Deuteronomy 1: Group Study Handout

How to use: read Deuteronomy 1 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

Moses spoke to all Israel beyond the Jordan in the wilderness, recounting their journey and God's commands (vv. 1-5). He recalled how Yahweh commanded them at Horeb to leave the mountain and journey to the land promised to their ancestors (vv.

Key verse

“Surely not one of these men of this evil generation shall see the good land, which I swore to give to your fathers,”
Deuteronomy 1:35 (WEB)

Outline

Deuteronomy 1:1–5 Moses Addresses Israel
Deuteronomy 1:6–11 Recall of God's Command
Deuteronomy 1:12–18 Appointment of Leaders
Deuteronomy 1:19–25 Journey to Kadesh Barnea
Deuteronomy 1:26–39 Rebellion and Consequences
Deuteronomy 1:40–46 Final Instructions and Mourning

Discussion questions

In v6, why does Moses say 'You have lived long enough at this mountain'?
In v26, why do the people 'rebelled against the commandment of Yahweh'?
Moses' statement in v22: why does he agree to send spies after God's command to possess the land?
The phrase 'evil generation' in v35: what does it indicate about the people's faith during their journey?
When have you faced a situation where fear led you to doubt God's provision, like in v27?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Deuteronomy 1: Numbers 14, Exodus 14, Numbers 13.

Before next time: read Deuteronomy 2.