Deuteronomy 31:2

he said to them, "I am now a hundred and twenty years old; I am no longer able to come and go, and the LORD has said to me, 'You shall not cross the Jordan.'

Study Bible

he said to them
Moses is addressing the Israelites, his chosen people, as he prepares to pass on leadership to Joshua. This moment is significant as it marks the transition of leadership and the continuation of God's covenant with Israel. Moses' role as a prophet and leader is emphasized here, as he communicates God's will to the people.

I am now a hundred and twenty years old
Moses' age is symbolic of a full and complete life, as 120 years is often seen as the ideal lifespan in biblical terms. His life can be divided into three 40-year periods: 40 years in Egypt, 40 years in Midian, and 40 years leading Israel. This structure underscores the completeness of his mission and the divine orchestration of his life.

I am no longer able to come and go
This phrase indicates Moses' physical limitations due to his age, highlighting the natural human frailty even in a great leader. It also signifies the end of his active leadership role. This transition is necessary for the Israelites to move forward into the Promised Land under new leadership.

and the LORD has said to me
This emphasizes the divine authority behind Moses' words. It is not merely his decision to step down, but a directive from God. This underscores the theme of obedience to God's will, which is central to the narrative of Deuteronomy.

‘You shall not cross the Jordan.’
This statement is a direct reference to God's earlier decree in Numbers 20:12, where Moses was told he would not enter the Promised Land due to his disobedience at Meribah. The Jordan River represents a boundary between the wilderness and the Promised Land, symbolizing a transition from the old to the new. Moses' inability to cross is a reminder of the consequences of disobedience, but also points to the need for a new leader, Joshua, who is a type of Christ, leading God's people into their inheritance.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The central figure in this verse, Moses is the leader of the Israelites who has guided them out of Egypt and through the wilderness. At this point, he is 120 years old and acknowledges his limitations.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel who has guided Moses and the Israelites. He has decreed that Moses will not enter the Promised Land.

3. The Jordan River
A significant geographical boundary that the Israelites must cross to enter the Promised Land. It symbolizes the transition from the wilderness to the fulfillment of God's promise.

4. The Promised Land
The land of Canaan, promised by God to Abraham and his descendants. It represents the fulfillment of God's covenant promises.

5. Israelites
The people of God, whom Moses has led for 40 years. They are on the brink of entering the Promised Land.

Teaching Points

Acknowledging Human Limitations
Moses' admission of his age and inability to lead further is a reminder of the importance of recognizing our human limitations and relying on God's strength.

Obedience to God's Will
Despite his desire to enter the Promised Land, Moses submits to God's will, teaching us the importance of obedience even when it means personal sacrifice.

Leadership Transition
Moses' preparation for Joshua to lead the Israelites highlights the importance of preparing and empowering the next generation of leaders.

Faith in God's Promises
Moses' life exemplifies faith in God's promises, even when he does not see their fulfillment in his lifetime, encouraging us to trust in God's timing and plan.

Legacy of Faith
Moses' legacy is not diminished by his inability to enter the Promised Land; rather, it is defined by his faithfulness and obedience, reminding us that our legacy is built on faithfulness to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Moses' acknowledgment of his age and limitations challenge us to consider our own limitations and reliance on God?

2. In what ways can we demonstrate obedience to God's will, even when it conflicts with our personal desires?

3. How can we prepare and empower the next generation of leaders in our communities and churches, as Moses did with Joshua?

4. What are some promises of God that we are called to trust in, even if we do not see their fulfillment in our lifetime?

5. How can we build a legacy of faithfulness like Moses, focusing on obedience and trust in God rather than personal achievements?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 20:12
This passage explains why Moses is not allowed to enter the Promised Land, due to his disobedience at the waters of Meribah.

Joshua 1:1-2
After Moses' death, Joshua is commissioned to lead the Israelites across the Jordan, showing the continuation of God's plan.

Psalm 90:10
Reflects on the brevity of life, which is relevant to Moses' acknowledgment of his age and limitations.

Hebrews 11:24-29
Highlights Moses' faith and leadership, despite not entering the Promised Land, emphasizing his eternal perspective.