Deuteronomy 29 Commentary

Moses concludes the covenant renewal text of Deuteronomy by reminding his audience of the covenant relationship the Suzerain (Ruler) God has established with His vassals, Israel. He begins a new covenant which adds to the covenant made at Horeb (Sinai).

As an introduction to an additional covenant, Moses reviewed some of the key events in Israel’s history to motivate the Israelites to obey their Suzerain (Ruler) God.

Moses described the parties that were about to enter into this additional covenant between the Suzerain (Ruler) God and the Israelites. This covenant will establish them as His treasured possession, as He swore to Israel’s ancestors.

Moses makes it clear that this additional covenant the LORD establishes with Israel applies not only to all those who are present but to all future generations as well. It is a covenant between the Suzerain (Ruler) God and the Israelites (His vassals) in perpetuity.

The LORD’s devastating judgment on the people and on the Promised Land would serve as a warning to the future generations of Israelites.

Moses encourages the Israelites to obey all the covenantal laws. Everything that the Suzerain God reveals must be obeyed. Things that are not revealed are left to God.