Today's lesson comes from Deuteronomy 31: 30; 32: 1-12. The majority of chapter 32 (vv. 1-43) comprises a beautiful piece of Hebrew poetry. Verses 1-3 is the Introduction. Verses 4-18 compares the Faithfulness of God versus The Unfaithfulness of Israel. Verses 19-33 teaches the Chastisement and the Need for it. Verses 34-43 covers God's Compassion on His People- the Final Triumph of God's Purpose and Grace. Songs such as this one have a definite place in the worship, edification, and instruction of the church (Col. 3: 16).
The first section is "Proclaim His Glory." (vv. 1-3) In this portion, we see Moses's desire to exult the Lord. Consider how his words, like moisture, were intended to produce life and fruitfulness. Moses called the elders and officers together and he gave them a song which they would teach the Israelites. Moses' words would be like a "drop as the rain," which means that the words would be like a gentle rain bringing forth fruit. Moses desired to proclaim the name of the LORD. That name would be of great use in the prevention of sin, and the preservation of the people as they followed God in all His ways.
It should be noted that music is a very important way of remembering things. From learning the ABCs or the year "Columbus sailed the ocean blue," song lyrics have a way of remaining in our memory. The music you hear on Sunday may be in your thoughts long after you have forgotten the pastor's message. I remember one "worship" service I attended and the lyrics were about "sunshine and butterflies." The messages contained in the traditional hymns have depth, doctrine and substance. "What a friend we have in Jesus." "Amazing grace that saved a wretch like me." These words when added to Scripture enable you to face the challenges and the blessings in life. We should choose wisely. What are you proclaiming with your life? What is your song?
The second section is "Corrupted Children." vv. 4-6 In these verses, Moses draws a sharp contrast between God and Israel. The characteristics and deeds of God are: He is a Rock, His work is perfect, His ways are judgment (everything God does is good), He is truthful without iniquity, and He is just and right. In contrast, the Israelites would become corrupt, their ways would not look or represent the ways of God, and they would be perverse and crooked. It would be from a rebellious heart that they would do what is forbidden. Moses asked, "Do ye thus requite (repay) the LORD?" After God had delivered the children of Israel out of Egyptian bondage, preserved them in the wilderness with food and water, given them His Law, and brought them to their inheritance, was this anyway to repay Him for His goodness, grace, and mercy? Moses anticipated that after his death, the Israelites would turn their backs on God. What causes people to turn their backs on God today?
The third section is "The Lord's Portion." vv. 7-9 From asking questions, Moses now begins to give commands, "remember...consider." Moses reminds the Israelites of God's past actions in dealing with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. When we consider God's faithful actions in the past, it should impact our present conduct. From eternity past, God saw the nation of Israel and set the bounds of their habitations. God had in mind His people. He knew exactly what the "number of the children of Israel" would be. In the same way, God has set the bounds of your habitation. It is not an accident or coincidence that you live in the country you do. God has set your bounds. That is a great comfort regardless of the challenges we face today. Israel was, and we are His portion.
The fourth section is "Enduring Love." vv. 10-12 The third and fourth sections of the lesson can be studied together. These verses reveal how God gave consideration to the Israelites, even before they became a nation. His special care is described in verse ten and is illustrated in verse eleven. In the same way, God takes special care of us today including our salvation, protection, instruction, encouragement and support. Strong faith is developed by exercising it. Trust in the Lord's enduring love.
The Golden Text is: "Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits." (Psalm 103: 2) We remember God's past faithfulness towards us and we return our grateful remembrance of those mercies to Him. The past enables us to embrace the struggles and challenges of the future. We must never forget God's faithfulness, grace, and mercy.
My summary points:
1. The LORD's name will prevent sin and preserve us as a people.
2. We must guard against turning our backs on God.
3. God's special care for us should never be forgotten.
Next week: "The Death of Moses." (Deuteronomy 34: 1-12)
Please read the Sunday School Beacon for inspiration and encouragement.
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