Deuteronomy 7:10

And repayeth them that hate him to their face, to destroy them: he will not be slack to him that hateth him, he will repay him to his face.

Deuteronomy 7:10 (KJV)

Context

Deuteronomy records Moses’ final words to Israel before they entered the Promised Land. In this chapter he reminds them of their covenant with God and the results of faithfulness or rebellion. The verse follows a promise of God’s love to those who obey Him, and now it turns to those who hate Him.

Meaning

God repays haters “to their face,” meaning openly and directly, not in secret. He will not be “slack,” or slow, in bringing judgment. Some Jewish teachers, including Onkelos and Jarchi, understood this as punishment in their lifetime. Others saw it as God confronting bold sinners, like the men of Sodom (Genesis 13:13). Either way, God’s justice is certain and personal. He will not tolerate unrepentant wickedness. This judgment is not hidden or secret; it is a direct and personal confrontation with the sinner.

Biblical connections

This warning is linked to the next verse, Deuteronomy 7:11, which calls Israel to keep God’s commandments. Hatred of God is not only open rebellion; it also includes idolatry and a heart set against Him. The carnal mind is enmity against God. Those who hate Him cannot harm Him, but they ruin themselves. God’s response to hatred reveals His justice and righteous judgment, holding people accountable for their actions.

Application

Today, this verse reminds us that God’s justice is not delayed forever. A heart that rejects Him invites accountability. It also calls us to examine our own loyalty, turning from anything that opposes God and choosing wholehearted obedience. The warning of judgment is linked to a call for obedience, urging us to keep His commandments.

Reflection

God’s judgment is real, but His mercy is also near. The same God who repays haters offers love to those who seek Him. Let this warning lead us to reverence, not fear, and to a deeper trust in His righteous ways.