Deuteronomy

BY She Reads Truth

This Is the Old Testament is part of a twelve-week thematic overview of the entire Bible. As we read, we’ll gain a broader understanding of the redemptive story of Scripture. Each day we’ll read a thematic selection from a different book of the Bible, along with supplemental passages that show how the theme of that day’s main reading is found throughout Scripture. We’ll also read a brief summary of each book and a reflection on how the book fits into the larger story of Scripture. 

What Is Deuteronomy? The book of Deuteronomy, meaning “second law” or “repetition of the law,” contains commentary on the law given to Moses at Mount Sinai, which equipped the covenant community of Israel with instruction on how to live faithfully in their covenant with God. In Deuteronomy, Moses repeats the law to the new generation of Israelites preparing to enter into the promised land after forty years of wandering in the wilderness.   

How Deuteronomy Fits Into the Story: Deuteronomy emphasizes the need for God’s law to be internalized into the hearts and minds of God’s people. After the books of Psalms and Isaiah, the New Testament alludes to Deuteronomy more than any other book in the Old Testament. Jesus and the apostles considered the book of Deuteronomy to be vital in their own teaching about God and His relationship with His chosen people and all of humanity. When Jesus was tempted in the wilderness, He quoted Deuteronomy to rebuke Satan (Lk 4:1–13).

Reflection Questions: 
1. How does your reading in Deuteronomy point to God’s faithfulness, holiness, and justice as motivation for obedience to the law? 
2. How does today’s reading shape your understanding of the story of redemption?

Take time to reflect on your responses and share what you are learning with others in the community in the comments.