Deuteronomy 31:13

Then their children who do not know the law will listen and learn to fear the LORD your God, as long as you live in the land that you are crossing the Jordan to possess."

Study Bible

Then their children who do not know the law
This phrase highlights the importance of passing down the knowledge of God's commandments to the next generation. In the context of ancient Israel, the law was central to the covenant relationship between God and His people. The children, who had not experienced the giving of the law at Sinai, needed to be taught its precepts. This reflects the broader biblical theme of generational teaching, as seen in passages like Deuteronomy 6:6-7, where parents are instructed to diligently teach their children. It underscores the responsibility of the community to ensure that the knowledge of God’s law is not lost.

will listen and learn to fear the LORD your God
Listening and learning are active processes that require engagement and commitment. The fear of the LORD is a recurring theme in the Bible, signifying reverence, awe, and obedience to God. Proverbs 9:10 states, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom," indicating that understanding and respecting God's authority is foundational to a righteous life. This fear is not about terror but about recognizing God's holiness and sovereignty, leading to a life of obedience and worship.

as long as you live in the land
The land of Canaan was a significant part of God's promise to Abraham and his descendants (Genesis 12:7). Living in the land was contingent upon Israel's faithfulness to God's covenant. The land was not just a physical territory but a place where Israel was to live out its identity as God's chosen people. The conditional nature of this promise is echoed in later warnings and prophecies, such as those found in Deuteronomy 28, where blessings and curses are tied to obedience and disobedience.

that you are crossing the Jordan to possess.
Crossing the Jordan River was a pivotal moment for the Israelites, marking the transition from their wilderness wanderings to entering the Promised Land. This event is detailed in Joshua 3-4, where the miraculous crossing signifies God's faithfulness and power. The possession of the land was both a fulfillment of God's promise and a call to faithfulness. The Jordan River itself holds symbolic significance, representing a boundary between the old life and the new, much like the crossing of the Red Sea. This typology can be seen as a foreshadowing of the believer's journey from the bondage of sin to the freedom found in Christ.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who is delivering his final instructions before they enter the Promised Land.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God, preparing to enter the land promised to their ancestors.

3. Children
The next generation of Israelites who are to be taught the law.

4. The LORD (Yahweh)
The God of Israel, whom the Israelites are to fear and obey.

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

Teaching Points

The Importance of Teaching the Next Generation
The verse underscores the responsibility of parents and leaders to ensure that children understand and respect God's laws.

Fear of the LORD as a Foundation
Instilling a reverent fear of the LORD is crucial for a life of obedience and wisdom. This fear is not about being afraid but having a deep respect and awe for God.

Living in the Promised Land
The Israelites' success in the Promised Land is tied to their adherence to God's laws. This principle applies to Christians today as they navigate their spiritual journey.

The Role of Community in Spiritual Education
The community plays a vital role in teaching and reinforcing God's laws, highlighting the importance of fellowship and collective worship.

Generational Faithfulness
Faithfulness to God is not just an individual pursuit but a communal and generational one, ensuring that the knowledge of God is passed down.

Bible Study Questions

1. How can we effectively teach the fear of the LORD to the next generation in today's context?

2. What are some practical ways to incorporate the teaching of God's laws into daily family life?

3. How does the concept of fearing the LORD influence our decision-making and lifestyle choices?

4. In what ways can the church community support parents in the spiritual education of their children?

5. How can we ensure that our faith and knowledge of God are passed down to future generations, both within our families and our communities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 6:6-7
Emphasizes the importance of teaching God's commandments to children, reinforcing the idea of generational faithfulness.

Proverbs 9:10
Highlights that the fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, connecting to the purpose of learning the law.

Joshua 4:21-24
Describes the importance of remembering God's acts and teaching them to future generations.

Psalm 78:5-7
Speaks about the responsibility to teach the next generation about God's laws and deeds.

Ephesians 6:4
Encourages parents to bring up their children in the discipline and instruction of the Lord, echoing the Old Testament command.