Old Testament
Deuteronomy 3:28
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Instead, commission Joshua. Encourage him and strengthen him, because he's the one who will lead this people across and help them take possession of the land you can only see from here."
Compare translations
But charge Joshua, and encourage him, and strengthen him: for he shall go over before this people, and he shall cause them to inherit the land which thou shalt see.
What Deuteronomy 3:28 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Moses is nearing the end of his journey and knows he won't enter the Promised Land. Instead of focusing on his own disappointment, he turns his attention to Joshua, the next leader. Moses understands that Joshua will need encouragement and strength to guide the people into a new chapter of their lives. This is a powerful reminder of the importance of mentorship and support in leadership. By commissioning Joshua, Moses is ensuring that the vision for the future continues. He sees the land from a distance, but Joshua will lead the people to experience it fully. This transition is not just about land; it’s about faith, courage, and the continuation of a promise. Moses’ actions show us that true leadership involves preparing others to succeed, even when we cannot be part of that success ourselves. It’s a lesson in selflessness and the importance of empowering others to fulfill their potential and dreams, especially in challenging times. Joshua’s journey will be filled with challenges, but with encouragement, he can lead the people to their destiny.
How to apply Deuteronomy 3:28 to your life
Consider how you can support someone in your life who is stepping into a new role or challenge. Offer your encouragement and strength, just as Moses did for Joshua. Your support can make a significant difference in their journey and success. Remember, empowering others is a vital part of leadership and community building.
Curated for this public verse page. Deuteronomy Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Esther's story: Esther Becomes Queen (Esther 2:1–18)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Esther
Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Shiloh
Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Deuteronomy 3:28
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Deuteronomy 3:28
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Deuteronomy
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites about to enter the Promised Land
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Deuteronomy 3:28 mean?
Deuteronomy 3:28 highlights Moses commissioning Joshua as the new leader of the Israelites. It emphasizes the importance of encouraging and strengthening leaders as they guide others into new challenges and opportunities.
What is the significance of Joshua in Deuteronomy 3:28?
In Deuteronomy 3:28, Joshua represents the next generation of leadership. Moses recognizes that Joshua will lead the people into the Promised Land, and he emphasizes the need for support and encouragement in this transition.
How does Deuteronomy 3:28 relate to mentorship?
Deuteronomy 3:28 illustrates the concept of mentorship by showing how Moses prepares Joshua for leadership. It underscores the role of experienced leaders in guiding and empowering their successors.
What themes are present in Deuteronomy 3:28?
Key themes in Deuteronomy 3:28 include leadership, mentorship, encouragement, faith, and transition. The verse reflects the importance of supporting others as they step into new roles and responsibilities.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.