Bible Commentaries

In recounting the story of the writing of the Law the second time, Moses distinctly affirmed that these tables too were written by God Himself. This was the culminating word in all he had said to them concerning their unfaithfulness. Side by side with their failure had been the manifestation of the pity and forbearance of God. They were therefore now being called upon to enter the land in spite of their own unrighteousness because of the compassion of God and His set determination to carry forward His larger purposes through them.

In a passage of great beauty, thrilling with earnestness, Moses made a statement summarizing the truth concerning the requirements of God as His people entered the land. The whole revealed the fact that everything depended on their relationship to Him. They were to fear Him, that is reverence; to walk in His ways, that is obedience; to love Him, that is worship; to serve Him, that is co­operation; to keep His commandments, that is fidelity.

In order to encourage them in such attitudes and activities, he made two great declarations concerning God. The first (verses Deuteronomy 10:14­16) concerned their relationship to Him. He is a great God, possessing all. He is a God of love, having delighted in their fathers and choosing their seed. In consequence of these facts they were called on to maintain the attitude of separation, in the words, "Circumcise . . . the foreskin of your heart."

The second (verses Deuteronomy 10:17­19) declared anew the greatness of God as the Ruler of all things and of His love as it expresses itself in just dealing with the needy and the stranger. These convictions were to create their attitude toward strangers. They were to love them. Finally He made his appeal to them to fear, serve, cleave I to, and swear by Jehovah their God.