Deuteronomy 26:3

to the priest who is serving at that time, and say to him, "I declare today to the LORD your God that I have entered the land that the LORD swore to our fathers to give us."

Study Bible

go to the priest
The instruction to "go to the priest" underscores the importance of the priestly role in ancient Israelite society. The priest acted as an intermediary between the people and God, facilitating worship and ensuring that the covenantal laws were upheld. The Hebrew root for "priest" is "kohen," which signifies one who is set apart for sacred duties. This highlights the sanctity and authority of the priesthood, which was established by God to maintain spiritual order and purity among His people.

who is in office at that time
This phrase indicates the continuity and succession of the priestly office. It suggests that the priesthood is not tied to a specific individual but is an enduring institution. Historically, the priesthood was passed down through the lineage of Aaron, Moses' brother, as outlined in the Torah. This continuity ensured that the spiritual leadership of Israel remained stable and consistent, reflecting God's unchanging nature and His ongoing relationship with His people.

and say to him
The act of speaking to the priest signifies a formal declaration, a public acknowledgment of God's faithfulness. In the ancient Near Eastern context, verbal declarations were binding and carried significant weight. This phrase emphasizes the importance of confession and testimony in the life of faith, as words spoken before God and His representative hold spiritual significance.

I declare today
The word "declare" comes from the Hebrew "nagad," meaning to make known or announce. This declaration is not merely a personal statement but a public proclamation of God's promises fulfilled. The use of "today" underscores the immediacy and relevance of God's actions in the present moment, inviting the believer to recognize and celebrate God's ongoing work in their life.

to the LORD your God
This phrase emphasizes the personal relationship between the Israelites and Yahweh, their covenant God. The use of "your" personalizes the relationship, reminding the Israelites that Yahweh is not a distant deity but their God, who has chosen them as His people. This covenantal relationship is central to the identity and faith of Israel, as it is based on God's promises and faithfulness.

that I have come to the land
The phrase "I have come to the land" signifies the fulfillment of God's promise to the patriarchs—Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The land of Canaan was a tangible sign of God's covenant with Israel, representing His provision and blessing. This statement is a testimony to God's faithfulness in bringing His people into the inheritance He had sworn to give them.

that the LORD swore to our fathers
This phrase recalls the covenantal promises made by God to the patriarchs. The Hebrew word for "swore" is "shaba," which conveys the solemnity and certainty of God's promises. By invoking the patriarchs, the speaker connects their present reality to the historical acts of God, affirming that God's promises transcend generations and are fulfilled in His perfect timing.

to give us
The phrase "to give us" highlights the gracious nature of God's gift. The land is not earned by the Israelites but is given by God as an act of grace. This underscores the theme of divine generosity and the unmerited favor that characterizes God's relationship with His people. It serves as a reminder that all blessings come from God and are to be received with gratitude and humility.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Priest
The religious leader serving at the time, representing the people before God and facilitating their worship and offerings.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who promised the land to the forefathers of the Israelites.

3. The Land
The Promised Land, Canaan, which God swore to give to the ancestors of the Israelites.

4. The Forefathers
The patriarchs of Israel, including Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, to whom God made the promise of the land.

5. The Israelites
The people of God, who are entering and taking possession of the land promised to their ancestors.

Teaching Points

Acknowledgment of God's Faithfulness
The declaration to the priest is an acknowledgment of God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. Believers today can reflect on God's faithfulness in their own lives and give thanks for His provision and guidance.

The Importance of Testimony
The act of declaring before the priest serves as a public testimony of God's work. Christians are encouraged to share their testimonies of God's faithfulness and provision with others, strengthening the faith community.

The Role of Spiritual Leadership
The priest's role in receiving the declaration highlights the importance of spiritual leadership in guiding and supporting the faith journey of believers. Christians should seek and respect godly leadership within their communities.

Living in the Fulfillment of God's Promises
Just as the Israelites entered the Promised Land, believers are called to live in the reality of God's promises, trusting in His continued faithfulness and provision.

Gratitude and Worship
The declaration is an act of worship and gratitude. Believers are encouraged to cultivate a heart of gratitude, regularly expressing thanks to God for His blessings and faithfulness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the act of declaring God's faithfulness to the priest in Deuteronomy 26:3 relate to the practice of sharing personal testimonies in the church today?

2. In what ways can we acknowledge and celebrate God's faithfulness in our own lives, similar to the Israelites' declaration upon entering the Promised Land?

3. How does understanding the role of the priest in ancient Israel inform our view of spiritual leadership in the church today?

4. What are some promises of God that you are currently living in, and how can you express gratitude for these in your daily life?

5. How do the promises made to the forefathers of Israel and their fulfillment encourage you in your personal faith journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 12:7
This verse records God's promise to Abraham to give his descendants the land, establishing the foundation for the declaration in Deuteronomy 26:3.

Exodus 3:8
God reiterates His promise to deliver the Israelites from Egypt and bring them to a good and spacious land, a land flowing with milk and honey.

Joshua 21:43-45
These verses confirm the fulfillment of God's promise, as the Israelites take possession of the land.

Hebrews 11:8-10
This passage highlights the faith of Abraham, who obeyed and went to the land he would later receive as an inheritance.