Deuteronomy 31:17

On that day My anger will burn against them, and I will abandon them and hide My face from them, so that they will be consumed, and many troubles and afflictions will befall them. On that day they will say, 'Have not these disasters come upon us because our God is no longer with us?'

Study Bible

On that day
This phrase signifies a specific time of judgment and consequence. In the Hebrew context, "that day" often refers to a divinely appointed time when God acts decisively. It is a reminder of the certainty of God's promises and warnings. Historically, this reflects the covenant relationship between God and Israel, where blessings and curses were contingent upon obedience.

My anger will burn against them
The Hebrew word for "anger" here is "אַף" (aph), which can also mean "nose" or "nostrils," metaphorically describing the flaring of nostrils in anger. This anthropomorphic expression emphasizes the intensity of God's righteous indignation against sin. It serves as a warning of the seriousness of turning away from God, highlighting His holiness and justice.

I will forsake them
The Hebrew root "עָזַב" (azab) means to leave or abandon. This phrase underscores the consequences of Israel's disobedience. In the covenantal context, God's presence was conditional upon Israel's faithfulness. Forsaking here is not a permanent abandonment but a disciplinary action intended to bring about repentance and restoration.

and hide My face from them
In Hebrew, "hide My face" (הִסְתַּרְתִּי פָנַי) signifies the withdrawal of God's favor and presence. The "face" of God represents His attention, blessing, and protection. When God hides His face, it is a form of judgment, allowing the natural consequences of sin to unfold. This phrase calls believers to seek God's face continually, emphasizing the importance of living in His presence.

so that they will be consumed
The word "consumed" (אָכַל, akal) can mean to be devoured or destroyed. This reflects the destructive nature of sin and the inevitable outcome of turning away from God. It serves as a sobering reminder of the spiritual and physical consequences of disobedience, urging believers to remain steadfast in their faith.

and many troubles and disasters will befall them
The Hebrew words for "troubles" (רָעוֹת, ra'ot) and "disasters" (צָרוֹת, tsarot) convey calamity and distress. These are the results of breaking the covenant with God. Historically, Israel experienced such consequences during periods of idolatry and rebellion. This phrase encourages believers to trust in God's ways, which lead to peace and security.

On that day they will say
This repetition of "on that day" emphasizes the realization and acknowledgment of the consequences of sin. It is a moment of reflection and recognition of the cause of their suffering. This phrase highlights the importance of self-examination and repentance in the life of a believer.

‘Have not these disasters come upon us because our God is no longer with us?’
This rhetorical question reveals the understanding that separation from God results in disaster. It acknowledges the direct correlation between God's presence and the well-being of His people. This serves as a call to return to God, recognizing that true security and blessing are found only in His presence. It is a reminder of the faithfulness of God, who desires to be with His people and bless them when they walk in His ways.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of Israel who is delivering God's message to the people. He is preparing them for his departure and the leadership transition to Joshua.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who are being warned about the consequences of turning away from God.

3. God (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God who promises blessings for obedience and consequences for disobedience.

4. Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which the Israelites are about to enter. It represents both a physical inheritance and a spiritual promise.

5. Covenant
The agreement between God and Israel, which includes blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience.

Teaching Points

The Seriousness of Sin
Sin has real consequences, both spiritually and physically. When we turn away from God, we invite trouble into our lives.

God’s Faithfulness to His Word
God is faithful to His promises, both in blessing and in judgment. We can trust that He will do what He says.

The Importance of Repentance
When we find ourselves in trouble, it is crucial to examine our relationship with God and repent if necessary.

God’s Presence as a Blessing
The presence of God is a source of protection and blessing. We should strive to maintain a close relationship with Him.

Learning from History
The experiences of the Israelites serve as a warning and a lesson for us today. We should learn from their mistakes and seek to obey God.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does this passage teach us about the nature of God’s relationship with His people?

2. How can we apply the warning in Deuteronomy 31:17 to our personal lives today?

3. In what ways do we see the consequences of turning away from God in our world today?

4. How can we ensure that we remain in God’s presence and avoid the pitfalls described in this passage?

5. What steps can we take to repent and seek God’s face when we realize we have strayed from Him?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 26 and Deuteronomy 28
These chapters outline the blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, providing a broader context for the consequences mentioned in Deuteronomy 31:17.

Judges 2
This passage describes a time when Israel turned away from God, and He allowed them to face oppression, illustrating the fulfillment of the warning in Deuteronomy 31:17.

2 Chronicles 7:14
This verse offers a solution to the problem of God hiding His face, emphasizing repentance and seeking God’s presence.