Commentary on Deuteronomy 10:17

Deuteronomy 10:17 states: "For the Lord your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, a great God, a mighty, and a terrible, which regardeth not persons, nor taketh reward." This verse encapsulates significant theological truths about the nature of God and His relationship with humanity, especially within the context of Israel’s covenant with Him.

The Greatness of God

1. The Supremacy of God: This verse begins with an unequivocal declaration of God's supremacy. Matthew Henry emphasizes that God is "God of gods" indicating that no other deities can compare to Him. This is an assertion rooted in monotheistic principles, affirming the unique position of God in contrast to the false gods of surrounding nations.

2. The Majestic Attributes: The description of God as "great," "mighty," and "terrible" emphasizes His unparalleled power and holiness. Albert Barnes suggests that these attributes remind the people of Israel that they are in relationship with a God who is sovereign over all creation. His greatness is not only to be admired but also serves as a call to reverence among His people.

God’s Impartiality

3. No Respect of Persons: The text also highlights that God "regardeth not persons." Adam Clarke interprets this as God’s impartiality in judgment and His equal treatment of all, regardless of socio-economic status, ethnicity, or any other human distinction. This is a foundational principle for understanding God’s justice and grace.

4. The Absence of Bribery: The phrase "nor taketh reward" reinforces the notion that God cannot be swayed by human actions or offerings. Both Clarke and Henry point out that this serves to remind Israel (and, by extension, all followers of God) that their relationship is based on covenant loyalty rather than transactional exchanges. God's love and favor cannot be bought.

Theological Implications

5. Understanding God’s Nature: The portrayal of God in this verse invites a deeper reflection on His nature. As a "God of gods," He establishes the true basis of worship — it's not about rituals and offerings, but about a heart aligned with His character. This has implications for sermon preparation and teaching in congregations, encouraging deeper theological inquiry into who God is.

6. Covenant Relationship: The context of Deuteronomy highlights the covenant relationship between God and Israel. Pastors and theologians can draw attention to how God's greatness and impartiality underscore the seriousness of living in a covenantal relationship. This relationship demands faithfulness and integrity on the part of His people.

Practical Applications

7. Trust in God’s Character: Believers are called to trust in God’s character as depicted in this verse. When faced with injustice or partiality in society, they can find solace in the knowledge that God sees all and judges fairly. This can be an important pastoral message of hope for congregations experiencing societal struggles.

8. Accountability in Leadership: For church leaders, this passage serves as a reminder of the seriousness of their role. Just as God is impartial, leaders must strive to embody fairness and integrity in their dealings with members of the congregation. This is especially pertinent in discussions about church governance and ethical leadership.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Deuteronomy 10:17 provides a profound understanding of God's nature and character. By combining insights from respected commentaries, we affirm that God stands sovereign and incomparable, requiring of His people not just rituals, but heartfelt devotion and integrity. This understanding challenges pastors, students, theologians, and scholars alike to reflect, teach, and model a relationship with God that is anchored in His greatness and His impartiality.