Commentary on Deuteronomy 28:43
Text of the Verse: "The stranger that is within thee shall get up above thee very high; and thou shalt come down very low."
Deuteronomy 28 is part of the larger section known as the Covenant Blessings and Curses, in which Moses lays out the blessings that will come from obedience to God and the curses that will ensue from disobedience. Deuteronomy 28:43 belongs to the latter category, highlighting the consequences of turning away from God’s commands.
Summary of Public Domain Commentaries
Matthew Henry's Commentary
Matthew Henry emphasizes that this verse highlights the humiliation and abasement that will come upon Israel as a result of their unfaithfulness. He elaborates on the idea that the "stranger" or foreigner who resides among them will rise to a position of prominence and authority, illustrating a complete reversal of fortunes. The height to which the "stranger" ascends symbolizes the loss of dignity and autonomy for the Israelites who disregard God’s laws.
- Foreign Oppression: The verse serves as a warning about the dangers of losing a unique identity before God, leading to oppression from those who are not part of His covenant.
- Spiritual Application: It further illustrates a spiritual principle: when a people forsake God, they often find themselves under the rule of those who do not have God-fearing principles, thereby suffering both materially and spiritually.
Albert Barnes' Notes on the Bible
Barnes highlights that the "stranger" represents not just aliens in a geographical sense but those who come from outside of Israel’s covenant community. The text reminds readers of God’s sovereignty and how His people, due to their rebellion, can experience the subjugation that comes from turning away from divine guidance.
- Judgment and Reversal: The ascent of the stranger reflects God's judgment against the covenant people, suggesting that in their failure to adhere to God’s commandments, they promote the rise of those opposed to their faith.
- Lessons for the Church: For contemporary believers, this serves as a stark reminder of the importance of faithfulness in our walk with God, lest we too become subject to influences outside of our faith and practice.
Adam Clarke's Commentary
Clarke explores the deeper implications of this verse, noting that it indicates a social and economic downturn for Israel. The "stranger" thriving at the expense of God's people manifests a divine principle of justice, where blessings are linked with adherence to God’s law.
- Historical Context: Clarke notes historical instances when Israel, through disobedience, faced similar repercussions, resulting in non-Israelites gaining power and prominence over them.
- Call to Reflection: He encourages readers to reflect on their own lives and communities, probing the condition of their hearts and their alignment with God’s word as this is critically linked to their prosperity and social standing.
Theological Implications
This verse serves as a powerful reminder that God’s covenant is not to be taken lightly. The dramatic consequences outlined in this passage are not just historical but hold ongoing theological implications for the church today.
- Covenant Responsibility: Believers are driven to understand their responsibility within the new covenant established through Christ, which calls not only for faith but also a commitment to live in accordance to God’s ways.
- Consequences of Sin: Just as Israel faced curses for disobedience, modern believers are challenged to heed the warnings found in scripture, recognizing that disobedience can have far-reaching consequences in both personal and communal contexts.
Practical Applications
Pastors, theologians, and laypeople alike can draw application from this profound verse. It challenges each reader to assess their relationship with God and ensures its authenticity. As such, the implications of this passage are manifold:
- Self-Examination: Regular introspection on personal spiritual health can prevent the kinds of disobedience that lead to societal collapse in faith.
- Community Engagement: The church is called to be a light in the world, resisting the influence of "strangers"—those whose values may oppose the gospel.
- Commitment to Obedience: Emphasizing a commitment to scripture and obedience, nurturing a faith community that upholds God’s commandments is essential.
Conclusion
Deuteronomy 28:43 is a sobering reminder of the seriousness of covenantal relationships with God. Collectively, the comments from Henry, Barnes, and Clarke urge modern readers to take heed of the historical lessons illustrated in scripture. The verse serves as a powerful admonition that warns against complacency in faith and reminds believers of the divine principles that govern blessings and curses.
