Scripture reading for this post:
“See, I have taught you decrees and laws as the Lord my God commanded me, so that you may follow them in the land you are entering to take possession of it.
“Observe them carefully, for this will show your wisdom and understanding to the nations, who will hear about all these decrees and say, “Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people.” What other nation is so great as to have their gods near them the way the Lord our God is near us whenever we pray to him? And what other nation is so great as to have such righteous decrees and laws as this body of laws I am setting before you today?
“Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them fade from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them.”
Deuteronomy 4:5-9 NIV
High-stakes teaching and learning happen in Christian higher education much as they did in the wilderness before the Promised Land.
Deuteronomy opens a window for us to eavesdrop on an anguished leader, Moses, as he instructs his people in the last steps of a very long journey. Disappointed that he will die before reaching the destination, he urgently reinforces crucial lessons, which are broadly summarized in Chapter 4: remember all that God has done for you, be careful to obey him, and faithfully teach his ways to your children.
Even more pertinent to Christian higher ed is the why behind the instructions, evident in the “so that” and “because” (or “for”) clauses of verses 5-9. Aware that his learners face a future of challenges, temptations, and uncertainties that could derail their faith and threaten their existence, Moses gives them a vision of purpose that transcends themselves.
He explains not only that God wants them to be in right relationship with him (which they should surely know by this point in their journey), but why.
- God wants them to flourish. If they obey, they will enjoy the good life in the land he has promised and prepared for them (v. 5).
- God wants all the nations to know him. If his people remain in true friendship with him, his incomparable goodness and values will be on full display (v. 6-8).
- God wants this well-being and witness to last. This good life of purpose and influence can be lost and will not happen by accident. Each generation must accept responsibility to teach the next with diligence and resolve (v. 9).
Moses teaches with the urgent conviction that the life of his people depends on it.
With similar purpose, may we–every follower of Jesus but especially those in Christian higher ed–promote and protect a vision of the good life of flourishing and influence through friendship with God, both now and for generations to come.
VIBRANCY 