When Scripture says that the word is very near, it means that God’s commandments are not distant, unreachable, or hidden from His people. They are accessible, understandable, and immediately applicable. This phrase eliminates the excuse of ignorance or inability to know and follow God’s will.
“But the word is very near you, in your mouth and in your heart, that you may do it.” (Deuteronomy 30:14)
Moses emphasized that God’s law was not confined to heaven or the sea, requiring someone else to retrieve it. It was already delivered, taught, and internalized through the covenant, and was within reach for every Israelite who would listen and obey.
“For this commandment which I command you today is not too mysterious for you, nor is it far off.” (Deuteronomy 30:11)
The nearness of the word reflects God’s grace and intention. He is not a distant deity but one who communicates clearly and expects obedience. The heart and mouth language points to belief and confession, an inward reception and outward expression of God’s truth.
This verse is later quoted by Paul in Romans 10 to illustrate how salvation through Christ is also not distant or hard to attain. Just as the law was near to Israel, the gospel is near to all who will believe and confess.
