Deuteronomy 27:3

Write on them all the words of this law when you have crossed over to enter the land that the LORD your God is giving you, a land flowing with milk and honey, just as the LORD, the God of your fathers, has promised you.

Study Bible

Write on them all the words of this law
The act of writing the law on stones signifies the permanence and unchanging nature of God's commandments. In Hebrew, the word for "write" is "כָּתַב" (katav), which implies inscribing or engraving, suggesting a deep, lasting impression. This act is a physical manifestation of the covenant between God and Israel, emphasizing the importance of the law in guiding the moral and spiritual life of the people. It serves as a reminder that God's word is to be internalized and lived out daily.

when you have crossed over
This phrase marks a significant transition for the Israelites, moving from the wilderness into the Promised Land. The Hebrew root "עָבַר" (avar) means to pass over or through, symbolizing not just a physical crossing but a spiritual and covenantal transition. It represents a new chapter in the life of the nation, where they are called to live out their identity as God's chosen people in a new land.

so that you may enter the land
The purpose of writing the law is directly linked to entering the land. The Hebrew word for "enter" is "בּוֹא" (bo), which conveys the idea of coming into a place of rest and fulfillment. This entry is conditional upon obedience to God's law, highlighting the covenantal relationship where blessings are tied to faithfulness.

the LORD your God is giving you
This phrase underscores the divine initiative and grace in the gift of the land. The name "LORD" (YHWH) is the covenant name of God, emphasizing His faithfulness and sovereignty. The verb "giving" (נָתַן, natan) indicates a continuous action, suggesting that the land is not just a one-time gift but an ongoing provision from God, contingent upon Israel's obedience.

a land flowing with milk and honey
This description paints a picture of abundance and prosperity. The phrase "flowing with milk and honey" is a metaphor for fertility and plenty, indicating a land rich in resources. Historically, this reflects the agricultural richness of Canaan, a land capable of sustaining the nation. Spiritually, it symbolizes the blessings and abundance found in living according to God's will.

just as the LORD, the God of your fathers, promised you
This phrase connects the present generation with the patriarchs—Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob—highlighting the continuity of God's promises. The Hebrew word for "promised" (דָּבַר, dabar) also means to speak, indicating that God's word is as good as His promise. This assurance of God's faithfulness serves as a foundation for trust and obedience, reminding the Israelites that God's promises are sure and steadfast across generations.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who is delivering God's commandments and instructions to the people.

2. The Israelites
The chosen people of God who are about to enter the Promised Land.

3. The Jordan River
The significant geographical boundary that the Israelites must cross to enter the Promised Land.

4. The Promised Land
The land of Canaan, described as "a land flowing with milk and honey," promised by God to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

5. The Law
Refers to the commandments and statutes given by God to the Israelites, which they are to inscribe on stones as a perpetual reminder.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Remembrance
The act of writing the law on stones serves as a physical reminder of God's commandments and promises. In our lives, we should find ways to continually remind ourselves of God's word and His faithfulness.

Obedience as a Path to Blessing
The Israelites' entry into the Promised Land is contingent upon their obedience to God's law. Similarly, our spiritual blessings are often tied to our obedience to God's commands.

The Significance of God's Promises
The description of the land as "flowing with milk and honey" emphasizes the abundance and goodness of God's promises. We should trust in God's promises, knowing that He is faithful to fulfill them.

The Role of Community in Faith
The communal act of inscribing the law underscores the importance of community in upholding and living out God's commandments. We should encourage and support one another in our faith journeys.

The Transition from Old to New
The crossing of the Jordan symbolizes a transition from the old life in the wilderness to a new life in the Promised Land. In Christ, we experience a similar transition from the old life of sin to a new life of grace.

Bible Study Questions

1. What significance does the act of writing the law on stones hold for the Israelites, and how can we apply this principle of remembrance in our daily lives?

2. How does the promise of a "land flowing with milk and honey" reflect God's character, and what promises of God are you holding onto today?

3. In what ways can we ensure that God's word is not only written in our hearts but also evident in our actions and decisions?

4. How does the communal aspect of inscribing the law on stones inform our understanding of the role of community in our spiritual growth?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced a transition in your spiritual life. How did God's promises and commands guide you through that transition?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 4
This chapter describes the crossing of the Jordan River and the setting up of memorial stones, which parallels the command in Deuteronomy 27:3 to inscribe the law on stones.

Exodus 3:8
This verse describes God's promise to bring the Israelites to a land flowing with milk and honey, connecting to the fulfillment of that promise in Deuteronomy 27:3.

Psalm 119:11
Highlights the importance of internalizing God's word, which complements the physical act of inscribing the law on stones.

Hebrews 8:10
Discusses the new covenant where God's laws are written on hearts, drawing a spiritual parallel to the physical inscription of the law in Deuteronomy.