“Only the LORD had a delight in thy fathers to love them, and he chose their seed after them, even you above all people, as it is this day.”
Context: The book of Deuteronomy is part of the Pentateuch, the first five books of the Bible attributed to Moses. It contains Moses’ speeches to the Israelites, reminding them of God’s covenant, laws, and their history before entering the Promised Land.
Historical background: In this verse, Moses addresses the Israelites, emphasizing God’s unique relationship with their forefathers, particularly Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. He highlights God’s love for their ancestors and the selection of their descendants as a chosen people.
God’s delight and love: The verse begins by acknowledging that only the LORD had a delight in the Israelites’ fathers, expressing God’s unique affection and favor toward them. Despite their imperfections and shortcomings, God chose to love and bless the patriarchs, extending His grace to future generations.
God’s choice: The verse continues by highlighting that God chose the descendants of the forefathers, the Israelites, above all other people. This selection was not based on their own merit or superiority but was solely an act of God’s sovereign will and divine purpose. God’s choice of the Israelites was meant to fulfill His promises and bring about His plan of redemption for all humanity.
Relevance for the Israelites: Moses emphasizes that God’s choice of the Israelites remains relevant “as it is this day.” This reminder underscores the continuity of God’s covenant and the ongoing responsibility of the Israelites to live in faithful obedience and fulfill their role as a chosen people.
Application for believers today: While Deuteronomy 10:15 specifically addresses the Israelites, there are broader principles applicable to believers today. It serves as a reminder of God’s sovereignty, His love for His people, and His purposeful selection. Just as God chose the Israelites, believers today can find comfort and assurance in knowing that God has chosen them through faith in Jesus Christ (Ephesians 1:4-5). This should motivate believers to live in gratitude, obedience, and a desire to fulfill God’s purposes in their lives.
In conclusion, Deuteronomy 10:15 highlights God’s delight and love for the Israelites’ forefathers, His choice of the Israelites as a chosen people, and the ongoing relevance of God’s covenant. While the verse specifically addresses the Israelites, its principles extend to believers today, reminding them of God’s sovereignty and their responsibility to live in faithful obedience.
