Deuteronomy 18:18

KJV

I will raise them up a Prophet from among their brethren, like unto thee, and will put my words in his mouth; and he shall speak unto them all that I shall command him.

KJV (with Strong's)

I will raise them up {H6965} a Prophet {H5030} from among {H7130} their brethren {H251}, like unto thee, and will put {H5414} my words {H1697} in his mouth {H6310}; and he shall speak {H1696} unto them all that I shall command {H6680} him.

Complete Jewish Bible

I will raise up for them a prophet like you from among their kinsmen. I will put my words in his mouth, and he will tell them everything I order him.

Berean Standard Bible

I will raise up for them a prophet like you from among their brothers. I will put My words in his mouth, and he will tell them everything I command him.

American Standard Version

I will raise them up a prophet from among their brethren, like unto thee; and I will put my words in his mouth, and he shall speak unto them all that I shall command him.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Deuteronomy 18:18 stands as a profound prophetic declaration from God to Israel, promising the advent of a unique and authoritative prophet. This divinely appointed messenger, explicitly likened to Moses, would emerge from within the Israelite community, serving as God's direct and infallible spokesman. His mission would be to faithfully declare all that God commanded, establishing a legitimate and pure channel of divine revelation in contrast to the forbidden practices of divination prevalent among surrounding nations, thereby laying a foundational expectation for the ultimate revelation of God's will.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within a larger section of Deuteronomy (chapters 12-26) that outlines the statutes and ordinances for Israel as they prepare to inherit the Promised Land. Specifically, Deuteronomy 18 addresses the proper worship of Yahweh and the avoidance of pagan practices. Verses 9-14 sternly condemn various forms of divination, sorcery, necromancy, and consulting mediums, which were abhorrent to God and common among the Canaanite nations. In direct antithesis to these illicit means of seeking knowledge and guidance, verses 15-19 present God's legitimate and divinely sanctioned method of communication: the true prophet. This immediate context highlights the purity and authority of God's chosen messenger, distinguishing Israel's divine guidance from the deceptive practices of their neighbors.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Ancient Near Eastern cultures were deeply immersed in various forms of divination, seeking to discern the will of their gods or predict the future through omens, augury, magic, and consulting spirits of the dead. Israel, upon entering Canaan, would be exposed to these practices, making God's explicit prohibition and the provision of a true prophet critically important for maintaining their distinct identity and covenant relationship. Moses, as the mediator of the Old Covenant and the one through whom God delivered the Law, served as the quintessential prophet for Israel. The promise of a prophet "like unto thee" would resonate deeply with a people who had experienced God's direct communication through Moses, setting a high standard for future divine spokesmen and distinguishing Yahweh's direct, personal revelation from the impersonal, often manipulative, practices of other religions.
* **Key Themes:** Deuteronomy 18:18 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within Deuteronomy and the broader Pentateuch. It underscores the theme of **divine revelation**, emphasizing God's commitment to communicate His will directly and clearly to His people, in stark contrast to the pagan practices condemned in [Deuteronomy 18:9-14](/deuteronomy/18-9 "Deuteronomy 18:9-14 - Warning Against Abominable Practices"). The verse also develops the theme of **covenant faithfulness**, as God provides a means for Israel to remain obedient and guided within the covenant relationship, ensuring they do not stray after false gods or deceptive practices. Furthermore, it introduces a profound **messianic expectation**, though initially understood in a broader sense of a prophetic succession, ultimately pointing to a singular, ultimate prophet. The phrase "like unto thee" links this future prophet directly to Moses' unique role as lawgiver, mediator, and one who spoke with God "face to face" as seen in [Deuteronomy 34:10](/deuteronomy/34-10 "Deuteronomy 34:10 - Moses' Unique Relationship with God"), setting the stage for a figure of unparalleled authority and intimacy with God.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Prophet (Hebrew, _nāḇî’_):** This term (נָבִיא) denotes one who is called by God to speak on His behalf, acting as an authorized messenger or spokesman. Unlike a diviner who attempts to manipulate divine will or extract information through forbidden means, a _nāḇî’_ is a passive recipient of God's word, faithfully delivering it without alteration. The emphasis is on divine initiative and authoritative declaration.
* **Like unto thee (Hebrew, _kāmōḵā_):** The phrase (כָּמֹכָה), literally "like you," is profoundly significant. It establishes a direct comparison between the promised prophet and Moses, who was unparalleled in Israel's history for his direct communication with God, his role as a lawgiver, and his mediation of the covenant. This likeness implies not just a similar office, but a similar intimacy with God, authority, and ability to mediate divine truth, setting this future prophet apart from all others.
* **Put my words in his mouth (Hebrew, _nāṯattî ḏəḇārāy bəpîw_):** This idiomatic expression (נָתַתִּי דְבָרַי בְּפִיו) signifies divine inspiration and authority. It means the prophet's message originates entirely from God, not from human wisdom or speculation. The prophet is merely the conduit, ensuring the infallibility and truthfulness of the message delivered. This phrase is a hallmark of genuine prophecy, distinguishing it from false prophecy where words originate from human imagination or demonic influence.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"I will raise them up a Prophet from among their brethren":** This clause emphasizes God's sovereign initiative in providing a legitimate channel of communication for His people. The prophet will not be self-appointed or emerge from pagan practices, but will be divinely chosen and appointed. The phrase "from among their brethren" highlights that this prophet will be an Israelite, identifiable with the people, yet set apart by God for this unique role.
* **"like unto thee":** This crucial phrase establishes an unparalleled comparison between the coming prophet and Moses. Moses was unique as the mediator of the covenant, the lawgiver, and one who spoke with God "face to face" ([Deuteronomy 34:10](/deuteronomy/34-10 "Deuteronomy 34:10 - Moses' Unique Relationship with God")). The future prophet would possess a similar, if not greater, intimacy with God and authority in delivering divine revelation, distinguishing him from all other prophets who would follow.
* **"and will put my words in his mouth":** This signifies the divine origin and authority of the prophet's message. The words spoken are not the prophet's own, but God's. This guarantees the truthfulness, infallibility, and binding nature of the message, making the prophet a direct conduit for divine revelation and ensuring that what is spoken is precisely what God intends.
* **"and he shall speak unto them all that I shall command him":** This final clause underscores the prophet's absolute faithfulness and obedience to God's commission. The prophet is not to add to or subtract from God's message, but to deliver it completely and accurately. This reinforces the concept of divine authority and the prophet's role as a faithful messenger, ensuring the integrity of God's communication to His people.

