to see our brethren at rest too, and should be ready to do what we can towards it; for we are not
born for ourselves, but are members one of another.
Verses 21–29
Moses encouraged Joshua, who was to succeed him. Thus the aged and experienced in the
service of God, should do all they can to strengthen the hands of those who are young, and setting
out in religion. Consider what God has done, what God has promised. If God be for us, who can
be against us, so as to prevail? We reproach our Leader if we follow him trembling. Moses prayed,
that, if it were God's will, he might go before Israel, over Jordan into Canaan. We should never
allow any desires in our hearts, which we cannot in faith offer up to God by prayer. God's answer
to this prayer had a mixture of mercy and judgment. God sees it good to deny many things we
desire. He may accept our prayers, yet not grant us the very things we pray for. It God does not by
his providence give us what we desire, yet if by his grace he makes us content without, it comes
to much the same. Let it suffice thee to have God for thy Father, and heaven for thy portion, though
thou hast not every thing thou wouldst have in the world. God promised Moses a sight of Canaan
from the top of Pisgah. Though he should not have the possession of it, he should have the prospect
of it. Even great believers, in this present state, see heaven but at a distance. God provided him a
successor. It is a comfort to the friends of the church of Christ, to see God's work likely to be carried
on by others, when they are silent in the dust. And if we have the earnest and prospect of heaven,
let these suffice us; let us submit to the Lord's will, and speak no more to Him of matters which he
sees good to refuse us.
Chapter 4
Chapter Outline
Earnest exhortations to obedience, and (1–23)
dissuasives from idolatry.
Warnings against disobedience, and (24–40)
promises of mercy.
Cities of refuge appointed. (41–49)Verses 1–23
The power and love of God to Israel are here made the ground and reason of a number of
cautions and serious warnings; and although there is much reference to their national covenant, yet
all may be applied to those who live under the gospel. What are laws made for but to be observed
and obeyed? Our obedience as individuals cannot merit salvation; but it is the only evidence that
we are partakers of the gift of God, which is eternal life through Jesus Christ, Considering how
many temptations we are compassed with, and what corrupt desires we have in our bosoms, we
have great need to keep our hearts with all diligence. Those cannot walk aright, who walk carelessly.