Deuteronomy 9:17

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Deuteronomy 1 Deuteronomy 2 Deuteronomy 3 Deuteronomy 4 Deuteronomy 5 Deuteronomy 6 Deuteronomy 7 Deuteronomy 8 Deuteronomy 9 Deuteronomy 10 Deuteronomy 11 Deuteronomy 12 Deuteronomy 13 Deuteronomy 14 Deuteronomy 15 Deuteronomy 16 Deuteronomy 17 Deuteronomy 18 Deuteronomy 19 Deuteronomy 20 Deuteronomy 21 Deuteronomy 22 Deuteronomy 23 Deuteronomy 24 Deuteronomy 25 Deuteronomy 26 Deuteronomy 27 Deuteronomy 28 Deuteronomy 29 Deuteronomy 30 Deuteronomy 31 Deuteronomy 32 Deuteronomy 33 Deuteronomy 34

Verse

Deuteronomy 9:1 Deuteronomy 9:2 Deuteronomy 9:3 Deuteronomy 9:4 Deuteronomy 9:5 Deuteronomy 9:6 Deuteronomy 9:7 Deuteronomy 9:8 Deuteronomy 9:9 Deuteronomy 9:10 Deuteronomy 9:11 Deuteronomy 9:12 Deuteronomy 9:13 Deuteronomy 9:14 Deuteronomy 9:15 Deuteronomy 9:16 Deuteronomy 9:17 Deuteronomy 9:18 Deuteronomy 9:19 Deuteronomy 9:20 Deuteronomy 9:21 Deuteronomy 9:22 Deuteronomy 9:23 Deuteronomy 9:24 Deuteronomy 9:25 Deuteronomy 9:26 Deuteronomy 9:27 Deuteronomy 9:28 Deuteronomy 9:29

Deuteronomy 9:17 KJV

And I took the two tables, and cast them out of my two hands, and brake them before your eyes.

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Deuteronomy 9:17 Bible Commentary

Commentary on Deuteronomy 9:17

Verse: "And I took the two tables, and cast them out of my two hands, and brake them before your eyes." (Deuteronomy 9:17)

Introduction

The verse in Deuteronomy 9:17 holds significant weight in the theological and historical context of Israel's journey with God. It narrates a moment of utmost importance where Moses, in a display of anger, breaks the tablets of the Law. This act can be understood as both a physical and spiritual commentary on Israel's transgressions and the seriousness of their covenant with God. Here we will explore insights from Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke to uncover layers of meaning in this verse.

Moses and the Tablets of the Law

Moses' act of breaking the tablets signifies a profound moment of frustration and disappointment. As noted by Matthew Henry, this event represents the culmination of Moses' intercessory role between God and the people of Israel. Moses, having just received the covenant from God, returns to find that the people have already turned to idolatry, making a golden calf as a representation of worship.

Albert Barnes emphasizes the symbolism of the tablets themselves. The Ten Commandments, engraved by the finger of God, symbolize the divine authority and holiness of God's law. When Moses broke the tablets, it was not merely an act of rage but also a prophetic act demonstrating what sin does to the covenant—the relationship between God and His people was shattered by their disobedience.

Adam Clarke elaborates on this idea by examining the gravity of the sin committed by the Israelites. He notes that the act of worshipping idols was a direct rebellion against God’s commands, thereby necessitating a strong and immediate response from Moses. Clarke interprets the breaking of the tablets as not only a sign of Moses’ anger but also as a visible indication of the people's broken covenant with God.

Theological Implications

The breaking of the tablets carries deep theological implications. It signifies the serious consequences of sin and disobedience. As Henry points out, this moment can be seen as a foreshadowing of the covenant’s need for renewal, which would be addressed later in Israel's history. The shattered tablets serve as a metaphor for the broken relationship between God and Israel, further reinforcing the aversion that God has towards sin.

Barnes additionally discusses the implications of brokenness—both for Moses and for the people. The act of breaking the tablets marked a pivotal point; it demonstrated that the covenant was not only damaged but required restoration. This moment prompts theological reflection on the nature of sin and the grace required for reconciliation.

On the other hand, Clarke highlights that the broken tablets do not signify the end of God's relationship with Israel, but rather the beginning of a new understanding of the covenant. In breaking the tablets, Moses calls attention to the need for repentance and the grace necessary to restore the covenant bond.

Practical Applications

This verse, rich in meaning, provides valuable lessons for pastors, theologians, and scholars alike:

  • Understanding Human Frailty: The quick turn of the Israelites from faithful worship to idolatry serves as a reminder of human weakness. This emphasizes the need for vigilance in faith and devotion.
  • The Importance of Leadership: Moses’ role as an intercessor highlights the critical function of spiritual leaders in guiding their communities towards faithfulness. Leaders must be aware of their influence on the faithfulness of their congregations.
  • The Need for Restoration: The brokenness depicted in this verse illustrates that while sin fractures relationships, there is always the possibility for restoration through sincere repentance and God’s grace.
  • Reflecting on Divine Law: The Holiness of God's law, represented by the tablets, should evoke a deeper respect for God's commandments. The prompt to evaluate how one honors God’s word is paramount.
  • Idolatry in Modern Context: The struggles against idolatry are not confined to the past. Reflecting on modern forms of idolatry can help in understanding what contemporary 'golden calves' exist, urging communities towards heartfelt worship.

Conclusion

Deuteronomy 9:17 serves as a pivotal reminder of the seriousness of sin and the need for restoration and renewal of our covenant relationship with God. The insights from Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke elucidate the multiplicity of meanings in this act of breaking the tablets—from a moment of anger to a stark illustration of Israel's need for grace. The theological and practical applications derived from it remain relevant today, urging us to reflect on our own faithfulness and relationship with God.

Deuteronomy 9 (KJV) Verse Selection

Deuteronomy 9:1 Deuteronomy 9:2 Deuteronomy 9:3 Deuteronomy 9:4 Deuteronomy 9:5 Deuteronomy 9:6 Deuteronomy 9:7 Deuteronomy 9:8 Deuteronomy 9:9 Deuteronomy 9:10 Deuteronomy 9:11 Deuteronomy 9:12 Deuteronomy 9:13 Deuteronomy 9:14 Deuteronomy 9:15 Deuteronomy 9:16 Deuteronomy 9:17 Deuteronomy 9:18 Deuteronomy 9:19 Deuteronomy 9:20 Deuteronomy 9:21 Deuteronomy 9:22 Deuteronomy 9:23 Deuteronomy 9:24 Deuteronomy 9:25 Deuteronomy 9:26 Deuteronomy 9:27 Deuteronomy 9:28 Deuteronomy 9:29

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