#### Literary Devices
Deuteronomy 18:18 employs several potent literary devices to convey its profound message. The most prominent is **Prophecy**, as the verse explicitly foretells the coming of a future, divinely appointed messenger, establishing an expectation for divine revelation beyond Moses. The phrase "like unto thee" functions as a powerful **Simile** and **Typology**, drawing a direct parallel between the promised prophet and Moses, not merely in office but in unique intimacy with God and authority. This simile elevates the future prophet to an unparalleled status, hinting at a figure of immense significance. Furthermore, the declaration "I will put my words in his mouth" uses **Metonymy**, where "words in his mouth" stands for the divine inspiration and authority of the prophet's message, emphasizing that the message originates from God and is conveyed through the prophet as a faithful instrument. This combination of devices imbues the verse with both predictive power and profound theological weight, setting the stage for a pivotal figure in salvation history.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Deuteronomy 18:18 is a cornerstone prophecy concerning divine revelation and the nature of God's communication with humanity. It establishes the principle that God, in His faithfulness, will not leave His people without guidance, providing a legitimate and authoritative voice in contrast to the deceptive practices of the surrounding nations. The promise of a prophet "like Moses" elevates this future figure to a unique status, implying a mediator of a new covenant or a new phase of divine revelation, one who would possess unparalleled intimacy with God and authority to speak His very words. This verse sets the stage for the entire prophetic tradition in Israel, culminating in the ultimate Prophet who would perfectly fulfill this promise. It underscores God's active involvement in human history, guiding His people through His chosen spokesmen, and highlights the imperative to heed His divinely inspired word.

* [Deuteronomy 34:10](/deuteronomy/34-10 "Deuteronomy 34:10 - Moses' Unique Relationship with God")
* [Acts 3:22-23](/acts/3-22 "Acts 3:22-23 - Peter's Application of Deuteronomy 18:18 to Jesus")
* [Hebrews 1:1-2](/hebrews/1-1 "Hebrews 1:1-2 - God's Final Revelation Through His Son")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Deuteronomy 18:18 calls us to a profound appreciation for God's commitment to communicating with humanity. In a world filled with competing voices, false prophecies, and deceptive ideologies, this verse reminds us that God has provided a clear, authoritative, and trustworthy channel for His truth. Just as ancient Israel was warned against seeking guidance from forbidden sources, we too must exercise discernment, grounding our understanding of truth in God's revealed word through His appointed messenger. The promise of a prophet "like Moses" invites us to consider the unparalleled authority and intimacy with God that such a figure would possess, urging us to listen attentively and obediently to His voice. This passage challenges us to examine where we seek guidance and wisdom, encouraging us to turn always to the ultimate source of truth and life, embracing the words of the One sent by God to speak His perfect will. Our spiritual nourishment and direction depend on our willingness to hear and obey the divine message.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does God's promise to raise up a prophet "like Moses" shape our understanding of divine revelation and authority?**
* **In what ways do we, like ancient Israel, face the temptation to seek guidance from sources other than God's revealed word?**
* **What does it mean to truly "put God's words in one's mouth" in our own lives, as we seek to speak truth to others?**
* **How does discerning true prophecy from false prophecy remain relevant for believers today?**

