TRV
Study This Verse
Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Deuteronomy 1:1–8. His two-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
We have here, I. The date of this sermon which Moses preached to the people of Israel. A great auditory, no question, he had, as many as could crowd within hearing, and particularly all the elders and officers, the representatives of the people; and, probably, it was on the sabbath day that he delivered this to them. 1. The place were they were now encamped was in the plain, in the land of Moab (Deu 1:1, Deu 1:5), where they were just ready to enter Canaan, and engage in a war with the Canaanites. Yet he discourses not to them concerning military affairs, the arts and stratagems of war, but concerning their duty to God; for, if they kept themselves in his fear and favour, he would secure to them the conquest of the land: their religion would be their best policy. 2. The time was near the end of the fortieth year since they came out of Egypt. So long God had borne their manners, and they had borne their own iniquity (Num 14:34), and now that a new and more pleasant scene was to be introduced, as a token for good, Moses repeats the law to them. Thus, after God's controversy with them on account of the golden calf, the first and surest sign of God's being reconciled to them was the renewing of the tables. There is no better evidence and earnest of God's favour than his putting his law in our hearts, Psa 147:19, Psa 147:20.
II.The discourse itself.
In general, Moses spoke unto them all that the Lord had given him in commandment (Deu 1:3), which intimates, not only that what he now delivered was for substance the same with what had formerly been commanded, but that it was what God now commanded him to repeat. He gave them this rehearsal and exhortation purely by divine direction; God appointed him to leave this legacy to the church. He begins his narrative with their removal from Mount Sinai (Deu 1:6), and relates here,
1.The orders which God gave them to decamp, and proceed in their march (Deu 1:6, Deu 1:7): You have dwelt long enough in this mount. This was the mount that burned with fire (Heb 12:18), and gendered to bandage, Gal 4:24. Thither God brought them to humble them, and by the terrors of the law to prepare them for the land of promise. There he kept them about a year, and then told them they had dwelt long enough there, they must go forward. Though God brings his people into trouble and affliction, into spiritual trouble and affliction of mind, he knows when they have dwelt long enough in it, and will certainly find a time, the fittest time, to advance them from the terrors of the spirit of adoption. See Rom 8:15.
2.The prospect which he gave them of a happy and early settlement in Canaan: Go to the land of the Canaanites (Deu 1:7); enter and take possession, it is all your own. Behold I have set the land before you, Deu 1:8. When God commands us to go forward in our Christian course he sets the heavenly Canaan before us for our encouragement.
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Summary
Deuteronomy 1:3 serves as the precise chronological and geographical anchor for the entire book, meticulously dating Moses' final, pivotal address to the nation of Israel. It establishes the setting on the plains of Moab, at the culmination of their forty-year wilderness journey, just as a new generation stands poised on the threshold of the Promised Land. This verse underscores the divine authority of Moses' forthcoming words, presenting them not as his own insights but as the direct, comprehensive commandments given to him by the LORD for His people.
Context
Literary Context
Deuteronomy 1:3 immediately follows a brief introductory verse Deuteronomy 1:1-2 - Introduction to Moses' Address that sets the geographical location ("beyond Jordan in the wilderness, in the plain over against Suph, between Paran, and Tophel, and Laban, and Hazeroth, and Dizahab") and hints at the historical journey ("eleven days' journey from Horeb by the way of mount Seir unto Kadeshbarnea"). Verse 3 then provides the precise chronological marker, grounding Moses' subsequent discourse in a specific moment in Israel's history. This meticulous dating signals the commencement of Moses' grand farewell address, which occupies the vast majority of the book. The verses that follow Deuteronomy 1:4-5 - Moses Begins to Declare the Law further elaborate on the immediate circumstances, mentioning the defeat of Sihon and Og, and stating Moses' intention to "declare this law." Thus, Deuteronomy 1:3 acts as the formal opening of Moses' final, comprehensive sermon, which is a restatement and exposition of the covenant law for the new generation about to enter Canaan.
Historical & Cultural Context
The setting is the plains of Moab, east of the Jordan River, a strategic location from which the Israelites would launch their conquest of Canaan. This moment, the first day of the eleventh month in the fortieth year after the Exodus, signifies the end of a long period of divine judgment and purification in the wilderness Numbers 14:34 - The Forty Years of Wilderness Wandering. The generation that rebelled at Kadesh-Barnea and was condemned to die in the wilderness had largely passed away. Moses is addressing a new generation, born and raised in the wilderness, who had not personally witnessed the Exodus plagues, the crossing of the Red Sea, or the initial giving of the Law at Mount Sinai. Culturally, they were transitioning from a nomadic existence to preparing for settled life in an agricultural land, necessitating a renewed understanding and commitment to the covenant stipulations. Moses' address, therefore, functions as a covenant renewal ceremony, preparing them not only militarily but, more importantly, spiritually and legally for their inheritance.
