:10
    2. God is no man's debtor (Proverbs 11:25)
  4. Freed slaves must be sent off with generous gifts Deuteronomy 15:12–18
    1. As God enriched Israel leaving Egypt (Exodus 12:35–36)
    2. A slave who loved his master could serve for life, ear pierced Deuteronomy 15:16–17
  5. Firstborn of clean animals given to the Lord, without blemish Deuteronomy 15:19–23
    1. Begins a section on worship at God's chosen place Deuteronomy 15:19–16:17

Cross references

2 Corinthians 9:7 Proverbs 11:25 Exodus 12:35–36

Lessons

  • Do unto your brother as the Lord has done unto you.
  • Give God nothing but the best.

Also discussed in the library

Read MacDonald on Chapter 15 →   Top

16 · Three Annual Feasts and Honest Judges

Deuteronomy 16

MacDonald reviews Passover, Weeks and Tabernacles as pictures of redemption, the Spirit and the coming kingdom, then calls for just judges.

  1. Passover and Unleavened Bread recall redemption Deuteronomy 16:1–8
    1. The Lord's Supper remembers Christ our Passover
    2. Unleavened Bread pictures lives free of malice (1 Corinthians 5:8)
    3. Details differ from Exodus 12 for settled life in the land
  2. Feast of Weeks pictures the gift of the Holy Spirit Deuteronomy 16:9–12
    1. Not the same as Firstfruits of barley
  3. Feast of Tabernacles looks to Israel regathered under Christ Deuteronomy 16:13–17
  4. Judges must be honest and refuse bribes Deuteronomy 16:18–20
  5. No Asherah beside God's altar Deuteronomy 16:21–22
    1. Such an idol was later set up in the temple

Cross references

1 Corinthians 5:8 Exodus 12

Lessons

  • Redeemed people should live lives of praise, free from malice.

Also discussed in the library

Read MacDonald on Chapter 16 →   Top

17 · Pure Sacrifices, Final Courts and the King

Deuteronomy 17

This chapter covers spotless offerings, trying idolaters, Israel's supreme court, and the rules for a future king.

  1. Offerings without blemish picture the spotless Lamb of God Deuteronomy 17:1
  2. Idolaters tried on two or three witnesses, then stoned Deuteronomy 17:2–7
  3. Hard cases taken to priests and judges at the sanctuary Deuteronomy 17:8–13
    1. High priest and chief judge led this supreme court Deuteronomy 17:12
    2. Refusing its decision was a capital crime Deuteronomy 17:12–13
  4. Rules for a king, given about 400 years ahead Deuteronomy 17:14–20
    1. God's choice, and an Israelite Deuteronomy 17:15
    2. No trust in horses, no return to Egypt Deuteronomy 17:16
    3. Not many wives, nor much gold and silver Deuteronomy 17:17
    4. Must write, read and obey the Law, and not be proud Deuteronomy 17:18–20
  5. Solomon broke nearly all of these rules (1 Kings 10:11–11:10) Deuteronomy 17:16–17

Cross references

1 Kings 10:11–11:10

Lessons

  • Leaders must depend on the Lord, not on wealth, power or alliances.

Also discussed in the library

Read MacDonald on Chapter 17 →   Top

18 · Levites, the Occult and the Coming Prophet

Deuteronomy 18

God provides for the Levites, forbids all contact with the spirit world, and promises a Prophet like Moses, fulfilled in Christ.

  1. Priests and Levites supported from the offerings Deuteronomy 18:1–8
    1. Their portions: shoulder, cheeks, maw and firstfruits Deuteronomy 18:3–4
    2. A Levite who moved to the sanctuary shared equally Deuteronomy 18:6–8
  2. No contact with spiritists in any form Deuteronomy 18:9–14
    1. Eight forbidden ways of contacting the spirit world Deuteronomy 18:10–11
    2. To be blameless is to listen to God's voice alone Deuteronomy 18:13
  3. A Prophet like Moses: a prophecy of Christ (Acts 3:22–23) Deuteronomy 18:15–19
    1. Truly human, an Israelite, raised up by God Deuteronomy 18:15
    2. Full inspiration and full revelation Deuteronomy 18:18
    3. All must hear and obey Him Deuteronomy 18:19
  4. This Prophet would also be the Mediator Israel asked for at Sinai Deuteronomy 18:16–18
    1. The Gospels show Messianic hope (John 6:14; John 7:40)
  5. Test of a false prophet: his prediction fails Deuteronomy 18:20–22
    1. Also false if he leads to other gods (Deuteronomy 13:1–5)

Cross references

Acts 3:22–23 John 6:14 John 7:40 Deuteronomy 13:1–5

Lessons

  • Listen to God's voice alone, never to the spirit world.

