Deuteronomy 9:29

But they are Your people, Your inheritance, whom You brought out by Your great power and outstretched arm."

Study Bible

But they are Your people
This phrase emphasizes the covenant relationship between God and the Israelites. The concept of being "God's people" is rooted in the Abrahamic covenant (Genesis 12:1-3), where God promises to make Abraham's descendants a great nation. This identity is central to Israel's understanding of themselves and their unique role in God's plan. The idea of being God's chosen people is reiterated throughout the Old Testament, including in Exodus 19:5-6, where God calls Israel a "kingdom of priests and a holy nation."

Your inheritance
The term "inheritance" signifies a special possession or heritage. In the context of Israel, it refers to the land promised to Abraham and his descendants (Genesis 15:18-21). This inheritance is not just physical land but also a spiritual legacy, as seen in Deuteronomy 4:20, where God describes Israel as His inheritance. The concept of inheritance also points forward to the New Testament, where believers in Christ are described as God's inheritance (Ephesians 1:18).

whom You brought out
This phrase recalls the Exodus, the defining moment of deliverance for Israel. The Exodus is a central theme in the Old Testament, symbolizing God's power and faithfulness. It is frequently referenced as a reminder of God's ability to save and His commitment to His promises (Exodus 20:2). The deliverance from Egypt is also a type of Christ's redemptive work, as Jesus leads believers out of bondage to sin (Luke 9:31, where the term "departure" is literally "exodus").

by Your great power
The "great power" of God is demonstrated through the miraculous events of the Exodus, including the plagues, the parting of the Red Sea, and the provision in the wilderness. These acts reveal God's sovereignty over creation and His ability to intervene in human history. The power of God is a recurring theme in Scripture, underscoring His omnipotence and the assurance that nothing is too difficult for Him (Jeremiah 32:17).

and outstretched arm.
The "outstretched arm" is a metaphor for God's active involvement and strength in delivering His people. This imagery is used throughout the Old Testament to describe God's mighty acts (Exodus 6:6, Psalm 136:12). It conveys the idea of God reaching down to rescue and protect His people. In the New Testament, this concept is fulfilled in Jesus Christ, whose sacrificial death and resurrection are the ultimate demonstration of God's saving power (Romans 5:6-8).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, who is interceding on behalf of the people before God. He reminds God of His covenant and the special relationship with Israel.

2. Israelites
The people of God, referred to as His inheritance. They are the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, whom God delivered from Egypt.

3. God
The sovereign Lord who chose Israel as His people and delivered them from slavery in Egypt with His mighty power.

4. Egypt
The place of bondage from which God delivered the Israelites, symbolizing God's power and faithfulness.

5. The Exodus
The event of God delivering the Israelites from Egyptian slavery, demonstrating His power and faithfulness to His promises.

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness to His People
God remains faithful to His covenant promises, even when His people are unfaithful. This should encourage believers to trust in God's steadfast love and commitment.

The Power of Intercession
Moses' intercession for Israel highlights the importance of standing in the gap for others in prayer. Believers are called to pray for one another, trusting in God's mercy.

Identity as God's Inheritance
Just as Israel was God's inheritance, believers today are God's treasured possession. This identity should shape how we live and relate to God and others.

Remembering God's Mighty Acts
Reflecting on God's past deliverance and power strengthens our faith and trust in Him for present and future challenges.

Living as God's People
Being God's people comes with the responsibility to live according to His ways, reflecting His character to the world.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Moses' intercession for Israel in Deuteronomy 9:29 inspire you to pray for others in your life?

2. In what ways can remembering God's past faithfulness help you face current challenges?

3. How does understanding your identity as God's inheritance influence your daily life and decisions?

4. What are some practical ways you can live out your identity as part of God's chosen people, as described in 1 Peter 2:9?

5. How can the account of the Exodus and God's deliverance of Israel encourage you in your personal walk with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 32-34
These chapters provide the context of Moses interceding for Israel after the golden calf incident, similar to his plea in Deuteronomy 9.

Isaiah 63:11-14
Reflects on God's past deliverance of Israel, emphasizing His power and the guidance of His Spirit.

1 Peter 2:9
Describes believers as a chosen people and a royal priesthood, echoing the idea of being God's special possession.

Psalm 136
Celebrates God's enduring love and mighty acts, including the deliverance from Egypt.