Bible Study on the Book of Deuteronomy

Verses to read

• “You shall love Yahweh your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your might.”

  Deuteronomy 6:5

• “Yahweh, he it is who goes before you. He will be with you. He will not fail you, neither forsake you. Don’t be afraid. Don’t be dismayed.”

  Deuteronomy 31:8

What is the book of Deuteronomy about?

Deuteronomy is like a long goodbye speech from Moses. The Israelites had been walking in the desert for forty years. The older people had passed away, and their children were now grown up. They were standing at the edge of the land God promised to give them.

Moses wanted to make sure these people knew their history. He reminded them how God rescued them from Egypt and gave them food in the wilderness. He wanted them to stay close to God so they would be safe and happy in their new land.

The most important command in the Bible

In chapter six, Moses gives a famous teaching called the Shema. He tells the people to hear and remember that there is only one God. He says the most important thing they can do is love God with their whole heart, soul, and strength.

Jesus later said this was the greatest commandment of all. This shows us that God cares most about our relationship with Him. He wants us to talk about His words at home, on the road, and when we go to sleep.

Choosing between life and death

Near the end of the book, Moses gives the people a big choice. He says that if they follow God, they will have blessings and life. If they turn away to worship fake gods, they will face trouble and sadness.

God gives us choices too. He does not force us to love Him. He invites us to choose the way of life by listening to His voice. Choosing God’s way leads to peace and goodness.

God is always with His people

Moses was very old and knew he would not go into the new land with the people. He told them not to be afraid because God was the one leading them. He said God would never leave them or give up on them.

This is a great promise for us today. Even when things change or we feel alone, God is still there. We can trust Him to go before us and help us face hard times.

Common questions

Who wrote the book of Deuteronomy?

Most of the book was written by Moses as he spoke to the Israelites. The very end, which tells about Moses dying, was likely added by Joshua or another leader.

What does the word Deuteronomy mean?

It comes from Greek words that mean 'Second Law.' It refers to Moses repeating and explaining the laws God gave at Mount Sinai to a new generation.

How does this book point to Jesus?

Moses tells the people that God will one day send a prophet like him. Christians believe this refers to Jesus, who perfectly leads us and fulfills God's law.