“If thy brother, the son of thy mother, or thy son, or thy daughter, or the wife of thy bosom, or thy friend, which is as thine own soul, entice thee secretly, saying, Let us go and serve other gods, which thou hast not known, thou, nor thy fathers;”
Context: Deuteronomy is the fifth book of the Bible and is attributed to Moses. It contains his final instructions to the Israelites before they enter the Promised Land. Deuteronomy 13 deals with the issue of false prophets and the temptation to worship other gods.
Warning against False Worship: In this verse, Moses warns the Israelites about the dangers of being enticed by close family members or friends to serve other gods. It emphasizes the seriousness of this offense by mentioning specific relationships: brother, son, daughter, wife, and friend. The Israelites were to remain loyal to the one true God they had known, and not be led astray by the worship of foreign gods.
The Significance of Loyalty: The verse underscores the importance of loyalty and faithfulness to God. It reveals the potential vulnerability of the Israelites to be influenced by those closest to them. By mentioning family members and friends, Moses highlights the challenge of remaining steadfast in the face of personal relationships and social pressure.
Identifying False Worship: This verse teaches the Israelites to discern and recognize false worship. It warns against any attempts to introduce foreign gods into their lives, which were contrary to the commandments and the covenant they had made with God. It emphasizes the need for discernment and a commitment to truth, even when it comes from trusted individuals.
Application to Believers Today: Though this verse was specifically addressed to the Israelites of that time, its underlying principle remains relevant for believers today. It serves as a reminder to stay committed to God and not be swayed by false teachings or idolatrous practices. Christians are called to be discerning and test everything against the truth of God’s Word.
Promoting Spiritual Discernment: Deuteronomy 13:6 highlights the importance of spiritual discernment in our relationships. While we should love and respect our family and friends, we must prioritize our loyalty to God and His truth. It encourages us to be cautious and vigilant in identifying any attempts to lead us away from the worship of the one true God.
Remember to read the surrounding verses and the entire chapter of Deuteronomy 13 for a comprehensive understanding of the context and message conveyed in this passage.
