Deuteronomy 9:1

Hear, O Israel: Today you are about to cross the Jordan to go in and dispossess nations greater and stronger than you, with large cities fortified to the heavens.

Study Bible

Hear, O Israel
This opening phrase is a call to attention, a divine summons to the people of Israel. The Hebrew word for "hear" is "shema," which implies not just listening but also obeying. It is a call to action, urging the Israelites to focus on the message that follows. This phrase is reminiscent of the Shema prayer in Deuteronomy 6:4, which is central to Jewish worship and emphasizes the importance of listening to God's commandments. The invocation of "O Israel" personalizes the message, reminding the people of their identity as God's chosen nation.

Today you are about to cross the Jordan
The phrase "Today you are about to cross the Jordan" situates the Israelites at a pivotal moment in their history. The Jordan River represents a boundary between the wilderness and the Promised Land. Crossing it signifies a transition from a period of wandering to one of fulfillment of God's promises. The immediacy of "today" underscores the urgency and reality of God's promises coming to fruition. Historically, the Jordan River was a significant geographical marker, and its crossing is a recurring theme of transition and divine intervention in the Bible.

to enter and dispossess nations
The command "to enter and dispossess nations" speaks to the divine mandate given to Israel to take possession of the land promised to their forefathers. The Hebrew word for "dispossess" is "yarash," which means to inherit or take possession. This action is not merely a military conquest but a fulfillment of God's covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. It reflects the theological understanding that the land is a divine gift, and Israel's role is to claim it as part of their covenantal relationship with God.

greater and stronger than you
The description of the nations as "greater and stronger than you" highlights the formidable challenge that lies ahead for the Israelites. This acknowledgment of the enemy's strength serves to magnify the power and faithfulness of God, who will deliver these nations into Israel's hands despite their apparent superiority. It is a reminder that the success of Israel is not based on their own might but on their reliance on God's promises and power. Historically, the Canaanite nations were known for their fortified cities and advanced military capabilities, making this divine assurance even more significant.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Israel
The chosen people of God, descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, who are about to enter the Promised Land.

2. Jordan River
The boundary that the Israelites must cross to enter Canaan, symbolizing a transition from the wilderness to the Promised Land.

3. Nations Greater and Stronger
Refers to the Canaanite nations inhabiting the land, known for their strength and fortified cities.

4. Fortified Cities
Cities with strong defenses, representing the formidable challenges Israel will face.

5. Moses
The leader of Israel, delivering God's message and preparing the people for the conquest of Canaan.

Teaching Points

Trust in God's Promises
Despite the daunting task ahead, Israel is reminded to trust in God's promise to give them the land. We, too, must trust in God's promises, even when facing overwhelming challenges.

God's Sovereignty and Power
The description of nations "greater and stronger" underscores God's sovereignty. He is able to overcome any obstacle, and we should rely on His power rather than our own.

Obedience and Faith
Israel's success depends on their obedience to God's commands. Our spiritual victories also hinge on our willingness to follow God's guidance faithfully.

Facing Giants with Courage
The fortified cities symbolize the "giants" in our lives. With God's help, we can face and overcome these challenges with courage and faith.

Preparation for Spiritual Battles
Just as Israel prepared to enter the Promised Land, we must prepare for spiritual battles through prayer, study, and reliance on God's Word.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does crossing the Jordan symbolize in your own spiritual journey, and how can you prepare for such transitions?

2. How can you apply the lesson of trusting in God's promises when facing challenges that seem greater and stronger than you?

3. In what ways can you rely on God's sovereignty and power in your daily life, especially when encountering "fortified cities" or difficult situations?

4. How does obedience to God's Word equip you to face spiritual battles, and what steps can you take to ensure you are following His guidance?

5. Reflect on a time when you faced a "giant" in your life. How did your faith in God help you overcome it, and what can you learn from that experience to apply to future challenges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 1:2-6
This passage continues the account as Joshua leads Israel across the Jordan, emphasizing God's promise and presence.

Numbers 13:28-33
The initial report of the spies highlights the strength of the Canaanite cities, setting the stage for Israel's challenge.

Hebrews 11:30
Reflects on the faith required to conquer Jericho, a fortified city, illustrating the power of faith in God's promises.

Psalm 44:3
Reminds us that Israel's victories were not by their own strength but by God's favor and power.