Related reading

Also discussed in the library

Read MacDonald on Chapter 18 →   Top

19 · Cities of Refuge, Landmarks and Witnesses

Deuteronomy 19

Moses provides refuge for the accidental killer, forbids moving landmarks, and guards justice against false witnesses.

  1. Three cities of refuge west of Jordan Deuteronomy 19:1–7
    1. Kedesh, Hebron and Shechem (Joshua 20:7)
  2. Three more promised if all the land were possessed Deuteronomy 19:8–10
    1. Never needed, as Israel never held the land of Genesis 15:18
  3. No refuge for a murderer Deuteronomy 19:11–13
  4. Do not move a neighbor's landmark Deuteronomy 19:14
  5. Two or three witnesses required Deuteronomy 19:15–21
    1. A false witness suffers the penalty he sought Deuteronomy 19:16–19
    2. "Eye for eye" limits cruelty rather than licensing it Deuteronomy 19:21

Cross references

Genesis 15:18 Joshua 20:7 Deuteronomy 17:8–9

Related reading

Also discussed in the library

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20 · God's Manual on Warfare

Deuteronomy 20

Israel's warfare was to be controlled, holy and humane under the Lord's direction.

  1. Priests encourage the army before battle Deuteronomy 20:1–4
  2. Who was excused from service Deuteronomy 20:5–9
    1. New house, new vineyard, or new betrothal Deuteronomy 20:5–7
    2. The fearful and fainthearted Deuteronomy 20:8
    3. Only for voluntary wars, not God-commanded ones
  3. Distant cities offered peace; Canaanite cities destroyed Deuteronomy 20:10–18
    1. Canaan's cities posed the greater danger of corruption
  4. Spare fruit trees: no scorched-earth warfare Deuteronomy 20:19–20

Lessons

  • Even in war, God's people must reflect His holiness and restraint.

Also discussed in the library

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21 · Unsolved Murder, Family Rights and the Curse of the Tree

Deuteronomy 21

Laws on bloodguilt, captive wives, the firstborn and rebellious sons close with a clear picture of Christ hanged on the tree.

  1. Atonement for an unsolved murder Deuteronomy 21:1–9
    1. Elders of the nearest city slay a heifer and wash their hands Deuteronomy 21:3–7
    2. Corporate guilt must be cleansed from the land
    3. "God's Great Inquest Over His Son": Israel's guilt for Christ's death
  2. Marrying a captive woman, not a Canaanite Deuteronomy 21:10–14
  3. The firstborn's birthright protected Deuteronomy 21:15–17
    1. Not approval of bigamy
    2. God sometimes chose the younger, but that was the exception
  4. A rebellious son stoned; contrast the prodigal (Luke 15) Deuteronomy 21:18–21
  5. One hanged on a tree is cursed: a picture of Christ Deuteronomy 21:22–23
    1. Innocent, He bore our curse
    2. His body was not left overnight (John 19:31)

Cross references

Luke 15 John 19:31

Lessons

  • Worship the Lamb who bore the curse on the tree.

Also discussed in the library

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22 · Loving Your Neighbor in Daily Life

Deuteronomy 22

This chapter applies "love your neighbor" to lost property, safety, mixtures and sexual purity.

