Deuteronomy 5:31 – “But you stay here with me so that I may give you all the commands, decrees and laws you are to teach them to follow in the land I am giving them to possess.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
Deuteronomy 5:31 is God’s instruction to Moses after the Israelites requested that Moses be their mediator between them and God. While the people were sent back to their tents due to their fear of directly encountering God’s presence, God commands Moses to stay with Him to receive the full set of instructions, laws, and decrees. Moses’ role was to learn from God directly and then teach the people so they could follow God’s ways in the Promised Land.
This verse emphasizes the critical role of Moses as the leader and mediator, who not only received God’s commands but was responsible for teaching them to the people. God’s choice to keep Moses close shows His trust in Moses and highlights the importance of passing down God’s instructions faithfully. The purpose of these commands was not just for the immediate context but to guide the Israelites as they entered and settled in the land God had promised them.
Historical Context
The historical context of this verse is the period when the Israelites were camped at Mount Sinai after their exodus from Egypt. God had delivered them from slavery and was now establishing a covenant with them as His chosen people. At Mount Sinai, the Israelites experienced God’s presence in a powerful and terrifying way, and they realized their need for a mediator. Moses was appointed as that mediator, responsible for receiving and relaying God’s commands to the people.
This moment was foundational for the Israelites as they were preparing to enter the Promised Land. They needed guidance on how to live as a nation under God’s rule, distinct from the surrounding nations. The laws and decrees given to Moses were meant to shape their identity as God’s people, teaching them how to live in a way that honored God and reflected His character.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Deuteronomy 5:31 highlights the importance of God’s Word being received and taught accurately. God’s commands were not arbitrary rules but divinely given instructions meant to lead His people into a flourishing life. Moses’ role as the mediator underscores the need for faithful transmission of God’s Word from one generation to the next. God’s instructions to Moses show that leadership in God’s kingdom is about faithfully communicating His truth.
This verse also reflects God’s desire for His people to be taught His ways. God did not leave the Israelites to figure things out on their own; He provided clear guidance through His laws and decrees. The emphasis on teaching shows that understanding and following God’s commands requires intentional instruction and learning. It’s a reminder that God’s Word is central to the life and direction of His people.
Literary Analysis
Deuteronomy 5:31 is structured as a direct command from God to Moses, emphasizing a close, personal interaction between God and His chosen leader. The phrase “stay here with me” highlights the intimacy and trust God placed in Moses, setting him apart from the rest of the people. This language reflects the special relationship Moses had with God, where he was not only a leader but a friend of God who was entrusted with His Word.
The command to teach the people “to follow” underscores the purpose of the laws and decrees. It wasn’t enough for the people to hear God’s commands; they were meant to live them out. The mention of the land God was giving them ties the commands to the broader narrative of God’s promises, showing that obedience to God’s Word was directly linked to receiving His blessings.
Biblical Cross-References
- Exodus 24:12 – God calls Moses to come up the mountain to receive the tablets of stone with the law and commandments, showing Moses’ unique role in receiving God’s Word.
- Deuteronomy 4:1-2 – Emphasizes the importance of following God’s decrees and laws exactly as given, without adding or subtracting from them.
- Joshua 1:8 – God instructs Joshua to meditate on the Book of the Law day and night, reinforcing the need for constant teaching and adherence to God’s Word.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, Deuteronomy 5:31 serves as a reminder of the importance of receiving, teaching, and following God’s Word. Just as Moses was instructed to learn directly from God and then teach the people, we are called to be students of God’s Word, learning it for ourselves and sharing it with others. This verse emphasizes that God’s Word is central to how we live and that it should be faithfully taught and followed.
This passage also speaks to the value of having leaders, pastors, and teachers who dedicate themselves to studying God’s Word and sharing it accurately. Just as Moses stayed close to God to receive His commands, those who teach today are called to spend time in God’s presence, seeking His guidance and wisdom. It’s a call for all Christians to respect and value sound teaching and to strive to live according to God’s instructions.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Deuteronomy 5:31 reflects God’s love through His desire to guide His people clearly and directly. God didn’t leave His people in confusion or guesswork; He provided Moses with specific commands, decrees, and laws to teach the Israelites. God’s instructions were designed to lead His people into a life that honored Him and brought them peace and prosperity in the land He was giving them.
God’s love is evident in His attention to detail and His commitment to His people’s well-being. By instructing Moses to teach the people, God was ensuring that His laws would be accessible and understandable, demonstrating His desire for a relationship based on knowledge, understanding, and obedience. God’s love is not distant or impersonal; it is present in every command meant to guide and protect His people.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse connects to Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate teacher and mediator of God’s Word. While Moses was the mediator of the old covenant, Jesus brings us into the new covenant, teaching us not only the laws of God but also the heart behind them. Jesus often taught with the phrase, “You have heard that it was said… but I tell you…” (Matthew 5:21-22), showing that He came to fulfill the law and reveal its full meaning.
Jesus is described as the Word made flesh (John 1:14), embodying God’s commands and decrees perfectly. He didn’t just teach God’s Word; He lived it. Through Jesus, we receive the fullness of God’s revelation, and He calls us to be His disciples, learning from Him and teaching others. Just as Moses was commanded to teach the Israelites, Jesus commissions His followers to “go and make disciples of all nations, teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you” (Matthew 28:19-20).
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does this verse encourage you to prioritize learning and following God’s Word in your daily life?
- In what ways can you support and appreciate those who teach God’s Word faithfully today?
- How does the special relationship between God and Moses challenge you to spend more time in God’s presence?
- How does understanding Jesus as the ultimate teacher and mediator affect the way you approach Scripture?
Deuteronomy 5:31 reminds us of the importance of faithfully receiving and teaching God’s Word. It challenges us to be dedicated students of Scripture and to value the role of teaching in the Christian community. Through Jesus, we see the perfect fulfillment of God’s desire to instruct and guide His people, inviting us to learn from Him and share His truth with the world.