The Book of Deuteronomy – KJV Summary, Key Teachings & Book Facts

Deuteronomy is the fifth book of the Bible, the fifth book of the Old Testament, and the final book of the Law. In the King James Version (KJV), Deuteronomy contains 34 chapters and 959 verses. The book records Moses' final instructions to the children of Israel before they enter the promised land, reviewing God's faithfulness, restating His commandments, renewing the covenant, and urging a new generation to love and obey the LORD.

Summary of Deuteronomy

Deuteronomy begins on the plains of Moab as the children of Israel prepare to cross the Jordan River and enter the promised land. Moses addresses a new generation, most of whom were children or had not yet been born when Israel departed from Egypt. He reviews the nation's journey from Mount Horeb, recalls the sending of the twelve spies, Israel's refusal to enter Canaan, the years of wilderness wandering, and God's victories over kings east of Jordan. Throughout this review, Moses reminds Israel that the LORD has remained faithful despite the unbelief and rebellion of the previous generation.

Moses then restates the Ten Commandments and calls Israel to wholehearted obedience. He teaches that the LORD alone is God and commands the people to love Him with all their heart, soul, and might. Israel is warned not to forget God when they receive houses, fields, prosperity, and rest in the promised land. Moses reminds them that their blessings do not come because of their own righteousness, but because of God's faithfulness to His promises. The people are instructed to teach God's words diligently to their children and to keep His commandments continually before them.

Much of Deuteronomy applies God's Law to the life Israel is about to establish in Canaan. Moses gives instructions concerning worship, idolatry, clean and unclean food, tithes, care for the poor, servants, appointed feasts, judges, kings, priests, prophets, cities of refuge, warfare, family relationships, property, justice, vows, and treatment of strangers. Israel is repeatedly commanded to separate itself from idolatry and the practices of the nations around them. Moses sets before the people the choice of blessing for obedience and judgment for turning away from the LORD.

In the closing chapters, Moses renews the covenant and calls heaven and earth to witness Israel's choice between life and death, blessing and cursing. Joshua is publicly appointed to succeed Moses and lead the people into Canaan. Moses writes the Law, gives Israel a prophetic song, and blesses the tribes before his death. He then climbs Mount Nebo, where God allows him to see the promised land from a distance. Deuteronomy closes with the death of Moses and Israel mourning the great prophet through whom God had led them from Egypt to the borders of Canaan.