These were my notes and discussion questions for our 7/25/2010 church meeting.
Leader: Tim Harris
Assignment
The topic for this assembly will be "Mountains and Valleys." Read Deut. 34 and Josh. 1 and bring a question for discussion.
My Notes
- The book of Deuteronomy contains the last actions of Moses as the Israelites were camped across the Jordan River from Jericho. (Deut. 1:1)
- The Israelites are concluding the 40 years of punishment because of their refusal to go take the land after the spies' report. (1:3)
- Joshua has been selected as successor to Moses (Deut. 31:7-8) and GOD inaugurated Joshua, giving him instruction in Deut. 31:23.
- GOD gives Moses the song of Deut. 32 and Moses teaches it to the Israelites.
- This same day GOD tells Moses to go up on Mount Nebo where he will die (Deut. 32:48-52).
Discussion Questions
- What do you think Moses felt as he looked over the land of Canaan on top of the mountain?
- Place yourself in the shoes of an Israelite during these days. How would you describe the feelings of the Israelites when Moses died?
- What made Moses a great leader?
- What specifically was so special and unique about Moses' relationship with GOD?
- Place yourself in Joshua's shoes. How would you feel during the events of these chapters?
- In what ways does Eccl. 3:1-8 apply to the events of these chapters?
- In what ways do these chapters synopsize our individual life?
- Can a man be a great man without being a great leader?
Lord's Supper Thoughts
In continuing our theme I'd like to consider some mountains and valleys in Jesus' journey:
- Luke 19:28-40, John 12:12-19 - Jesus' entry into Jerusalem (mountain and valley)
- John 13:21-30 - Jesus identifies His betrayer (valley)
- Luke 22:39-48 - Jesus goes to Gethsemane, is strengthened and arrested (valley)
- Luke 23:26-33 - Jesus marches to Calvary where He is crucified (valley)
- Acts 2:22-36 - Jesus was not left in Hades (valley) but ascended to THE highest mountain—heaven
