What does God's response in Deuteronomy 5:28 reveal about His expectations for obedience? Setting the scene When Israel heard God’s voice thunder from Sinai, they begged Moses to stand between them and the Almighty. Moses relayed their plea, and the Lord answered. Key verse “‘I have heard the words that this people have spoken to you; they have spoken well in all that they have said.’” (Deuteronomy 5:28) Immediate observations • God listens attentively: “I have heard.” • He affirms their response: “They have spoken well.” • His approval concerns their recognition of His holiness and their need for a mediator. What God’s response reveals about His expectations for obedience • Obedience begins with rightly fearing Him. Their request grew out of awe; God calls that “well.” • Words alone are not enough—He wants the heart behind them (v. 29 follows: “If only they had such a heart to fear Me and to keep all My commandments always…”). • Continuous obedience is expected: “always,” not sporadically. • Blessing is tied to obedience: “so that it might be well with them and their children forever” (v. 29). • God evaluates obedience at the level of motive, not merely action. God’s expectations unpacked 1. A reverent heart – Fear of the Lord that acknowledges His majesty (Proverbs 9:10). 2. Whole-life adherence – “Keep all My commandments always” (Deuteronomy 5:29). 3. Love-driven loyalty – “You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart” (Deuteronomy 6:5). 4. Blessing through obedience – Obedience brings covenant well-being (Deuteronomy 30:15-16). Taking it to heart today • Cultivate awe: regularly remember His holiness. • Let obedience flow from love, not fear of punishment (John 14:15). • Aim for consistency: small daily choices form a lifetime of faithfulness. • Teach the next generation; God links our obedience to their blessing (Deuteronomy 6:6-7). Supporting Scriptures • 1 Samuel 15:22 – “Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice.” • James 1:22 – “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only.” • Exodus 19:5 – “If you will indeed obey My voice and keep My covenant, you will be My treasured possession.” • Psalm 128:1 – “Blessed are all who fear the LORD, who walk in His ways.” |
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