“To keep the commandments of the Lord, and his statutes, which I command thee this day for thy good?”
Context:Deuteronomy is the fifth book of the Old Testament and contains the speeches of Moses to the Israelites before they enter the Promised Land. In this particular passage, Moses is reminding the people of Israel about their covenant with God and the importance of keeping His commandments and statutes.
Importance of Keeping God’s Commandments:The verse emphasises the significance of obeying the commandments of the Lord. God’s commandments were not given arbitrarily but for the benefit and well-being of His people. By following His statutes, the Israelites would experience blessings and favour from God.
God’s Commandments and Statutes:The reference to “the commandments of the Lord” and “his statutes” encompasses the entirety of God’s instructions given to the Israelites through Moses. This includes the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:1-17), as well as other laws and regulations outlined in the books of Exodus, Leviticus, and Numbers. God’s commandments covered various aspects of life, including worship, morality, justice, and social relationships.
Obedience for Our Good:Moses reminds the Israelites that God’s commandments are not burdensome but are given for their good. Obedience to God’s laws leads to a life of order, righteousness, and harmony. When people follow God’s ways, they experience blessings and protection. By adhering to God’s commandments, the Israelites would demonstrate their love and commitment to Him.
Application for Believers Today:Although the verse was originally addressed to the Israelites, its principles are applicable to believers today. As Christians, we are called to follow the commandments of Jesus Christ (John 14:15). Jesus summarised the commandments by emphasising the importance of loving God and loving one’s neighbour (Matthew 22:36-40). By living according to God’s principles, we experience His blessings, grow in faith, and demonstrate our love for Him.
Relationship between God’s Law and Grace:It is essential to understand that while keeping God’s commandments is important, it does not lead to salvation by works alone. The New Testament teaches that we are saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ (Ephesians 2:8-9). However, obedience to God’s commandments becomes an expression of our love for Him and our desire to live a life pleasing to Him (John 14:21).
In conclusion, Deuteronomy 10:13 emphasises the importance of keeping God’s commandments and statutes. Obedience to God’s instructions leads to blessings and demonstrates our love and commitment to Him. As believers, we are called to follow the commandments of Jesus Christ and live a life that reflects our faith in Him.
