Deuteronomy 27:3 KJV

And thou shalt write upon them all the words of this law, when thou art passed over, that thou mayest go in unto the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee, a land that floweth with milk and honey; as the LORD God of thy fathers hath promised thee.

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Deuteronomy 27:3 Bible Commentary

Commentary on Deuteronomy 27:3

Verse Text: "And thou shalt write upon them all the words of this law, when thou art passed over, that thou mayest go in unto the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee, a land that floweth with milk and honey; as the LORD God of thy fathers hath promised thee."

Introduction

The verse in Deuteronomy 27:3 signifies a pivotal moment in Israel's history—an emphasis on the importance of adhering to God's laws as they prepare to enter the Promised Land. This command to write the law upon stones set the foundation for the covenant relationship between God and His people. Insights from various public domain commentaries shed light on the depth of this command and its implications for both ancient Israel and modern readers.

The Command to Write

Matthew Henry's Commentary emphasizes the solemnity of the act of writing the law. The Israelites are not merely to remember these commandments but to publicly declare them through inscription. This public display serves as a permanent reminder of God's covenant and demands that those who enter the land be constantly conscious of their duty to uphold His laws.

Albert Barnes notes that the act of writing the law on stones symbolizes the permanence and unchanging nature of God's word. He compares this act to the engraving of laws on stone tablets, indicating that these commandments are made to endure and should shape the identity and conduct of the people in their new land.

The Significance of the Land

In the context of Deuteronomy 27:3, the Promised Land is described as "a land that floweth with milk and honey." This expression signifies abundance and divine blessing. Adam Clarke points out that this imagery represents not just material prosperity but also spiritual richness. The land serves as a backdrop for the covenantal relationship where blessings are contingent upon obedience to God's commandments.

Connection with the Covenant

The command to write the law is intrinsically tied to the covenant that God established with Israel. Matthew Henry further elucidates that this act of writing is not simply for their benefit but is also a means of keeping the memory of God's fidelities alive. The Israelites are reminded of their history of deliverance from Egypt and their new responsibilities in the land of promise.

Spiritual Implications

Both Albert Barnes and Adam Clarke identify themes of obedience and remembrance. Writing the law signifies that the law must govern not just their actions but also their hearts and minds. It is a call for the nation to live in a way that reflects their identity as God's chosen people and a testament to their faithfulness to Him.

  • Obedience to God: The writing of the law emphasizes that obedience must accompany their entrance into the land.
  • Call to Remember: The public inscription acts as a spiritual and communal memory that sustains their covenant identity.
  • Legacy for Future Generations: By cementing these laws in the land, they bequeath a legacy of faithfulness to future generations.

Application for Modern Readers

For pastors, students, theologians, and Bible scholars today, Deuteronomy 27:3 holds profound significance. In today's context, the call to inscribe God's truths upon our hearts resonates deeply, as seen in New Testament theology that reflects similar themes of internalizing God's commandments.

Application Points:

  • Spiritual Immersion: Just as Israel was to immerse themselves in God's law, contemporary believers are called to immerse themselves in Scripture.
  • Living Out Faith: The writing symbolizes not just knowledge of the law but living it out in daily life to reflect God’s character.
  • Community Responsibility: Upholding God's word is not merely individual but a corporate calling, as the community reflects God's kingdom on earth.

Conclusion

Deuteronomy 27:3 is a powerful reminder of our commitment to God and His eternal truths. The command to write the law signals a lifelong commitment to live in accordance with God's will. The insights provided by public domain scholars deepen our understanding of this verse and challenge us, as modern believers, to uphold God's commands in our lives today.