Overview:
Deuteronomy 34
Following an unparalleled life, Moses went to be with God. Deuteronomy 34 records how no one else had a walk with God like Moses had.
Pastor Chuck Swindoll points out that Moses is the only man in all the Bible of whom it’s said God buried. At 120 years old, what incredible wonders Moses had seen since his start as a helpless infant left afloat in a basket!
Listen in as Pastor Chuck takes an insightful look at what made Moses’ life exceptional, including his humility, godliness, and involvement in God’s work.
Message Summary:
In this nineteenth message of the series Moses: A Man of Selfless Dedication, Pastor Chuck Swindoll reflects on the final chapter of Moses’ life. After 120 years of unparalleled service—spanning the palaces of Egypt, the deserts of Midian, and the wilderness of Zin—Moses stands on Mount Nebo. This study of Deuteronomy 34 provides a poignant look at the death of a hero and the divine eulogy given to the man who spoke with God “face to face.”
Message Key Facts:
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The Final Ascent: At 120 years old, with his eyesight undimmed and his vigor unabated, Moses climbed Mount Nebo to the top of Pisgah to view the Promised Land he was not permitted to enter.
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The Divine Burial: Moses is the only individual in Scripture of whom it is said that God Himself performed the burial in a valley in the land of Moab.
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The Unmatched Legacy: The Bible records that since Moses, no prophet has risen in Israel like him—someone whom the Lord knew so intimately.
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The Transition of Leadership: Before his death, Moses laid his hands on Joshua, the son of Nun, ensuring that the spirit of wisdom and the mission of God would continue.
Message References:
Primary Scripture Reference: Deuteronomy 34
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Deuteronomy 34:1–4: The Lord shows Moses the full extent of the Promised Land, from Gilead to Dan, confirming the fulfillment of the covenant made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
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Deuteronomy 34:5–7: The death and mysterious burial of Moses, noting his remarkable physical health even at the end of his life.
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Deuteronomy 34:10: The core of Moses’ greatness: “Since then no prophet has risen in Israel like Moses, whom the Lord knew face to face.”
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Deuteronomy 34:11–12: A recap of the “mighty power” and “awesome deeds” Moses performed in the sight of all Israel.
Lessons from a Life Well-Lived
Pastor Chuck Swindoll highlights the qualities that made Moses’ life exceptional and applicable for believers today:
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Cultivate Intimacy with God: Moses’ greatest “heroism” was not the plagues or the Red Sea, but his relationship with God. He was a man who prioritized being known by the Lord.
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Finish with Grace: Despite the disappointment of not entering the Promised Land, Moses did not die in bitterness. He spent his final days empowering his successor and praising God.
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Humility is the Foundation of Greatness: Moses remained a “servant of the Lord” (Deuteronomy 34:5) until the very end. True dedication is found in staying small in our own eyes while God remains big.
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Influence Outlives the Individual: Through his investment in Joshua and his recording of the Law, Moses’ impact continued long after his physical presence was gone.