Key Themes
Deuteronomy 1:3 introduces several foundational themes that permeate the book. Firstly, it highlights Divine Sovereignty and Timing, emphasizing that Israel's journey and entry into the land are precisely orchestrated by God, not by chance. The forty-year period, a consequence of their disobedience (as described in Numbers 14:34), is now complete, and God's promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob is on the verge of fulfillment (see Genesis 12:7). Secondly, the verse underscores Moses' Mediatorial Authority and Fidelity. Moses' words are presented as a direct, comprehensive transmission of "all that the LORD had given him in commandment," affirming the divine origin and absolute authority of the Law. This prepares the audience to receive his words as God's very own. Finally, it sets the stage for the theme of Covenant Renewal and Obedience. The entire book of Deuteronomy is essentially a re-presentation of the Sinai covenant (first given in Exodus 19:5) to a new generation, urging them to remember God's past faithfulness and to commit to wholehearted obedience as the condition for blessing in the Promised Land (as promised in Deuteronomy 28:1-14).
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This numerical designation is highly significant, marking the completion of the wilderness wandering period. In biblical numerology, "forty" often signifies a period of testing, judgment, or preparation (e.g., forty days of flood, forty years in the wilderness, forty days of Jesus' temptation). Here, it marks the end of God's judgment on the rebellious generation and the readiness of the new generation to enter the land, symbolizing a transition from punishment to promise.
This verb signifies more than casual speech; it implies a formal, authoritative declaration, often associated with prophetic utterance or divine communication. Moses' speaking is not merely recounting history but delivering God's authoritative word, emphasizing the prophetic and legislative nature of his address. This word choice reinforces the divine origin of the message he is about to deliver.
This term, derived from the Hebrew verb tsâvâh, signifies more than a mere instruction; it implies a formal enjoinment, constitution, or charge given by divine authority. The phrase "all that the LORD had given him in commandment" stresses the completeness and divine origin of the instructions Moses is about to impart. It indicates that the entire discourse of Deuteronomy is not Moses' personal reflection or interpretation, but a faithful and comprehensive relaying of God's revealed will, underscoring its binding and authoritative nature.
Verse Breakdown
"And it came to pass in the fortieth year, in the eleventh month, on the first [day] of the month"
This precise chronological marker immediately establishes the historical setting. It signifies the culmination of the forty years of wilderness wandering, a period of divine discipline and preparation. The specificity of the date (the first day of the eleventh month) emphasizes the divine punctuality and purposefulness in Israel's history, indicating that God's plan is unfolding according to His exact timetable, just weeks before the crossing of the Jordan.
"[that] Moses spake unto the children of Israel"
This clause identifies the central figure and the audience. Moses, as God's chosen mediator, is about to deliver his final, comprehensive address. The audience, "the children of Israel," represents the new generation, poised to enter the Promised Land, who need to hear and recommit to the covenant. This highlights the intergenerational transmission of faith and law.
"according unto all that the LORD had given him in commandment unto them"
This crucial phrase establishes the divine authority and comprehensive nature of Moses' message. His words are not his own but a faithful and complete transmission of God's revealed will. "All" (Hebrew, kol) emphasizes the entirety and integrity of the divine instructions, ensuring that Deuteronomy is understood as divinely inspired law, binding upon the people. This sets the tone for the book as a reiteration and exposition of the covenant, directly from God through His chosen servant.
Literary Devices
Deuteronomy 1:3 employs several literary devices to establish its tone and significance. The most prominent is Precision, particularly in its chronological dating. The meticulous detailing of "the fortieth year, in the eleventh month, on the first [day] of the month" serves to ground the narrative firmly in historical reality, lending credibility and gravitas to Moses' subsequent discourse. This precision also highlights God's meticulous Providence, demonstrating that Israel's journey and the timing of this address are not random but part of a divinely orchestrated plan. The phrase "Moses spake unto the children of Israel, according unto all that the LORD had given him in commandment unto them" utilizes Attribution of Authority, clearly indicating that Moses is not speaking on his own initiative but as a direct conduit for divine revelation. This establishes the Divine Inspiration and binding nature of the entire book of Deuteronomy, framing it as the authoritative word of God rather than human wisdom.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Deuteronomy 1:3 serves as a profound theological statement about God's faithfulness, His covenant relationship with Israel, and the enduring authority of His Word. The precise timing of Moses' address underscores God's meticulous orchestration of history, fulfilling His promises and bringing His people to the threshold of their inheritance at the appointed moment. This divine punctuality reinforces the theme of God's unwavering commitment to His covenant, even in the face of human rebellion and delay. Moses' role as the faithful conveyor of "all that the LORD had given him in commandment" establishes the absolute authority and completeness of the Law, emphasizing that true life and blessing are found in wholehearted obedience to God's revealed will. This verse thus sets the stage for a book that is both a historical review and a prophetic call to covenant fidelity, reminding Israel of their identity as God's chosen people and their obligations under His divine rule.
