Deuteronomy 31: Group Study Handout

How to use: read Deuteronomy 31 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

Moses addresses all Israel, acknowledging he is one hundred twenty years old and can no longer lead them (vv. 1-2). He tells them that Yahweh will lead them into the land, promising destruction of the nations before them and the role of Joshua as their leader (vv.

Key verse

“Be strong and courageous. Don’t be afraid or scared of them; for Yahweh your God himself is who goes with you. He will not fail you nor forsake you.”
Deuteronomy 31:6 (WEB)

Outline

Deuteronomy 31:1–2 Moses Addresses Israel
Deuteronomy 31:3–6 God's Assurance of Leadership
Deuteronomy 31:7–8 Commissioning Joshua
Deuteronomy 31:9–13 Written Law and Public Reading
Deuteronomy 31:14–18 God's Warning of Future Rebellion
Deuteronomy 31:19–22 A Song as Witness
Deuteronomy 31:23–30 Final Instructions and Song

Discussion questions

In v6, what does Moses tell the people about Yahweh's presence with them?
In v14, where does Yahweh instruct Moses to present himself and Joshua?
Moses' song in vv. 19-21: what role does it play in Israel's future behavior?
In v27, what does Moses imply about the people's obedience after his death?
How does the command to read the law in v11 affect your understanding of communal responsibilities?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Deuteronomy 31: Joshua 1, Isaiah 41, Hebrews 13.

Before next time: read Deuteronomy 32.