  1. An expansion of Leviticus 19:18 Deuteronomy 22:1–4
    1. Return lost animals and goods (Exodus 23:4–5) Deuteronomy 22:1–3
    2. Help a fallen animal Deuteronomy 22:4
  2. No cross-dressing; God hates confusing the sexes Deuteronomy 22:5
  3. Spare the mother bird; build a roof railing Deuteronomy 22:6–8
  4. Forbidden mixtures and their spiritual lessons Deuteronomy 22:9–11
    1. Mixed seed: adding to God's pure Word Deuteronomy 22:9
    2. Ox and ass: the unequal yoke in service Deuteronomy 22:10
    3. Wool and linen: mixing right and wrong in practice Deuteronomy 22:11
  5. Tassels on garments (Numbers 15:37–41) Deuteronomy 22:12
  6. Laws on virginity, adultery, rape and incest Deuteronomy 22:13–30
    1. A falsely accused bride vindicated Deuteronomy 22:13–21
    2. Distinctions in guilt for city and field Deuteronomy 22:23–27

Cross references

Leviticus 19:18 Exodus 23:4–5 Numbers 15:37–41

Lessons

  • Keep God's Word pure, avoid unequal yokes, and live consistently.

Also discussed in the library

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23 · Purity in the Congregation and Camp

Deuteronomy 23

Rules about who may enter the congregation, camp cleanliness, refuge for slaves, interest, vows and gleaning.

  1. Some barred from the congregation Deuteronomy 23:1–8
    1. Eunuch, illegitimate, Ammonite and Moabite: ten generations Deuteronomy 23:1–6
    2. Edomite and Egyptian after three generations Deuteronomy 23:7–8
    3. Exceptions for those who sought God (1 Chronicles 11:39, 46)
    4. Moab gave no hospitable welcome, though some sold food (Deuteronomy 2:29) Deuteronomy 23:4
  2. Purity and hygiene in the army camp Deuteronomy 23:9–14
    1. Covering waste would have spared armies many plagues Deuteronomy 23:12–14
  3. Escaped slaves given asylum Deuteronomy 23:15–16
  4. No temple prostitution or its wages Deuteronomy 23:17–18
  5. No interest from fellow Israelites (Exodus 22:25) Deuteronomy 23:19–20
  6. Vows are voluntary but binding Deuteronomy 23:21–23
  7. Travelers may eat from a field but not carry off Deuteronomy 23:24–25
    1. The disciples did this (Mark 2:23)

Cross references

Deuteronomy 2:29 1 Chronicles 11:39 Exodus 22:25 Mark 2:23

Also discussed in the library

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24 · Divorce, Pledges and Care for the Poor

Deuteronomy 24

Laws on divorce, new marriages, pledges, wages and gleaning reflect God's compassion for the weak.

  1. A divorced wife may not return to her first husband Deuteronomy 24:1–4
    1. God divorced Israel (Jeremiah 3:1–8) yet will take her back
  2. A new husband free from war for a year Deuteronomy 24:5
  3. Protect a man's livelihood and home Deuteronomy 24:6–13
    1. No millstone as a pledge Deuteronomy 24:6
    2. Kidnappers put to death Deuteronomy 24:7
    3. Return a pledged cloak each night Deuteronomy 24:12–13
  4. Pay wages promptly; each dies for his own sin Deuteronomy 24:14–16
  5. Justice and gleanings for strangers, orphans and widows Deuteronomy 24:17–22
    1. Remember your own bondage in Egypt Deuteronomy 24:22
    2. John Newton hung verse 22 over his mantel Deuteronomy 24:22

Cross references

Jeremiah 3:1–8

Lessons

  • Remembering how God rescued us should make us generous to the poor.
  • How low God stoops to love the unlovable!

Also discussed in the library

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25 · Fair Punishment, the Ox and Levirate Marriage

Deuteronomy 25

Limits on punishment, care for workers, a brother's duty to his widow, honest weights, and the doom of Amalek.

