Translation: ESV
So Moses continued speaking these words to all Israel.
A true leader knows when their time has ended and steps aside beautifully, preparing the next generation.
▸The chapter containing Moses's final speeches and actions begins.
The chapter containing Moses's final speeches and actions begins. Moses transfers leadership to Joshua, institutes the regular public reading of the law, and is commanded to write a witness song.
Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the LORD your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.
God's promise of eternal accompaniment is the true basis of courage that overcomes fear.
▸These are Moses's words of encouragement to the entire people of Israel.
Then Moses summoned Joshua and said to him in the sight of all Israel, 'Be strong and courageous, for you shall go with this people into the land that the LORD has sworn to their fathers to give them, and you shall put them in possession of it.'
Leadership transition must happen publicly and with encouragement; raising up the next generation is the mission of a mature leader.
▸This is the scene of Joshua being publicly appointed as successor.
Then Moses wrote this law and gave it to the priests, the sons of Levi, who carried the ark of the covenant of the LORD, and to all the elders of Israel.
Writing, preserving, and transmitting God's word to the next generation is a vital responsibility.
▸This demonstrates the importance of writing and preserving the law.
And the LORD commissioned Joshua the son of Nun and said, 'Be strong and courageous, for you shall bring the people of Israel into the land that I swore to give them. I will be with you.'
When God himself commissions and promises his presence, that mission will certainly be accomplished.
▸Now God himself directly commissions Joshua for the task.