In Deuteronomy 30:11-20, Moses reaches the climax of his final sermon. He lays out again the two paths the Israelites can take in the future, with the consequences of each.
Moses emphasizes that the task set before them is something that they are capable of accomplishing---walking in loyalty to God. (Note that they are not required to be sinless.) Far from being an impossible burden, the instruction he has given them is something they can comprehend. It is not something esoteric. They won't need to climb a mountain in Tibet seeking enlightenment (or seek out the "Wise Ass on the Hill" like the pig in the Pearls Before Swine comic strip).
In his epistle to the Romans, Paul quotes Deuteronomy 30 to make a similar point about salvation by faith in Jesus the Messiah (Rom 10:6-13). Although Jesus is not with us physically, he is present with us and will aid us in following him.
Having reached the end of his life, Moses wants to be sure the Israelites are fully prepared to cross the Jordan and take the Promised Land. He encourages Joshua, his successor, and the people to go forward in faith and courage (Dt 31:1-8).
Moses writes down the instruction he has given in his final sermons, and he specifies that it be read to the people every seven years at the Feast of Tabernacles (vv 9=13). This will be yet another opportunity for covenant renewal, so that each generation can feel connected to God and keep Israel's mission in mind.
In a sermon at Church of the Messiah on September 2, 2023, Kyle Kettering began in Psalm 148, which calls on all the universe to praise God because
- he is our Creator;
- he establishes a pattern for everything;
- he is our King;
- he has provided protection/salvation to his people, who are near to him.
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