This is part of a video series covering the entire Bible in 4 years, one chapter at a time. Start at the beginning with Genesis 1 (Youtube link: https://youtu.be/wC2qD4RGOdo) and work through the playlist. Or go to https://www.peace.org.au/bible.html for more information.
In this video listen to Deuteronomy 29 read by David Alley, followed by comments and prayer.
In Deuteronomy 29 Moses makes a distinction between the law given at Horeb and the law here on the plains of Moab. There are not two laws, but one. The naming of the book Deutero Nomah in greek doesn’t mean there were two laws, but rather the second time the law was reiterated. Here the people have agreed to its terms in a binding way.
In verse 4 Moses observed that even though they saw God’s wonders, they did not have a heart to see, or ears to hear. Their hearts were not enlightened. It's possible to be in church for a lifetime and not see the wonders of God. In Ephesians 1:18 Paul told the church that he always prayed that their hearts would be enlightened. This is the need of every believer.
In verse 15 Moses comments that this covenant is also for some who are not present as he spoke. This is a covenant made with their descendants too, even though they are not present. This is the nature of God, being a generational God. He was the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, even when it was just Abraham. And so are the Lord’s dealings with us, they are for our children too, both natural and spiritual, and we are to walk with them as we also do with the Lord. The consequences of our lives go far beyond us.
In verse 22-24 it compares the future judgement with Sodom and Gomorrah. In Genesis the land of Sodom and Gomorrah was so desirable for sheep and goats that Lot wanted it for his flocks. He looked up and saw the green pastures. Today it is pure desert. Thus Sodom and Gomorrah are a great illustration of the dryness that comes on those who turn their backs on the Lord.
Verse 29 is a very memorable verse, often quoted by preachers. It states that the secret things belong to God. There is a lot about God we do not understand, and there must be many secrets. This is what eternity with God is all about. Getting to know God requires an eternity because of the nature of who He is. Meanwhile on the earth, we trust Him while we seek to Know Him.
Jul 11, 2021 | Message by David Alley