Deuteronomy 31:7 – “Then Moses summoned Joshua and said to him in the presence of all Israel, ‘Be strong and courageous, for you must go with this people into the land that the Lord swore to their ancestors to give them, and you must divide it among them as their inheritance.’”

Extended Explanation of the Verse

Deuteronomy 31:7 captures a significant moment in Israel’s history as Moses publicly commissions Joshua to take over leadership. Moses, knowing his time as leader is coming to an end, gathers all of Israel and charges Joshua with the responsibility of leading the people into the Promised Land. This public commissioning not only validates Joshua’s leadership in front of the people but also emphasizes the continuity of God’s promises.

Moses commands Joshua to “be strong and courageous,” highlighting the daunting task ahead. Joshua is not just taking over as a leader; he is taking on the mantle of fulfilling a promise made generations ago. His mission is to lead the people into Canaan, a land filled with challenges, battles, and uncertainties. Yet, Moses reassures Joshua that his strength and courage will not come from his abilities but from God’s promise and presence. Joshua’s role is also to ensure that the land is divided among the tribes of Israel, fulfilling God’s promise of inheritance to their ancestors.

Historical Context

This verse is set at a pivotal time when the Israelites are on the verge of entering the Promised Land after forty years of wandering in the wilderness. Moses, their leader since the exodus from Egypt, is preparing for his departure. Because of his disobedience at Meribah, where he struck the rock instead of speaking to it as God commanded, Moses is not allowed to enter the land (Numbers 20:12).

Joshua, who has been Moses’ assistant and a faithful spy during their exploration of Canaan, is chosen as Moses’ successor. This moment is not just a change in leadership; it’s the fulfillment of a long-awaited promise. The public nature of this commissioning before all Israel signifies God’s endorsement of Joshua and serves as a clear message that God’s plan continues, even as leaders change.

Theological Implications

Theologically, Deuteronomy 31:7 highlights God’s faithfulness and the importance of obedient leadership. God’s promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob were about to be fulfilled, and Joshua was the chosen leader to see it through. This verse underscores that God’s promises are not dependent on any one person but are carried forward through faithful leadership and obedience.

Joshua’s charge to be strong and courageous is not a call to rely on personal strength but a call to trust in God’s power and guidance. It reflects a principle that applies to all believers: God equips those He calls. Joshua’s task of dividing the land among the Israelites as their inheritance reflects the fulfillment of God’s covenant promises, showing that God’s word always comes to pass.

Literary Analysis

This verse is rich in its public and personal elements. Moses’ charge to Joshua happens “in the presence of all Israel,” making it a public declaration of leadership transition. The phrase “be strong and courageous” serves as both an encouragement and a command, setting the tone for Joshua’s leadership.

Moses’ words are both a blessing and a challenge. By instructing Joshua to lead the people and divide the land, Moses is passing on the weight of a promise that began centuries earlier. The public nature of this commissioning ensures that all of Israel understands that Joshua’s leadership is divinely appointed, and it prepares the people to follow him with confidence.

Relevant Biblical Cross-References

• Joshua 1:6-7 – God reiterates the same command to Joshua to be strong and courageous, emphasizing the continuity of His promise and leadership.
• Numbers 27:18-23 – God instructs Moses to lay hands on Joshua, symbolizing the transfer of leadership and authority before the congregation.
• 1 Chronicles 28:20 – David’s charge to Solomon mirrors Moses’ words to Joshua, reinforcing the theme of courage and strength in fulfilling God’s mission.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For today’s Christians, Deuteronomy 31:7 is a reminder that God’s work continues through faithful leadership, even when seasons change. It teaches us that God’s promises are sure, and He equips those He calls to lead. Joshua’s charge to be strong and courageous applies to all believers who face daunting tasks and challenges.

This verse encourages Christians to step into the roles God has given them with confidence, not because of their own strength but because of God’s presence and faithfulness. Whether leading in our families, churches, workplaces, or personal lives, we are called to trust God’s promises and act courageously, knowing He goes before us.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

Deuteronomy 31:7 reflects God’s love in His preparation and provision for His people. God did not leave Israel without a leader; He carefully chose Joshua, trained under Moses, and equipped him for the task ahead. God’s loving guidance is evident in how He ensures that His promises are fulfilled through those He appoints.

God’s love is seen in His encouragement to Joshua to be strong and courageous, reminding him that God’s presence would be with him. This loving reassurance shows that God does not just call people to difficult tasks without support; He promises to be with them, providing the strength and courage needed for the journey.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

This verse connects to Jesus Christ as the ultimate leader who fulfills God’s promises. Just as Joshua was called to lead the people into the Promised Land, Jesus leads believers into the ultimate inheritance of eternal life. Hebrews 4:8-9 speaks of a greater rest that Joshua could not provide, pointing to the rest found in Christ.

Jesus also calls His followers to be strong and courageous, promising His presence with them always (Matthew 28:20). As the true and better leader, Jesus does what Moses and Joshua could not—He perfectly fulfills God’s law and secures an eternal inheritance for His people. Through Christ, God’s promise to never leave or forsake His people finds its ultimate fulfillment.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. What challenges in your life require you to be strong and courageous?
2. How can you rely on God’s promises when facing daunting tasks or changes in leadership?
3. In what ways can you encourage others, as Moses encouraged Joshua, to trust God’s presence and guidance?
4. How does understanding God’s faithfulness to His promises help you in your daily walk with Christ?
5. How can you follow Jesus’ example of leadership in your own life, trusting in God’s strength rather than your own?

Deuteronomy 31:7 encourages us to face life’s challenges with faith, knowing that God’s presence and promises are unchanging. It reminds us that no matter the task or the transition, God equips those He calls, and His love and guidance remain with us always.