“Ye shall not add unto the word which I command you, neither shall ye diminish ought from it, that ye may keep the commandments of the LORD your God which I command you.”
Context:The book of Deuteronomy is part of the Pentateuch, the first five books of the Old Testament, often attributed to Moses. In Deuteronomy, Moses delivers his farewell address to the Israelites, recapping their journey, renewing God’s covenant, and providing instructions for their future as they prepare to enter the Promised Land.
Prohibition against adding or diminishing:In Deuteronomy 4:2, Moses instructs the people not to add or subtract anything from the commandments God has given them. This command emphasises the importance of preserving the integrity of God’s Word. It serves as a reminder to the Israelites and to us today that God’s instructions are complete and should not be altered.
Importance of keeping the commandments:Moses states that the reason for not adding or diminishing from God’s Word is so that the people may keep the commandments of the LORD their God. Obedience to God’s commandments was crucial for the Israelites to experience God’s blessings and maintain their relationship with Him. It demonstrates their devotion and trust in God.
Application for believers today:Although Deuteronomy was written specifically for the Israelites, this verse holds a timeless principle for believers today. Christians are called to respect the integrity and authority of God’s Word. We should not add or subtract from the teachings and commands found in the Bible. It is important to approach Scripture with reverence, recognising it as God’s inspired Word.
Avoiding legalism and licence:While it is important to adhere to God’s commandments, it is also crucial to understand the balance between legalism and licence. Legalism involves adding man-made rules or requirements to God’s Word, while licence involves disregarding or diluting God’s commandments. Both extremes distort the true intent of Scripture. The goal is to approach the Bible with a heart that seeks to understand and apply its principles while guided by the Holy Spirit.
Seeking guidance and understanding:The verse in question serves as a reminder to approach the Bible with humility and seek God’s guidance and understanding through prayer, study, and the work of the Holy Spirit. As we study Scripture, we should strive to grasp its intended meaning and apply it to our lives in a manner consistent with God’s principles of love, justice, and mercy.
In summary, Deuteronomy 4:2 reminds us of the importance of preserving the integrity of God’s Word and not adding or diminishing from it. It emphasises the significance of keeping God’s commandments, both for the Israelites of old and for believers today. May we approach the Bible with reverence, seeking to understand and apply its teachings with the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
