Deuteronomy 3:28

But commission Joshua, encourage him, and strengthen him, for he will cross over ahead of the people and enable them to inherit the land that you will see."

Study Bible

But commission Joshua
Moses is instructed to appoint Joshua as his successor. This commissioning is significant as it marks the transition of leadership from Moses to Joshua. Joshua, who has been Moses' aide, is chosen due to his faithfulness and military prowess, as seen in the battle against the Amalekites (Exodus 17:9-14). This act of commissioning is a formal and public acknowledgment of Joshua's new role, ensuring the people recognize his authority.

encourage him
Joshua is to be encouraged because he faces the daunting task of leading the Israelites into the Promised Land. This encouragement is vital as it provides Joshua with the moral and spiritual support needed to undertake such a significant responsibility. The encouragement also reflects God's assurance of His presence with Joshua, as later reiterated in Joshua 1:9.

and strengthen him
Strengthening Joshua involves preparing him for the challenges ahead, both physically and spiritually. This strengthening is not just about personal resolve but also about reliance on God's power and promises. The call to strengthen Joshua echoes the biblical theme of God empowering His chosen leaders, as seen with figures like Gideon (Judges 6:14) and David (1 Samuel 30:6).

for he will cross over ahead of the people
Joshua is to lead the Israelites across the Jordan River into Canaan. This crossing is symbolic of entering into God's promises and is reminiscent of the Exodus from Egypt. Joshua's leadership in crossing over signifies a new chapter for the Israelites, moving from wandering to possessing the land. This act prefigures Christ leading believers into the promises of God.

and enable them to inherit the land
Joshua's role is to facilitate the Israelites' inheritance of the Promised Land, fulfilling the covenant God made with Abraham (Genesis 15:18-21). This inheritance is both a physical possession and a spiritual fulfillment of God's promises. The land represents God's faithfulness and the realization of His promises, paralleling the spiritual inheritance believers receive through Christ (Ephesians 1:11).

that you will see
Moses is allowed to see the Promised Land from a distance but not enter it, due to his disobedience at Meribah (Numbers 20:12). This sight serves as a reminder of God's holiness and the consequences of disobedience. It also highlights the transition from the Mosaic covenant to the leadership under Joshua, pointing to the ultimate fulfillment in Jesus, who leads His people into the eternal Promised Land.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who is instructed by God to commission Joshua as his successor.

2. Joshua
The appointed successor of Moses, tasked with leading the Israelites into the Promised Land.

3. The Israelites
The people of God, who are on the brink of entering the Promised Land after their exodus from Egypt.

4. The Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which God promised to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

5. Mount Nebo
The place where Moses views the Promised Land before his death, as mentioned in the broader context of Deuteronomy.

Teaching Points

Leadership Transition
God’s plan includes the preparation and commissioning of new leaders. Just as Moses was instructed to prepare Joshua, we should be intentional in mentoring and preparing future leaders in our communities and churches.

Encouragement and Strengthening
Encouragement is a vital part of leadership. We are called to support and uplift those who are stepping into new roles, ensuring they feel equipped and confident in their God-given tasks.

Faith in God’s Promises
Joshua’s leadership was rooted in the promise of God. We, too, should anchor our actions and decisions in the promises found in Scripture, trusting in God’s faithfulness.

Obedience to God’s Commands
Moses’ obedience in commissioning Joshua highlights the importance of following God’s instructions, even when it means passing the baton to someone else.

Vision for the Future
Just as Moses was given a vision of the Promised Land, leaders should seek God’s vision for the future, guiding their people with hope and purpose.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the commissioning of Joshua by Moses reflect the importance of mentorship and leadership development in the church today?

2. In what ways can we encourage and strengthen those who are stepping into new roles or challenges in our communities?

3. How can we apply the principle of trusting in God’s promises to our personal lives and decision-making processes?

4. What are some practical ways we can ensure a smooth transition of leadership within our own spheres of influence?

5. How does the example of Moses and Joshua challenge us to be obedient to God’s commands, even when it involves personal sacrifice or change?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 1:1-9
This passage details God's commissioning of Joshua, echoing the encouragement and strengthening Moses was instructed to provide.

Numbers 27:18-23
This passage describes the formal commissioning of Joshua by Moses, as commanded by God.

Hebrews 13:5-6
These verses remind believers of God's promise to never leave nor forsake them, similar to the encouragement given to Joshua.

1 Timothy 4:12
Paul’s encouragement to Timothy to lead despite his youth parallels the encouragement given to Joshua as a new leader.