O Lord God : O Lord Jehovah . For what God , etc. (comp. Exodus 15:11 ; Psalms 86:8 ; Psalms 89:6 ; Psalms 113:5 , etc.). "The contrast drawn between Jehovah and other gods does not involve the reality of heathen deities, but simply presupposes a belief in the existence of other gods, without deciding as to the truth of that belief" (Keil). read more
Deuteronomy 3:23-24. I besought the Lord We should allow no desire in our hearts, which we cannot in faith offer unto God by prayer. Thou hast begun to show thy servant thy greatness Lord, perfect what thou hast begun. The more we see of God’s glory in his works, the more we desire to see. And the more affected we are with what we have seen of God, the better we are prepared for further discoveries. read more
From Kadesh to Jordan (2:1-3:29)God told the Israelites that if they went through the land of Edom, they were not to seize any territory. This was partly because Edom was Israel’s brother nation (being descended from Esau), and partly because the Edomites’ territory, formerly possessed by the Horites, had been given them by God (2:1-7). Similar restrictions applied to Israel’s relations with the nations of Moab and Ammon, both of which were also related to Israel (being descended from Lot).... read more
Lord GOD = Adonai J ' ehovah . See App-4 . This prayer not mentioned elsewhere. hand. Figure of speech Metonymy (of Cause), put for works wrought by the hand. read more
"And I besought Jehovah at that time, saying, O Lord Jehovah, thou hast begun to show thy servant thy greatness, and thy strong hand: for what god is there in heaven or in earth, that can do according to thy works, and according to thy mighty acts? Let me go over, I pray thee, and see the good land that is beyond the Jordan, that goodly mountain, and Lebanon. But Jehovah was wroth with me for your sakes, and hearkened not unto me; and Jehovah said unto me; Let it suffice thee; speak no more... read more
Ver. 21-29. As Joshua was ordained to succeed Moses in the government, he repeats the encouragement that he gave him to be brave and confident in so good a cause. Joshua had seen already some of God's mighty acts, and he was assured that such would be the success which should ever attend him, since it was the Lord who fought their battles. If God be for us, wherefore should we fear or doubt? Moses mentions his own desire and prayer, and the refusal he met with. 1. He adores God for the mercies... read more
Ver. 23. And I besought the Lord at that time— The Samaritan text introduces this petition, &c. in Num 20:13 where, probably, it has been omitted in the Hebrew text for brevity sake, And I implored grace, says Moses; according to the original, I prayed God to pardon me. The chastisements which God denounces against sinners are sometimes no other than threatenings, whose execution repentance prevents, 2 Kings 1:6; Jonah 3:4; Jon 3:10 and God had granted to the Israelites such amazing success... read more
Ver. 24. What god is there in heaven, &c.— Moses here speaks in reference to the popular notion of the times concerning particular and tutelary gods; yet, at the same time, with a full confession of his belief in the omnipotence of Jehovah. St. Paul, 1Co 8:5 seems plainly to refer to this passage. See commentary on Deu 3:29 read more
A. God’s past dealings with Israel 1:6-3:29Moses began this first "sermon" by reviewing God’s faithfulness to Israel. God had been faithful in bringing the nation from Sinai to her present location, and by giving her victory over her Transjordanian enemies. He also reminded the people of the future blessings that she could anticipate. read more
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The Pulpit Commentary - Deuteronomy 3:23-29
God's refusal of man's wishes. We have in this singularly pathetic passage of the private history of Moses— I. AN AFFECTING ENTREATY . "I pray thee, let me go over, and see the good land," etc. ( Deuteronomy 3:24 , Deuteronomy 3:25 ). In this speaks 1. The man . How hard to flesh and blood to be cut off just then! To see the goodly land ( Deuteronomy 3:27 ), but not to enter it. Yet not an uncommon experience. Few things are more painful than to be removed when just... read more