  1. No more than forty stripes Deuteronomy 25:1–3
    1. Jews gave 39 to be safe (2 Corinthians 11:24)
  2. Do not muzzle the threshing ox Deuteronomy 25:4
    1. Paul applies it to supporting Christian workers (1 Corinthians 9:9–11)
    2. The Law often holds spiritual lessons beneath the literal
  3. A brother should marry his childless brother's widow Deuteronomy 25:5–10
    1. Refusal brought public shame Deuteronomy 25:9–10
    2. Not in conflict with Leviticus 20:21, which applied while the husband lived
  4. Penalty for an immodest act endangering an heir Deuteronomy 25:11–12
  5. Honest weights and measures required Deuteronomy 25:13–16
  6. Blot out Amalek (Exodus 17:8–16) Deuteronomy 25:17–19
    1. Saul failed (1 Samuel 15); finished in Hezekiah's day (1 Chronicles 4:43)

Cross references

2 Corinthians 11:24 1 Corinthians 9:9–11 Leviticus 20:21 Exodus 17:8–16 1 Samuel 15 1 Chronicles 4:43

Lessons

  • Those who labor in spiritual things should be cared for in material things.
  • Look for the spiritual lesson under the surface of the Law.

Also discussed in the library

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26 · Firstfruits, Tithes and a Treasured People

Deuteronomy 26

Settled in the land, Israel was to bring firstfruits with thanksgiving, share the tithe, and live as God's special treasure.

  1. Firstfruits brought with joy to the sanctuary Deuteronomy 26:1–11
    1. Recite God's dealings from "a wandering Aramean" to the good land Deuteronomy 26:5–9
    2. "Milk and honey" describes rich, green pastures and abundant life Deuteronomy 26:9
  2. The third-year tithe shared with the needy at home Deuteronomy 26:12–15
    1. A declaration of obedience before the Lord Deuteronomy 26:13–15
  3. Israel acknowledged as God's peculiar treasure Deuteronomy 26:16–19
    1. Holy because God set them apart, not by merit Deuteronomy 26:19
    2. Such honor calls for obedience

Lessons

  • Rehearse God's goodness with thanksgiving.

Related reading

Also discussed in the library

Read MacDonald on Chapter 26 →   Top

27 · Mount Ebal: The Law and Its Curses

Deuteronomy 27

After crossing Jordan, Israel was to write the Law on stones at Ebal and say Amen to the curses on disobedience.

  1. Plastered stones bearing the Law and an altar of uncut stone on Ebal Deuteronomy 27:1–8
  2. Now God's people in a special sense, calling for loving obedience Deuteronomy 27:9–10
  3. Tribes placed on Gerizim and Ebal Deuteronomy 27:11–14
    1. Leah's and Rachel's sons on Gerizim for blessing Deuteronomy 27:12
    2. Reuben, Zebulun and the handmaids' sons on Ebal Deuteronomy 27:13
  4. Twelve curses with the people's Amen Deuteronomy 27:15–26
    1. Idolatry, dishonoring parents, moving landmarks Deuteronomy 27:15–17
    2. Misleading the blind, oppressing the weak, sexual sins Deuteronomy 27:18–23
    3. Secret murder, bribery, and breaking the Law Deuteronomy 27:24–26
    4. Fulfilled under Joshua (Joshua 8:30–35)
  5. Only curses are given, for all under law are under the curse (Galatians 3:10) Deuteronomy 27:26

Cross references

Joshua 8:30–35 Galatians 3:10

Lessons

  • The law as a principle can only bring a curse; blessing comes by grace.

Also discussed in the library

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28 · Blessings for Obedience, Curses for Disobedience

Deuteronomy 28

Moses foretells blessing for obedience and terrible, historically fulfilled curses for forsaking the Lord.

  1. Chapter 27 is a parenthesis; 28:1 continues from it Deuteronomy 28:1
  2. Blessings for obedience Deuteronomy 28:1–14
    1. Preeminence, prosperity, fruitfulness and victory Deuteronomy 28:1–7
    2. Lending to nations, not borrowing Deuteronomy 28:12
  3. Curses for disobedience Deuteronomy 28:15–48
    1. Disease, drought, defeat and madness Deuteronomy 28:15–32
    2. Captivity fulfilled under Assyria and Babylon Deuteronomy 28:33–37
    3. Israel a byword among nations Deuteronomy 28:37
    4. Borrowing from strangers (Deuteronomy 28:12 contrasted) Deuteronomy 28:44
  4. Horrors of siege fulfilled under Babylon and Rome Deuteronomy 28:49–57
  5. Plagues, scattering and fearful exile Deuteronomy 28:58–68
    1. Return to Egypt partly fulfilled under Titus (Josephus) Deuteronomy 28:68
    2. "Egypt" may picture servitude in general
  6. Much given, much required (Luke 12:48) Deuteronomy 28:58

Cross references

Luke 12:48

Lessons

  • Greater privilege brings greater accountability.
  • Learn to fear the glorious and awesome name of the Lord.

