Deuteronomy 13:2

and if the sign or wonder he has spoken to you comes about, but he says, "Let us follow other gods (which you have not known) and let us worship them,"

Study Bible

and if the sign or wonder
The phrase "sign or wonder" in Hebrew is "אוֹת אוֹ מוֹפֵת" (oth o mopheth). In the biblical context, a "sign" (oth) often refers to a miraculous event or symbol that points to a divine message or truth. A "wonder" (mopheth) is an extraordinary event that evokes awe and amazement, often used to demonstrate God's power. Historically, signs and wonders were used by God to validate His messengers, such as Moses in Egypt. However, this verse warns that not all signs and wonders are from God, emphasizing the need for discernment. In a conservative Christian perspective, this serves as a reminder that believers must test the spirits and ensure that any miraculous event aligns with the truth of Scripture.

he has spoken to you
The phrase "he has spoken to you" underscores the act of communication and prophecy. In Hebrew, "דִּבֶּר אֵלֶיךָ" (dibber eleikha) implies a direct and personal communication. This highlights the personal nature of false prophecy, where a false prophet might claim divine authority to lead people astray. Historically, false prophets were a significant concern in Israel, as they could lead the people away from the covenant with God. From a conservative Christian viewpoint, this phrase serves as a caution against those who claim to speak for God but whose messages contradict His revealed Word. It emphasizes the importance of knowing Scripture to discern truth from deception.

comes to pass
The phrase "comes to pass" in Hebrew is "וּבָא הַדָּבָר" (u'va hadavar), which means the event or prediction actually occurs. This is significant because it acknowledges that false prophets can sometimes predict events accurately. However, the fulfillment of a prediction alone is not proof of divine endorsement. In the historical context of Israel, this was a test of faithfulness to God rather than a test of the prophet's accuracy. From a conservative Christian perspective, this phrase teaches that the ultimate test of a prophet is not the occurrence of their predictions but their adherence to God's truth. It reminds believers to evaluate teachings and prophecies against the entirety of Scripture, ensuring they align with God's character and commands.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Prophets or Dreamers
Individuals who claim to have received divine revelations, often through signs or wonders.

3. Israelites
The audience receiving the warning against false prophets and idolatry.

4. Canaan
The land the Israelites are about to enter, where they will encounter various religious practices.

5. Signs and Wonders
Miraculous events or predictions that may be used to validate a prophet's message.

Teaching Points

Discernment is Essential
Believers must exercise discernment and not be swayed by signs and wonders alone. The truth of a message must align with God's revealed Word.

Test the Message
The authenticity of a prophet or dreamer is not solely in their ability to perform signs but in their adherence to God's commandments and teachings.

Guard Against Deception
The presence of signs and wonders can be a test of faithfulness to God. Believers must remain vigilant and rooted in Scripture to avoid being led astray.

Faithfulness to God’s Word
True prophets will always lead people towards God and His commandments, not away from them.

The Role of Community
Engaging with a community of believers can provide accountability and collective discernment when evaluating spiritual claims.

Bible Study Questions

1. How can we discern whether a sign or wonder is truly from God or a test of our faith?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of testing the spirits in our daily lives?

3. How does the warning in Deuteronomy 13:2 relate to the New Testament teachings on false prophets?

4. What role does community play in helping us discern truth from deception?

5. How can we ensure that our faith remains rooted in God's Word amidst the allure of miraculous signs?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 24:24
Jesus warns about false prophets and false Christs who will perform great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect.

1 John 4:1
Believers are instructed to test the spirits to see whether they are from God, as many false prophets have gone out into the world.

2 Thessalonians 2:9-10
Paul speaks of the coming of the lawless one, who will use all sorts of displays of power through signs and wonders to deceive.

Exodus 7:11-12
The magicians of Egypt replicate some of the signs Moses performed, illustrating that not all signs are from God.