Definition: Neither with you only do I make this covenant and this oath;
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly important verse from Deuteronomy 29:14. It’s a really significant statement about God's relationship to His people and the future of Israel. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, God is saying that He’s not just making a covenant (a promise or agreement) with them – the Israelites – but also making a covenant with them through their leaders. Let's unpack that: “Neither with you only do I make this covenant…” This means God isn't creating a new agreement just for the Israelites. He’s already made a promise to them long ago – a promise of faithfulness and obedience. "...and this oath;" This is where it gets deeper. The "oath" part refers to a solemn promise, a vow, or an oath that God makes. It's a commitment he makes for the sake of His relationship with his people. “...”” The crucial part is the “...””. It’s like a reminder that this covenant isn’t just happening with them. It’s happening through their leaders – Moses and all those who follow him. So, what does it mean practically? It means that God intends to guide and lead Israel, but He's also going to use His representatives (leaders) to carry out his promises and ensure faithfulness. It’s about a system of leadership and accountability that will keep the Israelites on the right path. Think of it like this: God is giving instructions and expectations, but He’s also entrusting those instructions to people who are responsible for making sure they're followed. Why is this important? This verse is often interpreted as a call to action . It suggests that God wants to see Israel flourish and prosper, and that His leadership will be crucial in achieving that. It’s a promise of blessing and success for the nation if they remain faithful. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of Deuteronomy 29? Give an example of how this verse might be applied today? Discuss the historical context of this verse (when was it written, and why)?