Reflection and Application
Deuteronomy 1:3 offers timeless lessons for believers today. Just as God meticulously guided Israel through their wilderness journey and brought them to the precise moment for entering the Promised Land, so too does He orchestrate the seasons and transitions of our lives. This verse calls us to trust in God's perfect timing, even when our paths seem long or difficult, knowing that His purposes will be fulfilled. Furthermore, Moses' faithful delivery of "all that the LORD had given him in commandment" serves as a powerful reminder of the supreme authority and sufficiency of God's Word. We are called not to pick and choose which parts of Scripture we will obey, but to embrace the full counsel of God, allowing it to shape every aspect of our lives. As we stand on the threshold of new seasons or challenges, like Israel on the plains of Moab, this verse encourages us to revisit God's past faithfulness, renew our commitment to His commands, and prepare ourselves spiritually for what lies ahead, confident that His Word is our unfailing guide.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why is the precise dating in Deuteronomy 1:3 so important?
The precise dating ("the fortieth year, in the eleventh month, on the first [day] of the month") is crucial for several reasons. First, it firmly anchors Moses' address in a specific historical moment, just weeks before Israel's entry into the Promised Land, marking the culmination of their forty-year wilderness journey. This chronological precision underscores God's meticulous providence and faithfulness, demonstrating that He fulfills His promises and plans at His appointed time, even after a period of judgment (as seen in Numbers 14:34). Second, it establishes the urgency and significance of Moses' message. He is speaking to a new generation on the cusp of a monumental transition, needing to hear and commit to the covenant before entering the land. Finally, it provides a historical framework for understanding the entire book of Deuteronomy as Moses' farewell address, a comprehensive review and renewal of the covenant for the generation that would inherit Canaan.
What does "according unto all that the LORD had given him in commandment unto them" imply about the book of Deuteronomy?
This phrase is foundational for understanding the nature and authority of Deuteronomy. It implies that the book is not merely Moses' personal reflections or historical accounts, but a divinely inspired and comprehensive revelation of God's will. Moses is presented as a faithful mediator, transmitting God's exact instructions ("all that the LORD had given him in commandment"). This emphasizes the completeness and integrity of the Law presented in Deuteronomy. It means that every statute, ordinance, and exhortation within the book carries the full weight of divine authority, serving as the binding covenant stipulations for Israel. This also sets Deuteronomy apart as a unique and authoritative summary of God's covenant requirements, essential for Israel's life and success in the Promised Land.
How does Deuteronomy 1:3 connect to the broader narrative of the Pentateuch?
Deuteronomy 1:3 serves as a pivotal bridge within the Pentateuch. It marks the culmination of the wilderness narrative found in Exodus, Leviticus, and Numbers, bringing Israel to the very edge of the Promised Land after forty years of wandering (as detailed in Numbers 14:34). It signals the transition from the generation of the Exodus to the generation of the Conquest, highlighting the transfer of leadership and the renewal of the covenant for those who would inherit the land. Moses' address, rooted in God's previous commandments, re-establishes the continuity of God's covenant relationship with His people, reminding them of His faithfulness from Abraham onward (beginning in Genesis 12:1-3) and their obligations under the Law given at Sinai (as recorded in Exodus 19:5). Thus, Deuteronomy 1:3 sets the stage for the final instructions and exhortations that prepare Israel for the fulfillment of God's promises in the book of Joshua.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Deuteronomy 1:3, with its emphasis on divine timing and the faithful delivery of God's commandments by Moses, profoundly foreshadows the ultimate revelation of God's will in Jesus Christ. Just as Moses stood as mediator between God and Israel, delivering "all that the LORD had given him in commandment," so Jesus is the supreme and perfect mediator of a new covenant, embodying and fulfilling the very Law that Moses delivered. The precise timing of Moses' address, at the culmination of a long journey and on the cusp of a new era, mirrors the "fullness of time" when God sent His Son (as declared in Galatians 4:4). Jesus did not come to abolish the Law but to fulfill it (as He states in Matthew 5:17), perfectly embodying its righteous demands and revealing its ultimate purpose. He is the Word made flesh (found in John 1:14), the complete and final revelation of God, surpassing any previous prophet or mediator (as affirmed in Hebrews 1:1-2). Through His obedient life, atoning death, and resurrection, Jesus accomplished what the Law could only command, providing the means for true covenant relationship and entry into the ultimate "Promised Land" – the eternal kingdom of God. As the true prophet greater than Moses (foretold in Deuteronomy 18:15 and confirmed in Acts 3:22), Jesus speaks with ultimate authority, not merely according to what the LORD had given Him, but as the LORD Himself, inviting all to enter into His rest (as promised in Matthew 11:28-30).