Deuteronomy 3:28
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.
Deuteronomy 3:28 · King James Version
Meaning
Joshua was the chosen leader to succeed Moses in leading the people of Israel to enter the Promised Land. In this verse, God instructs Moses to charge, encourage, and strengthen Joshua for the task ahead. This shows the importance of providing support and motivation to those entrusted with great responsibilities. By empowering Joshua, God ensured that he would successfully lead the people across the Jordan River and into the land that had been promised to their ancestors. This verse serves as a reminder of the need to uplift and strengthen leaders as they navigate the challenges and obstacles that come their way. It also highlights the faith that God had in Joshua to fulfill the important role of bringing the Israelites into the land of Canaan. It is a message of encouragement and assurance that God's plan will be fulfilled through those He has chosen.
Theological Overview
When looking at the theological interpretation of this verse, it is important to note the significance of handing over leadership from Moses to Joshua. Moses was commanded to charge Joshua, encourage him, and strengthen him for the responsibility that lay ahead. This transition of leadership symbolizes a passing of the baton from one generation to the next, highlighting the faithful provision of God in ensuring His people's journey continues even after the passing of their beloved leader. The words used in the verse - charge, encourage, and strengthen - convey the idea of equipping and empowering Joshua for the task at hand. Through careful study of these words, we see that Joshua was not only instructed to lead the people into the promised land but also reminded of the support and guidance he would receive from God. This verse serves as a reminder that God equips His chosen leaders for the challenges they face and empowers them to fulfill the purposes He has set before them.
Deuteronomy 3:28 in other translations
American Standard Version
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.
World English Bible
But commission 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 you shall see.”
Douay-Rheims
Command Josue, and encourage and strengthen him: for he shall go before this people, and shall divide unto them the land which thou shalt see.
Geneva Bible (1599)
But charge Ioshua, and incourage him, and bolden him: for hee shall goe before this people, and he shall deuide for inheritance vnto them, the land which thou shalt see.