Commentary on Deuteronomy 28:68
Deuteronomy 28:68 states:
"And the LORD shall bring thee into Egypt again with ships, by the way whereof I spake unto thee: Thou shalt see it no more again: and there ye shall be sold unto your enemies for bondmen and bondwomen, and no man shall buy you."
Introduction
This verse forms part of the larger context of Deuteronomy 28, which details the blessings and curses associated with obedience and disobedience to God’s commandments. In particular, verse 68 represents one of the most potent and sobering conclusions in the chapter, illustrating the dire consequences of unfaithfulness to God's covenant.
Theological Significance
Understanding this verse requires us to explore its implications for Israel's relationship with God and its historical consequences. The prophetic foresight of returning to Egypt signifies a reversal of the Exodus and represents a profound judgment from God.
Insights from Commentators
Matthew Henry
Matthew Henry emphasizes the gravity of the curses outlined in this chapter. He notes that Israel's disobedience would lead to their subjugation and captivity. The reference to Egypt here symbolizes a place of bondage, which once was a source of deliverance for Israel. Henry points out that God's promise of returning to Egypt indicates a total abandonment of the people, allowing them to fall into the very bondage from which they were liberated.
Albert Barnes
Albert Barnes provides additional insight into the use of ships to return to Egypt. He suggests that the mention of ships is especially poignant as it signifies a forced return rather than a free passage. It illustrates the humiliation of being sold into slavery, where no one would desire to redeem the captives. In Barnes’ view, this serves as a dire warning of the consequences of apostasy and infidelity to God’s covenant.
Adam Clarke
Adam Clarke offers a historical perspective on this verse, discussing the reality of the Babylonian exile as a fulfillment of this prophecy. Clarke highlights that the Israelites would not only return to Egypt in a figurative sense but would also experience a type of bondage that would echo their past struggles. He emphasizes the sadness of this return and the sadness it depicts in losing the inheritance of the land promised by God.
Verse Analysis
- “The LORD shall bring thee into Egypt again”: This denotes a divine action, emphasizing that it is God who brings judgment upon His people. Their sinful choices invite divine retribution.
- “with ships”: The mode of transport signifies a forced journey into captivity. The ships symbolize trade and commerce but are also indicative of military and governmental control.
- “by the way whereof I spake unto thee”: This phrase indicates that the path to Egypt is not just physical but also spiritual. Henry notes that they would not be able to return to their land, indicating a profound separation from the promised blessings.
- “Thou shalt see it no more again”: The loss of their homeland signifies not only physical displacement but also a loss of identity and purpose as God's chosen people.
- “sold unto your enemies for bondmen and bondwomen”: The ultimate fate of the Israelites demonstrates their degradation; once chosen as God's people, they are reduced to servitude among their enemies, showing the extent of their punishment.
- “no man shall buy you”: This final line illustrates a complete loss of agency and value. In prison, there would be no hope of rescue, underscoring the totality of their despair.
Historical Context
The verse reflects a tumultuous period for Israel. The backdrop of historical oppression and subsequent liberation provides a potent contrast to the prophesied return to bondage. The Israelites had witnessed God’s mighty hand deliver them from Egypt, yet their ongoing disobedience deserved severe consequences.
Application for Today
The themes found within Deuteronomy 28:68 resonate profoundly in contemporary theological discussions. For pastors, students, and theologians, this verse serves as a stark reminder of the gravity of sin and the pursuit of holiness.
- Awareness of Consequences: The reminder that one’s actions have consequences can lead both leaders and learners toward a more reflective and intuitive approach to faith and stewardship.
- Value of Redemption: This verse ultimately serves to highlight the need for redemption, graciously offered through Jesus Christ, for all who turn from sin.
- Importance of Obedience: Understanding the depth of judgment in this verse drives home the importance of obedience to God's commandments.
Conclusion
Deuteronomy 28:68 serves as both a historical warning and a spiritual exhortation. The combined insights of Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke elucidate the multi-faceted implications of this powerful passage. For modern readers, it acts as a sobering call to examine one's own covenant relationship with God and the importance of fidelity to His word.