Also discussed in the library

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29 · The Covenant in Moab

Deuteronomy 29

Moses calls Israel to ratify the covenant in Moab, warns of judgment, and teaches that revelation brings responsibility.

  1. Verse 1 belongs to chapter 28 in the Hebrew Bible Deuteronomy 29:1
  2. Israel lacked a heart to know God despite His wonders Deuteronomy 29:2–9
    1. God longed to give seeing eyes and hearing ears Deuteronomy 29:4
    2. Manna and water taught them to know Him Deuteronomy 29:5–6
    3. Review of victories over Sihon and Og Deuteronomy 29:7–8
  3. All, including future generations, enter the covenant Deuteronomy 29:10–15
  4. No idolater will escape by self-deception Deuteronomy 29:16–21
    1. RSV: "I shall be safe, though I walk in stubbornness" Deuteronomy 29:19
  5. Nations will ask why the land is like Sodom Deuteronomy 29:22–28
  6. Secret things are God's; revealed things are ours to obey Deuteronomy 29:29
    1. Compare James 4:17

Cross references

James 4:17

Lessons

  • Revelation brings responsibility: obey what God has made clear.
  • We are to obey God's Word, not sit in judgment on it.

Also discussed in the library

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30 · Restoration and the Choice of Life

Deuteronomy 30

God promises to restore and renew repentant Israel, and Moses urges the people to choose life.

  1. Exile foreseen, then return and restoration Deuteronomy 30:1–10
    1. Physical regathering and spiritual renewal Deuteronomy 30:3–5
    2. "Circumcise your heart" points to the new covenant Deuteronomy 30:6
    3. See Jeremiah 32:39; Ezekiel 36:24; ratified in Christ's blood (Luke 22:20)
  2. God's counsels never fail, even when His people do Deuteronomy 30:1–10
  3. The word is near you, not out of reach Deuteronomy 30:11–14
    1. Paul applies it to Christ and the gospel (Romans 10:5–8)
    2. Provision for failure: repentance and sacrifice, pointing to Christ
  4. Choose life and blessing, not death Deuteronomy 30:15–20

Cross references

Jeremiah 32:39 Ezekiel 36:24 Luke 22:20 Romans 10:5–8

Lessons

  • God's unconditional love will restore those who return to Him.
  • Those who sin should repent and trust the Lord Jesus Christ.

Also discussed in the library

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31 · Joshua Commissioned and the Law Entrusted

Deuteronomy 31

At 120, Moses encourages the people and Joshua, entrusts the Law to the Levites, and receives a song as a witness.

  1. Moses assures Israel the Lord will go with them under Joshua Deuteronomy 31:1–6
  2. Joshua encouraged publicly Deuteronomy 31:7–8
  3. The written Law entrusted to the Levites Deuteronomy 31:9–13
    1. Kept beside the ark; the tablets were inside (Exodus 25:16; Hebrews 9:4) Deuteronomy 31:9
    2. Read to all the people every seven years Deuteronomy 31:10–13
  4. God foretells apostasy and gives a song as witness Deuteronomy 31:14–22
  5. God personally commissions Joshua Deuteronomy 31:23
    1. He needed courage after hearing of coming apostasy
  6. The Law a witness against Israel; the song delivered Deuteronomy 31:24–30

Cross references

Exodus 25:16 Hebrews 9:4

Related reading

Also discussed in the library

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32 · The Song of Moses

Deuteronomy 32

Moses' song gives a historical and prophetic outline of Israel, from God's care to Israel's rebellion, scattering, and final vindication.

