Deuteronomy 3:20

until the LORD gives rest to your brothers as He has to you, and they too have taken possession of the land that the LORD your God is giving them across the Jordan. Then each of you may return to the possession I have given you."

Study Bible

until the LORD gives rest to your brothers as He has to you,
This phrase highlights the concept of "rest" as a divine promise, which is a recurring theme in the Old Testament. The "rest" refers to the cessation of warfare and the establishment of peace and security in the Promised Land. This promise of rest is first seen in Genesis 2:2-3, where God rests on the seventh day, setting a pattern for His people. The Israelites' rest is contingent upon God's provision and their obedience. The idea of rest is further developed in the New Testament, where it is fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who offers spiritual rest to believers (Matthew 11:28-30, Hebrews 4:1-11).

and they too have taken possession of the land
The possession of the land is a central theme in Deuteronomy and the Pentateuch. It signifies the fulfillment of God's covenant with Abraham (Genesis 15:18-21). The land is not just a physical territory but a place where God's people can live under His rule and blessing. The act of taking possession involves both divine intervention and human responsibility. The Israelites are called to trust in God's promises and act in faith, as seen in the conquest narratives in the Book of Joshua.

that the LORD your God is giving them across the Jordan.
The Jordan River serves as a significant geographical and symbolic boundary. Crossing the Jordan represents a transition from the wilderness wanderings to the inheritance of the Promised Land. This crossing is a pivotal moment in Israel's history, marking the fulfillment of God's promises and the beginning of a new chapter. The phrase underscores God's active role in giving the land, emphasizing His sovereignty and faithfulness. The crossing of the Jordan is also a type of baptism, symbolizing death to the old life and entry into a new life, as seen in the New Testament (Romans 6:3-4).

Then each of you may return to the possession I have given you.”
This phrase indicates a return to individual inheritance after the collective mission is accomplished. It reflects the tribal allotments described in the Book of Joshua, where each tribe receives a specific portion of the land. The return to one's possession signifies the completion of God's promise and the establishment of a settled life in the land. This concept of inheritance is echoed in the New Testament, where believers are described as heirs with Christ, receiving an eternal inheritance (Romans 8:17, Ephesians 1:11). The phrase also highlights the importance of community and mutual support among God's people, as they are called to ensure that all tribes receive their inheritance before returning to their own.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. The Israelites
The people of God who are preparing to enter the Promised Land after their exodus from Egypt and years of wandering in the wilderness.

3. The Promised Land
The land across the Jordan River that God promised to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

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

5. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel who promises rest and possession of the land.

Teaching Points

Unity and Shared Responsibility
The Israelites were to support one another until all had received their inheritance. This teaches us the importance of community and helping others achieve their God-given purposes.

God's Faithfulness
The promise of rest and possession of the land highlights God's faithfulness to His promises. We can trust God to fulfill His promises in our lives as well.

Spiritual Rest
The concept of rest in this passage points to a deeper spiritual rest found in Christ. Believers are called to enter into this rest through faith and obedience.

Obedience and Patience
The Israelites had to wait and obey God's timing before receiving their full inheritance. This teaches us the value of patience and obedience in our walk with God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the promise of rest in Deuteronomy 3:20 relate to the spiritual rest mentioned in the New Testament, and how can we apply this to our lives today?

2. In what ways can we support and encourage our fellow believers in their spiritual journey, similar to how the Israelites were to support each other?

3. Reflect on a time when you had to wait for God's promises to be fulfilled. What did you learn about patience and trust during that period?

4. How does understanding God's faithfulness in the past help us trust Him with our future?

5. What practical steps can we take to ensure we are living in obedience to God's commands while waiting for His promises to be fulfilled?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 1:13-15
This passage reiterates the promise of rest and possession of the land, emphasizing the unity and shared mission of the tribes of Israel.

Hebrews 4:8-10
Discusses the concept of rest, drawing a parallel between the rest promised to the Israelites and the spiritual rest available through faith in Christ.

Numbers 32:20-22
Details the agreement with the tribes of Reuben and Gad to help their fellow Israelites secure the land before settling in their own inheritance.