“When thou shalt hearken to the voice of the Lord thy God, to keep all his commandments which I command thee this day, to do that which is right in the eyes of the Lord thy God.”
Context:Deuteronomy is the fifth book of the Old Testament and is attributed to Moses. It primarily consists of his final addresses to the Israelites before they entered the Promised Land. In this chapter, Moses warns the people about false prophets who would attempt to lead them astray from the true worship of God.
The Importance of Listening:The verse begins with the phrase “When thou shalt hearken to the voice of the Lord thy God.” This highlights the significance of actively listening and obeying God’s commands. It emphasizes the need for obedience and attentiveness to God’s instructions.
Obeying God’s Commandments:The verse further emphasizes the importance of keeping all of God’s commandments. It underscores the Israelites’ responsibility to follow the laws and regulations given to them by God. This principle extends to believers today, as we are also called to live in obedience to God’s commandments.
Doing What is Right:The verse concludes by stating, “to do that which is right in the eyes of the Lord thy God.” This emphasizes the importance of moral and ethical conduct. It reminds the Israelites (and us) that obedience to God involves not only following His commandments but also aligning our actions with His righteous standards.
Application for Believers:While Deuteronomy was written specifically for the Israelites, its principles have enduring relevance. As believers, we are called to listen to God’s voice through His Word, the Bible, and the leading of the Holy Spirit. We are to keep His commandments, which are now fulfilled in Christ’s teachings, and live in a manner that aligns with His righteousness.
Discernment and Avoiding False Teachings:The context of this verse warns against false prophets who may arise, seeking to lead the people away from true worship and obedience to God. It highlights the importance of discernment and the need to test the teachings we encounter against the truth of God’s Word.
In summary, Deuteronomy 13:18 underscores the importance of listening to God’s voice, obeying His commandments, and doing what is right in His eyes. It reminds believers of their responsibility to live in obedience and discernment, avoiding false teachings that may lead them astray from the true worship of God.
