Deuteronomy 3:18

At that time I commanded you: "The LORD your God has given you this land to possess. All your men of valor are to cross over, armed for battle, ahead of your brothers, the Israelites.

Study Bible

At that time I commanded you:
This phrase refers to a specific moment in Israel's history when Moses was giving instructions to the Israelites. It highlights Moses' role as a leader and prophet, conveying God's commands to the people. This command is part of Moses' final speeches in Deuteronomy, where he reiterates the law and God's promises before the Israelites enter the Promised Land.

The LORD your God has given you this land to possess:
This statement emphasizes God's sovereignty and faithfulness in fulfilling His promise to the patriarchs—Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob—regarding the land of Canaan. It underscores the divine gift of the land, not as a result of Israel's merit but as a fulfillment of God's covenant. This promise is a recurring theme throughout the Pentateuch, reinforcing the idea of divine providence and grace.

All your men of valor are to cross over, armed for battle:
This command involves the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh, who had requested to settle on the east side of the Jordan River. Despite their settlement, they were required to assist their fellow Israelites in conquering the land west of the Jordan. The phrase "men of valor" indicates the need for courage and readiness in fulfilling God's commands. This reflects the communal responsibility and unity among the tribes, as well as the importance of obedience and trust in God's plan.

Ahead of your brothers, the Israelites:
This instruction highlights the leadership role that the eastern tribes were to take in the conquest of Canaan. It signifies the importance of solidarity and support among the tribes, ensuring that all of Israel would work together to achieve the common goal of possessing the land. This unity is a precursor to the New Testament teaching of the body of Christ, where each member supports and aids the others (1 Corinthians 12:12-27). The phrase also foreshadows the spiritual battles believers face, where unity and mutual support are crucial.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who is recounting God's commands to the people as they prepare to enter the Promised Land.

2. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, who are on the brink of entering the land promised to their forefathers.

3. The Transjordan Tribes
Specifically, the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh, who were given land on the east side of the Jordan River.

4. The Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which God promised to the descendants of Abraham, a land flowing with milk and honey.

5. Men of Valor
The warriors among the Israelites who are tasked with leading the charge into the Promised Land.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Commands
The importance of following God's instructions as given through His appointed leaders.

Unity and Support Among Believers
The call for the Transjordan tribes to support their fellow Israelites highlights the need for unity and mutual support within the body of Christ.

Faithfulness to Commitments
The tribes' commitment to fight alongside their brothers serves as a reminder of the importance of keeping our promises, especially those made before God.

Courage in Spiritual Battles
The "men of valor" symbolize the courage required to face spiritual battles, trusting in God's provision and promises.

Inheritance and Responsibility
The balance between receiving God's blessings and fulfilling our responsibilities as His people.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the command in Deuteronomy 3:18 reflect the importance of unity among God's people, and how can we apply this principle in our church communities today?

2. In what ways does the commitment of the Transjordan tribes to help their fellow Israelites serve as a model for our own commitments to others?

3. How can the concept of "men of valor" inspire us to face our own spiritual battles with courage and faith?

4. What parallels can we draw between the Israelites entering the Promised Land and the rest promised to believers in Hebrews 4:8-11?

5. How does the obedience of the Israelites in this passage challenge us to examine our own obedience to God's commands in our daily lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 1:12-15
This passage reiterates the command given in Deuteronomy 3:18, where Joshua reminds the Transjordan tribes of their commitment to help their fellow Israelites.

Numbers 32
This chapter provides the background for the agreement between Moses and the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh regarding their inheritance and responsibilities.

Hebrews 4:8-11
This New Testament passage reflects on the rest that God promised His people, drawing a parallel to the rest found in Christ, which is foreshadowed by the Israelites entering the Promised Land.