Deuteronomy 3:28 – “But commission Joshua, and encourage and strengthen him, for he will lead this people across and will cause them to inherit the land that you will see.”

Extended Explanation of the Verse

In Deuteronomy 3:28, God instructs Moses to encourage and strengthen Joshua, who will take over the leadership of the Israelites and lead them into the Promised Land. Moses, who had led the people faithfully for forty years, was nearing the end of his journey and was not permitted by God to enter the land. Instead, the responsibility was being passed on to Joshua, who would guide the people in their next chapter. God’s command to Moses to support Joshua highlights the importance of passing the baton to the next leader with encouragement and affirmation. Moses’ role was to prepare Joshua for the immense task ahead, ensuring that he would be ready to lead with confidence and strength.

Historical Context

This verse is set during the final days of Moses’ life as he prepares the Israelites to enter the Promised Land. God had chosen Joshua, a faithful servant who had been by Moses’ side for many years, to lead the people in conquering and settling the land of Canaan. Joshua had already proven himself as a capable leader, having spied out the land and brought back a faithful report (Numbers 14:6-9). As Moses’ successor, Joshua was tasked with completing what Moses had begun. God’s instruction to Moses to encourage and strengthen Joshua underscores the significance of this leadership transition and the need for continuity in God’s plan for His people.

Theological Implications

Theologically, Deuteronomy 3:28 highlights the importance of mentorship, encouragement, and the passing on of leadership within God’s community. God’s command to Moses to encourage Joshua shows that God cares deeply about how leadership transitions are handled. This verse teaches us that God’s work continues from generation to generation, often through the faithful passing on of responsibility and wisdom. It also emphasizes the need for leaders to build up those who will come after them, ensuring that God’s mission is carried forward with strength and courage. The act of commissioning and encouraging new leaders reflects God’s ongoing work through His people, using each person’s unique gifts and calling.

Literary Analysis

The verse uses direct language, emphasizing action with words like “commission,” “encourage,” and “strengthen.” This directive approach underscores the urgency and importance of Moses’ role in preparing Joshua. The phrase “for he will lead this people across” reinforces Joshua’s destiny and the weight of the responsibility he was about to take on. By structuring the verse as a clear command, the narrative highlights the necessity of leadership preparation and the supportive role that seasoned leaders play in setting up their successors for success.

Relevant Biblical Cross-References

1. Numbers 27:18-23 – God instructs Moses to lay his hands on Joshua, publicly affirming him as the new leader of Israel, highlighting the importance of this transition.
2. Joshua 1:6-9 – God personally encourages Joshua, telling him to be strong and courageous, reinforcing the support Moses was commanded to give.
3. 2 Timothy 2:2 – “And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.” This verse reflects the principle of passing on leadership and responsibility within the community of faith.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For today’s Christian, Deuteronomy 3:28 serves as a reminder of the importance of encouraging and equipping others, especially those stepping into new roles of leadership or responsibility. It teaches us that God’s work is not just about individual achievement but about building up the next generation to continue the mission. This verse challenges us to actively support and mentor those who will come after us, recognizing that our role includes preparing others for their own calling. It also encourages believers to receive support and guidance from those who have gone before them, knowing that God uses these relationships to strengthen His people.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

This verse reflects God’s love in the way He cares for His people by ensuring strong leadership and continuity. God’s instruction to Moses to encourage and strengthen Joshua shows that God does not leave His people without guidance; He prepares and appoints leaders to carry on His work. God’s love is demonstrated through His care in transitioning leadership smoothly, ensuring that His people are led well. This verse also shows God’s personal investment in His leaders, offering them not just a task but the support and encouragement needed to succeed. God’s love is practical, nurturing, and always looking ahead to the needs of His people.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Deuteronomy 3:28 connects to Jesus Christ through the theme of passing on the mission and preparing future leaders. Just as Moses prepared Joshua, Jesus prepared His disciples to carry on His work after His ascension. In John 14:12, Jesus tells His followers that they will do even greater works, equipping them through the Holy Spirit. Before His ascension, Jesus commissioned His disciples in Matthew 28:19-20, saying, “Go and make disciples of all nations.” This command parallels the commissioning of Joshua, as Jesus empowered His followers to continue His mission. The preparation, encouragement, and empowerment seen in Moses’ relationship with Joshua mirror how Jesus equips us to carry on His work.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. How does Moses’ role in encouraging and strengthening Joshua challenge you to support and build up others in your community?
2. In what ways can you prepare the next generation to take on responsibilities and leadership roles in your church, family, or workplace?
3. How does this verse encourage you to seek mentorship and guidance from those who have more experience in faith and life?
4. What does this passage teach you about God’s care for His people through the provision of strong, well-prepared leaders?
5. How does Jesus’ commissioning of His disciples inspire you to continue His work and support others in their spiritual journey?

Reflecting on these questions helps connect the lessons of Deuteronomy 3:28 to your personal walk, encouraging you to actively support others, receive encouragement yourself, and participate in God’s ongoing work through a spirit of mentorship and community.