Deuteronomy 15:5

if only you obey the LORD your God and are careful to follow all these commandments I am giving you today.

Study Bible

if only you obey the LORD your God
This phrase emphasizes the conditional nature of God's promises to Israel. Obedience to God is a central theme throughout Deuteronomy, reflecting the covenant relationship between God and His people. The Hebrew word for "obey" implies listening with the intent to act. This obedience is not merely external compliance but involves a heartfelt commitment to God's will. The call to obedience is echoed in other parts of Scripture, such as in 1 Samuel 15:22, where obedience is valued over sacrifice. The phrase also foreshadows the New Testament teaching of Jesus, who emphasized love and obedience to God as the greatest commandments (Matthew 22:37-40).

and are careful to follow
This part of the verse underscores the importance of diligence in observing God's laws. The Hebrew term for "careful" suggests a meticulous and intentional effort to adhere to God's instructions. This reflects the broader biblical principle that faithfulness requires vigilance and perseverance. The call to be careful is reminiscent of Joshua 1:7, where Joshua is instructed to be strong and very courageous, being careful to obey all the law. This carefulness is a safeguard against the distractions and temptations that could lead Israel away from God.

all these commandments
The commandments refer to the laws given by God through Moses, which are detailed throughout the book of Deuteronomy. These laws cover various aspects of life, including worship, social justice, and personal conduct. They are designed to set Israel apart as a holy nation and to reflect God's character. The comprehensive nature of "all these commandments" indicates that partial obedience is insufficient; God requires complete adherence. This is consistent with James 2:10, which states that whoever keeps the whole law but stumbles at one point is guilty of breaking all of it.

I am giving you today
This phrase highlights the immediacy and relevance of God's commandments. The use of "today" suggests that the instructions are not just historical but are meant to be applied in the present context of the Israelites' lives. It also implies a sense of urgency and the need for immediate action. The giving of the law is a divine initiative, emphasizing that these commandments are not human inventions but are given by God Himself. This is a reminder of the ongoing nature of God's covenant, which requires continual renewal and commitment from each generation.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The author of Deuteronomy, delivering God's laws and commandments to the Israelites.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God, receiving the laws and commandments as they prepare to enter the Promised Land.

3. Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which God promised to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

4. Mount Sinai
The place where Moses received the Ten Commandments and other laws from God.

5. Covenant
The agreement between God and the Israelites, where they are to follow His commandments in return for His blessings.

Teaching Points

Obedience as a Condition for Blessing
The verse highlights that God's blessings are contingent upon obedience. This principle is timeless and applies to believers today.

The Importance of Careful Obedience
The phrase "careful to follow" suggests diligence and intentionality in obeying God's commandments. Believers are called to be meticulous in their walk with God.

Covenant Relationship
The verse underscores the covenant relationship between God and His people, where obedience is a response to God's faithfulness and love.

Holistic Obedience
Obedience is not selective but encompasses all of God's commandments. Believers are encouraged to embrace the entirety of God's word.

Obedience as Worship
Following God's commandments is an act of worship and reverence, reflecting a heart aligned with God's will.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of obedience in Deuteronomy 15:5 relate to the covenant relationship between God and the Israelites?

2. In what ways can we be "careful to follow" God's commandments in our daily lives?

3. How do the blessings associated with obedience in Deuteronomy 15:5 compare to the promises found in the New Testament?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to ensure that our obedience to God is holistic and not selective?

5. How can we view our obedience to God's commandments as an act of worship in our modern context?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 19:5-6
This passage emphasizes the covenant relationship between God and Israel, highlighting the importance of obedience to God's commandments.

Leviticus 26:3-13
These verses outline the blessings that come with obedience to God's laws, similar to the promises in Deuteronomy.

Joshua 1:7-8
Joshua is instructed to be strong and courageous, carefully obeying the law given through Moses, which echoes the call for obedience in Deuteronomy 15:5.

John 14:15
Jesus speaks about the importance of keeping His commandments as a demonstration of love for Him, connecting the Old Testament call for obedience to the New Testament.

James 1:22-25
This passage encourages believers to be doers of the word, not just hearers, reinforcing the importance of obedience to God's commands.