### FAQ
**Was Deuteronomy 18:18 fulfilled by other prophets before Jesus?**

Answer: While Deuteronomy 18:18 certainly established the office of the prophet in Israel, and many subsequent prophets like Samuel, Elijah, and Isaiah did speak God's words, they were not "like Moses" in the unique, comprehensive sense implied by the prophecy. Moses was unique as the lawgiver, the mediator of the covenant, and one who spoke with God "face to face" ([Deuteronomy 34:10](/deuteronomy/34-10 "Deuteronomy 34:10 - Moses' Unique Relationship with God")). No other Old Testament prophet fully embodied this unparalleled likeness. The New Testament explicitly applies this prophecy to Jesus, indicating that He is the ultimate and complete fulfillment, surpassing all other prophets in His nature, authority, and mediatorial role.

**Why is it important that the prophet comes "from among their brethren"?**

Answer: The phrase "from among their brethren" emphasizes that the promised prophet would be a fellow Israelite, identifiable with the people, rather than a foreign figure or a divine being appearing in an unmediated way. This ensures relatability and accessibility, as the prophet would understand the people's context and speak in a way they could comprehend. More profoundly, for the ultimate fulfillment in Jesus, it highlights His humanity and His identification with humanity, being "born of a woman, born under the law" ([Galatians 4:4](/galatians/4-4 "Galatians 4:4 - God Sent His Son")). This human connection allows for a unique mediatorial role, as He can fully represent both God to humanity and humanity to God.

**How does this verse relate to the warnings against divination in the preceding verses?**

Answer: Deuteronomy 18:18 stands in direct contrast to the warnings against divination, sorcery, and other forbidden practices in [Deuteronomy 18:9-14](/deuteronomy/18-9 "Deuteronomy 18:9-14 - Warning Against Abominable Practices"). The preceding verses condemn all illicit means of seeking knowledge or guidance that involve manipulating spiritual forces or consulting sources other than God. In response, God promises a legitimate, pure, and divinely sanctioned channel of communication: a true prophet who speaks only what God commands. This highlights God's sovereignty over revelation and His desire for His people to seek Him through His appointed means, distinguishing Israel's relationship with Yahweh from the pagan practices of surrounding nations.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Deuteronomy 18:18 finds its ultimate, comprehensive, and perfect fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The early church, particularly Peter in [Acts 3:22-23](/acts/3-22 "Acts 3:22-23 - Peter's Sermon in Solomon's Portico") and Stephen in [Acts 7:37](/acts/7-37 "Acts 7:37 - Stephen's Speech Before the Sanhedrin"), explicitly identified Jesus as "the Prophet like Moses." Jesus, indeed, was raised "from among their brethren," fully human, yet uniquely divine. He surpassed Moses in every way: Moses mediated the Old Covenant, but Jesus inaugurated the New Covenant through His blood ([Luke 22:20](/luke/22-20 "Luke 22:20 - The New Covenant in Jesus' Blood")). While Moses spoke with God face-to-face, Jesus is God, the Word made flesh ([John 1:1](/john/1-1 "John 1:1 - The Word Was God"); [John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")). Crucially, God "put His words in His mouth" to an unparalleled degree, for Jesus spoke not His own words, but the very words of the Father, revealing God perfectly and completely ([John 12:49-50](/john/12-49 "John 12:49-50 - Jesus Speaks the Father's Words"); [John 14:10](/john/14-10 "John 14:10 - Jesus in the Father and the Father in Jesus")). He is the final and supreme revelation of God, through whom God has spoken His last and definitive word to humanity ([Hebrews 1:1-2](/hebrews/1-1 "Hebrews 1:1-2 - God Has Spoken Through His Son")). Therefore, to hear Jesus is to hear God Himself, and to obey Him is to obey God, making Him the ultimate Prophet to whom all must listen.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Deuteronomy 18:15

¶ The LORD thy God will raise up unto thee a Prophet from the midst of thee, of thy brethren, like unto me; unto him ye shall hearken;

John 8:28

Then said Jesus unto them, When ye have lifted up the Son of man, then shall ye know that I am [he], and [that] I do nothing of myself; but as my Father hath taught me, I speak these things.

John 12:49

For I have not spoken of myself; but the Father which sent me, he gave me a commandment, what I should say, and what I should speak.

John 12:50

And I know that his commandment is life everlasting: whatsoever I speak therefore, even as the Father said unto me, so I speak.

John 4:25

The woman saith unto him, I know that Messias cometh, which is called Christ: when he is come, he will tell us all things.

Luke 24:19

And he said unto them, What things? And they said unto him, Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, which was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people:

Malachi 3:1

¶ Behold, I will send my messenger, and he shall prepare the way before me: and the Lord, whom ye seek, shall suddenly come to his temple, even the messenger of the covenant, whom ye delight in: behold, he shall come, saith the LORD of hosts.