“Cursed shalt thou be when thou comest in, and cursed shalt thou be when thou goest out.”
This verse is part of a larger passage known as the blessings and curses of the Mosaic covenant. In Deuteronomy 28, Moses outlines the blessings:that would come upon the Israelites if they obeyed God’s commandments and the curses:that would befall them if they turned away from Him.
In verse 19 specifically, Moses describes one of the curses:that would befall the Israelites. The phrase “cursed shalt thou be when thou comest in, and cursed shalt thou be when thou goest out” is an expression of the totality of the curse. It signifies that wherever the Israelites go, in their coming and going, they would experience the consequences of their disobedience to God’s covenant.
Context:This verse emphasizes the comprehensive nature of the curse. It suggests that the Israelites would face difficulties and hardships in every aspect of their lives: in their homes, their work, their travels, and their interactions with others. The curse would not be limited to a specific time or place but would follow them wherever they went.
It is important to note that the curses:described in Deuteronomy 28 were specific to the Israelites under the Mosaic covenant and the context of their historical journey. These blessings and curses were part of God’s covenantal relationship with the Israelites, and they were intended to serve as both a warning and a motivation for obedience.
For Christians today, Deuteronomy 28:19 can be understood in a broader spiritual sense. While we are no longer under the Mosaic covenant, we can draw valuable lessons from these verses. They remind us of the importance of obedience:to God’s commands and the consequences that can arise from turning away from Him.
In the New Testament, Jesus Christ fulfilled the requirements of the law and inaugurated a new covenant through His sacrifice. Through faith in Him, believers are reconciled to God and receive the blessings:of salvation, which include forgiveness, eternal life, and a restored relationship with God. However, this does not negate the principle that obedience:to God’s commands is still important for believers. As followers of Christ, we are called to live in obedience to His teachings and to honor God in all areas of our lives.
In summary, Deuteronomy 28:19 conveys the idea that disobedience to God’s commands will result in negative consequences. While it was originally directed at the Israelites under the Mosaic covenant, it serves as a reminder for Christians today to walk in obedience:to God’s Word and live a life that honors Him.
