Moses’ Instructions

Moses’ Instructions

Q: What does Moses instruct the people to do in the beginning of Deuteronomy?

• a. set a guard over the things in their tents
• b. pass the stories of the things God has done on to their children
• c. offer a sin offering weekly

Can you think of an event in your dad’s life when he was growing up? Can you retell a story about your mom’s youth? If your family is like most, there are stories that are told over and over. You probably have a few stories of your own about how you won a contest or blew up your science fair project.

The book of Deuteronomy begins with Moses reminding the people of all God had done for them. He instructed parents to pass the stories on to their children. Moses set the example by retelling the story of their wandering through the wilderness.

Unfortunately, there came a time when no one was left who knew the stories of how God had brought the Israelites from Egypt to the Promised Land. The people did not follow Moses’ instructions to pass along the stories of God.

Referring to the time after Joshua had died, Judges 2:10 says, “After that generation died, another generation grew up who did not acknowledge the LORD or remember the mighty things he had done for Israel.” That led to a hard time for the Israelites. And it could have been avoided if the people had been careful to do what Moses said.

For You

If you’ve gone to church all your life, you’ve probably learned quite a few Bible stories, and that’s a good thing. Never get tired of hearing the same stories over and over again. But now that you’re older, don’t stop at that. Read the stories in the Bible for yourself so you will never be guilty of forgetting about God or the stories in the Bible.

Answer: b

Watch out! Be careful never to forget what you yourself have seen. Do not let these memories escape from your mind as long as you live! And be sure to pass them on to your children and grandchildren.   Deuteronomy 4:9

(The Whole Story: Deuteronomy 4:1-14)