Understanding Deuteronomy 1:39

Verse: "And your little ones, which ye said should be a prey, and your children, which in that day had no knowledge between good and evil, they shall go in thither, and unto them will I give it, and they shall possess it."

This verse appears within the context of Moses' recounting to the Israelites regarding their wandering in the wilderness due to their lack of faith. In it, God assures the children, who were innocent and unaware of the consequences of their parents’ disobedience, that they would inherit the Promised Land.

Summarized Insights from Public Domain Commentaries

The various insights from respected biblical commentators provide a deeper understanding of the themes and implications of Deuteronomy 1:39:

• Matthew Henry:

  Henry emphasizes the mercy of God towards the innocent, illustrating how God's grace extends to the children despite their parents' failings. He highlights that while the adults feared the enemies in the land, the children were given an inheritance, reflecting God's paternal love and justice.

• Albert Barnes:

  Barnes points out that the "little ones" mentioned were those who could not discern good from evil. This suggests God's recognition of innocence and the importance of understanding spiritual descernment. He also indicates that this promise serves to offer hope for future generations within Israel.

• Adam Clarke:

  Clarke comments on the significance of children's forthcoming possession of the land, viewing it as a testament to God's fidelity to His promises. He explains how this reflects the theme of trust and reliance on God for the fulfillment of divine promises in adverse situations.

Thematic Connections

The themes of innocence, justice, and divine promises present in Deuteronomy 1:39 resonate throughout the Bible. This verse establishes an inter-Biblical dialogue regarding how God's covenant interactions extend across generations.

Cross-References

Here are notable cross-references that relate to Deuteronomy 1:39:

• Exodus 23:22 - God's promise to protect and bless the children of Israel if they follow Him faithfully.
• Numbers 14:31 - God reiterates the promise to the innocent children who would enter the Promised Land.
• Isaiah 65:23 - Portrays a future where children will be blessed and safe within God's provision.
• Matthew 18:3 - Jesus emphasizes the value of humility and childlike faith in approaching the Kingdom of Heaven.
• Luke 18:16 - Jesus encourages bringing children to Him, affirming their place in His kingdom.
• Romans 9:11 - References God's sovereignty in choosing whom He will bless regardless of human choices or actions.
• 2 Timothy 3:15 - Highlights the importance of early spiritual upbringing that leads to salvation through faith.

Conclusion

Deuteronomy 1:39 serves as a poignant reminder of God's grace and mercy toward those who are innocent. Through the lens of various biblical commentaries, we see the richness of meaning embedded within this verse, emphasizing themes of divine justice and the enduring nature of God's promises across generations. The cross-references illustrate how interconnected the Scriptures are and how understanding one verse can lead to insights about many others.