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In the addresses recorded in Deuteronomy, Moses summarizes the essence of Israel's religion. "Not law, but covenant" is the basic idea in the relationship initiated by God with Israel. God's love had been bestowed upon their fathers, the partiarchs, and now was manifested in the Israelites' deliverance from Egypt and their sustenance throughout the wilderness wanderings. Moses' primary concern was that they should respond with a wholehearted love toward God. This was the only way in which they could continue to enjoy God's favor and blessing. Genuine love for God would be evident in such a reverence and respect for God and commitment to Him that they would naturally be concerned with obeying the divine instructions pertaining to holy living, Consequently justice and righteousness would permeate their daily lives, as their love was extended to their fellow brothers and sisters.
To maintain this vital love relationship between the Israelites and their God, parents were charged to teach their children (4.9-10; 6.7) the fear of God by precept and example. Through the observance of the annual festivals - the Passover, the Feast of Weeks, and the Feast of Tabernacles - as well as other convocations, the Israelites periodically reminded the next generation of God's love for them displayed in redemption from Egypt and in their continued sustenance through the provision of crops.
Outline:
I. Israel's lesson from history 1.1-4.43
II. The essence of the law 4.44-11.32
III. Righteousness in practice 12.1-26.19
IV. Warnings and preductions 27.1-30.20
V. Perspective for new leadership 31.1-34.12
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