Deuteronomy 13:10

Stone him to death for trying to turn you away from the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery.

Study Bible

Stone him to death
The phrase "stone him to death" reflects the severe consequence for leading others away from the worship of Yahweh, the one true God. In the Hebrew context, stoning was a communal act, symbolizing the collective responsibility of the community to uphold God's covenant. The Hebrew word for "stone" is "סָקַל" (sakal), which indicates a method of execution that was both a deterrent and a means of purging evil from among the people. This harsh penalty underscores the seriousness with which idolatry and apostasy were viewed in ancient Israel, as they threatened the very fabric of the covenant community.

because he has tried to turn you away
This phrase highlights the intent behind the punishment. The Hebrew root "סוּר" (sur) means to turn aside or lead astray. The act of turning someone away from God was seen as a direct attack on the covenant relationship between God and His people. It was not merely a personal sin but a communal threat, as it could lead others into idolatry and away from the blessings of the covenant.

from the LORD your God
The use of "LORD" in all capitals in the BSB indicates the translation of the divine name "YHWH" (Yahweh), the personal name of God revealed to Moses. This emphasizes the personal relationship between God and Israel. The phrase "your God" reinforces the covenantal bond, reminding the Israelites of their unique identity as God's chosen people. It is a call to loyalty and faithfulness to the One who has revealed Himself and established a covenant with them.

who brought you out of the land of Egypt
This phrase serves as a reminder of God's redemptive act in history. The Hebrew word "יָצָא" (yatsa) means to bring out or deliver. The exodus from Egypt is the foundational event in Israel's history, symbolizing God's power and faithfulness. It is a call to remember God's past deliverance as a basis for present obedience. The historical context of the exodus is central to Israel's identity and serves as a continual reminder of God's grace and sovereignty.

out of the house of slavery
The term "house of slavery" refers to the oppressive conditions the Israelites experienced in Egypt. The Hebrew word "עֲבֹדָה" (avodah) means labor or service, often with the connotation of bondage. This phrase underscores the transformation from slavery to freedom, a key theme in the biblical narrative. It serves as a powerful reminder of God's liberating power and the new life He offers. The Israelites are called to live in the freedom God has provided, which includes exclusive worship of Him alone.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, who were delivered from slavery in Egypt.

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

4. False Prophets or Dreamers
Individuals who attempt to lead the Israelites away from worshiping the true God.

5. The LORD (Yahweh)
The one true God who delivered Israel from Egypt and established His covenant with them.

Teaching Points

The Seriousness of Idolatry
Idolatry is a grave sin that leads people away from God. The severe punishment underscores the importance of remaining faithful to God alone.

Community Responsibility
The community is responsible for maintaining purity and faithfulness to God. This involves taking action against those who lead others astray.

The Role of Discernment
Believers must be discerning and vigilant against false teachings and influences that can lead them away from God.

The Importance of Covenant Faithfulness
God's deliverance from Egypt is a reminder of His faithfulness, and in return, His people are called to be faithful to Him.

The Call to Uphold God's Standards
Upholding God's standards may require difficult decisions, but it is essential for the spiritual health of the community.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the context of Deuteronomy 13:10 help us understand the seriousness of idolatry in the eyes of God?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of community responsibility in maintaining doctrinal purity in the church today?

3. How can we develop discernment to recognize and resist false teachings in our own lives?

4. What are some modern-day "idols" that can lead us away from our faithfulness to God, and how can we guard against them?

5. How does the concept of covenant faithfulness in Deuteronomy 13:10 relate to the New Testament teachings on faithfulness to Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 20:2-3
This passage reiterates the importance of worshiping only the LORD, who delivered Israel from Egypt, emphasizing the first commandment.

Matthew 7:15-20
Jesus warns about false prophets, highlighting the need for discernment and the consequences of being led astray.

1 Corinthians 5:13
Paul instructs the church to remove the wicked person from among them, echoing the need for purity within the community.

Galatians 1:8-9
Paul warns against accepting any gospel other than the one he preached, stressing the importance of adhering to true doctrine.