Deuteronomy Overview

Who? | Author & Audience

Moses wrote Deuteronomy for the new generation of Israelites that would inherit the land promised to their ancestors by God.

When? | Dates

Deuteronomy covers the timeline of approximately 1446BC-1380BC, and is said to have been written while the Israelites were camped across from the Promised Land, right before entering the land.

Where? | Setting

On the plains of Moab, across the Jordan River from the Promised Land where they camped after their 40 years wandering the wilderness.

What & Why? | Outline & Purpose

Moses reviews the history of the Israelites (1–3)

1. Promises and need for leaders (1)

2. Israel’s journey and rebellion (2-3)

Moses reviews the law for the Israelites (4–28)

1. Commands (4-13)

2. Worship and fellowship (14-26)

Moses reviews the covenant between God and the Israelites (27–30)

Moses' final days (31–34)

How? | Application

• The fifth book of the Pentateuch; the books of Moses.

• Summary of the whole Pentateuch, and the first book of prophecy.

• Tells of Israel's disobedience, destruction and eventual restoration.

• Reminds us that we are called to love and obey God, that God is a promise keeper, and that there are consequences for disobedience as well as the promise of hope to come.

• Updates and expands on the laws for the Israelites as they prepare to enter the Promised Land.

• Focuses on the generation of Israelites that were not present during the events on Mount Sinai.

• Lessons for the Israelites in how God wanted them to live in the land He had been promised to them in their ancestors' lifetime.

• Tells of the last days of Moses' life, and the choosing of his successor.