“And he said unto them, I am an hundred and twenty years old this day; I can no more go out and come in: also the Lord hath said unto me, Thou shalt not go over this Jordan.”
Historical Context: Deuteronomy is the fifth book of the Old Testament and is part of the Pentateuch, traditionally attributed to Moses. It records Moses’ final words and instructions to the Israelites before they enter the Promised Land. Deuteronomy means “second law,” referring to the repetition of the Law given to Israel.
Moses’ Age: In this verse, Moses declares that he is a hundred and twenty years old. This statement marks the conclusion of his life and leadership. Moses had led the Israelites for forty years in the wilderness, and now, at this advanced age, he acknowledges that he can no longer carry out the responsibilities of leading them into the Promised Land.
“I can no more go out and come in”: When Moses says, “I can no more go out and come in,” he is acknowledging his physical limitations due to his age. He recognizes that his strength and vitality are no longer sufficient for the challenges that lie ahead. This statement signifies the passing of the torch from Moses to Joshua, who will lead the Israelites into the Promised Land.
The Lord’s Prohibition: Moses mentions that the Lord has said to him, “Thou shalt not go over this Jordan.” This refers to God’s earlier instruction to Moses that he would not be permitted to enter the Promised Land because of an incident of disobedience at Meribah (Numbers 20:7-13). Despite his faithful leadership, Moses would not experience the fulfillment of entering the land flowing with milk and honey.
Spiritual Lessons:
- Passing the Torch: One lesson from this verse is the importance of recognizing when a season of leadership or responsibility has come to an end. Moses acknowledges his limitations and willingly entrusts the leadership to JoshuIt teaches us humility, recognizing that God’s work continues through successive generations.
- God’s Sovereignty: Moses’ inability to cross the Jordan River demonstrates God’s authority and His faithfulness to His word. It emphasizes that even great leaders are subject to God’s commands and are accountable for their actions. It reminds us to obey God’s instructions and trust in His sovereign plans.
- Accepting God’s Will: Moses accepts God’s prohibition without resentment or rebellion. Despite his deep desire to enter the Promised Land, he submits to God’s decision and focuses on fulfilling his final duties. It encourages us to accept God’s will for our lives, even when it differs from our desires.
- Legacy and Succession: Moses’ willingness to step aside paves the way for Joshua to assume leadership and fulfill God’s purpose for the Israelites. It highlights the importance of mentoring, discipleship, and the passing on of spiritual legacies. We should invest in the lives of others, equipping them to continue God’s work.
Overall, Deuteronomy 31:2 reflects Moses’ humility, obedience, and acceptance of God’s will. It also emphasizes the continuity of God’s plans and the importance of passing the torch to the next generation.