  1. Heaven and earth summoned; ascribe greatness to God Deuteronomy 32:1–3
    1. God's word refreshes like rain and dew Deuteronomy 32:2
    2. Verse 3 could title the whole song Deuteronomy 32:3
  2. A faithful God and a faithless people Deuteronomy 32:4–9
    1. Small thanks for their Father and Creator Deuteronomy 32:6
    2. God provided for Israel first when dividing the nations Deuteronomy 32:8–9
  3. God's tender care like a mother eagle Deuteronomy 32:10–14
  4. Jeshurun grew fat and turned to idols and demons Deuteronomy 32:15–20
    1. They forgot their Rock and Father Deuteronomy 32:18
    2. God hid His face: fulfilled in captivity Deuteronomy 32:19–20
  5. Gentiles blessed to provoke Israel to jealousy Deuteronomy 32:21
    1. As in the present church age
  6. Israel scattered but not destroyed Deuteronomy 32:22–33
    1. Their Rock gave them up, not enemy strength Deuteronomy 32:30–31
  7. Vengeance on the nations; joy for God's land and people Deuteronomy 32:34–43
  8. Moses urges obedience, then views the land from Nebo Deuteronomy 32:44–52
    1. Barred for his sin at Meribah-kadesh Deuteronomy 32:51

Lessons

  • Vengeance belongs to the Lord; He will vindicate His people.

Also discussed in the library

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33 · Moses Blesses the Tribes

Deuteronomy 33

As his final act, Moses pronounces prophetic blessings on the tribes and celebrates God's care for Israel.

  1. God's loving leadership from Sinai to victory Deuteronomy 33:1–5
  2. Blessings on the southern and priestly tribes Deuteronomy 33:6–12
    1. Reuben: prayer that the vulnerable tribe would endure Deuteronomy 33:6
    2. Judah: leader in conquest; Simeon likely included Deuteronomy 33:7
    3. Levi: faithful at the golden calf; teachers and priests Deuteronomy 33:8–11
    4. Benjamin: the beloved, near God's temple Deuteronomy 33:12
  3. Joseph: richly watered land and mighty sons Deuteronomy 33:13–17
  4. Blessings on the remaining tribes Deuteronomy 33:18–25
    1. Zebulun and Issachar: may look to the Millennium Deuteronomy 33:18–19
    2. Gad: fought like a lion, took the leader's portion Deuteronomy 33:20–21
    3. Dan: a lion's cub; Naphtali: full of favor Deuteronomy 33:22–23
    4. Asher: posterity, oil and strength as needed Deuteronomy 33:24–25
  5. The incomparable God and Israel's future blessedness Deuteronomy 33:26–29

Lessons

  • As your days, so shall your strength be.

Related reading

  • “The Bride of the Lamb” (John Gifford Bellett, plymouthbrethren.org) — Bellett: chapter 33 shows Israel blessed in the inheritance

Also discussed in the library

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34 · The Death of Moses

Deuteronomy 34

Moses dies on Nebo, buried by the Lord in secret; Joshua succeeds him, and Moses points forward to the greater Son.

  1. Someone else may have recorded Moses' death Deuteronomy 34:1–4
  2. Moses died and the Lord buried him secretly Deuteronomy 34:5–6
    1. Secrecy prevented a shrine to the lawgiver Deuteronomy 34:6
  3. Still strong at 120; barred for spiritual, not physical, reasons Deuteronomy 34:7
    1. Harmonizes with Deuteronomy 31:2
  4. Joshua takes command as Moses' successor Deuteronomy 34:9
    1. As appointed in Numbers 27:18–23; a sign of Moses' humility
  5. Tribute to Moses, true until Christ came Deuteronomy 34:10–12
  6. Moses a faithful servant; Christ a faithful Son (Hebrews 3:1–6) Deuteronomy 34:5–12
    1. Moses' grave is unknown; Christ's tomb is empty
    2. Christ is worthy of more glory than Moses

Cross references

Deuteronomy 31:2 Numbers 27:18–23 Hebrews 3:5–6 Hebrews 3:1–3

Lessons

  • Consider Jesus, greater than Moses.

Also discussed in the library

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Further reading on Deuteronomy

On plymouthbrethren.org

Every library book that cites Deuteronomy: Scripture index — Deuteronomy

Outline based on Old Testament Digest, Volume 1: Genesis–Deuteronomy by William MacDonald. Copyright © 1981 by William MacDonald. Used by permission of the author (as published on plymouthbrethren.org). williammacdonald.org