“For I know that after my death ye will utterly corrupt yourselves, and turn aside from the way which I have commanded you; and evil will befall you in the latter days; because ye will do evil in the sight of the LORD, to provoke him to anger through the work of your hands.”
Context and Background: Deuteronomy is the fifth book of the Old Testament and is attributed to Moses. It contains his final instructions to the Israelites before they enter the Promised Land. In chapter 31, Moses is nearing the end of his life and is preparing to pass the leadership to Joshua. In this verse, Moses delivers a prophetic warning to the people of Israel.
Corrupting Themselves and Turning Aside: Moses begins by expressing his knowledge of the Israelites’ future behavior. He predicts that they will “utterly corrupt themselves” and “turn aside from the way” that God had commanded them. This implies a departure from God’s laws, commandments, and the covenant He made with them at Mount Sinai.
Consequences of Turning Away: Moses warns that turning away from God’s commandments will result in negative consequences. He says, “evil will befall you in the latter days.” This suggests that the Israelites will face adversity, hardship, and potentially calamity as a result of their disobedience. The phrase “latter days” could refer to the distant future beyond Moses’ lifetime.
Provoke God to Anger: Moses further explains that the Israelites will do evil in the sight of the Lord, provoking His anger. Their actions, specifically the “work of your hands,” will incite God’s displeasure and anger. This implies that their idolatry, wickedness, or rebellion will cause them to stray from the path of righteousness, resulting in divine judgment.
Lessons and Application:
- Importance of Obedience: The verse highlights the significance of obeying God’s commandments and staying true to His ways. Disobedience and turning away from His instructions can lead to dire consequences.
- God’s Foreknowledge: The verse demonstrates that God has foreknowledge of human actions and their consequences. He knows the choices people will make and the impact those choices will have on their lives.
- Accountability: The passage emphasizes personal and collective responsibility. The Israelites are accountable for their actions, and their choices will have consequences.
- God’s Righteousness and Judgment: The verse illustrates God’s righteousness and His response to disobedience. He will not tolerate evil and idolatry but will respond with judgment.
Overall, Deuteronomy 31:29 serves as a warning against turning away from God’s commandments and the potential consequences that can follow. It reminds us of the importance of obedience and the righteousness of God’s judgment.
