Deuteronomy 31:18

And on that day I will surely hide My face because of all the evil they have done by turning to other gods.

Study Bible

And on that day
This phrase sets a specific time frame, indicating a future moment of consequence. In the Hebrew context, "that day" often refers to a time of judgment or significant divine action. It is a reminder of the certainty of God's timing and His sovereign control over history. The phrase underscores the importance of being aware of the spiritual and moral state of the people, as their actions have led to this pivotal moment.

I will surely hide My face
The concept of God hiding His face is deeply rooted in Hebrew thought, symbolizing a withdrawal of His presence and favor. The Hebrew word for "hide" (סתר, satar) conveys a deliberate act of concealment. This is a powerful image of divine displeasure and the consequences of sin. In the biblical narrative, God's face represents His blessing, guidance, and protection. When He hides His face, it signifies a break in the relationship, a theme that resonates throughout the Old Testament as a call to repentance and return to God.

because of all the evil
The phrase highlights the cause of God's action—human sinfulness. The Hebrew word for "evil" (רָעָה, ra'ah) encompasses moral wickedness and rebellion against God's commandments. This serves as a sobering reminder of the seriousness with which God views sin. It is not merely a breach of law but a personal affront to His holiness and righteousness. The cumulative nature of "all the evil" suggests a persistent and unrepentant turning away from God, warranting His response.

they have done
This phrase emphasizes human responsibility and accountability. The actions of the people are not accidental but deliberate choices that have led to their current predicament. The Hebrew verb used here (עָשָׂה, asah) implies intentionality and effort, reinforcing the idea that the people are active participants in their rebellion. This serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of free will when exercised against God's will.

by turning to other gods
Idolatry is the specific sin mentioned, a recurring issue for the Israelites. The Hebrew word for "turning" (פָּנָה, panah) suggests a change of direction or allegiance. This act of turning away from the one true God to worship other deities is seen as spiritual adultery, a betrayal of the covenant relationship established at Sinai. Historically, the allure of surrounding cultures and their gods was a constant temptation for Israel, leading to cycles of sin, judgment, and restoration. This phrase serves as a timeless warning against the dangers of idolatry, both ancient and modern, urging believers to remain faithful to God alone.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God who are about to enter the Promised Land. They are warned about the consequences of turning away from God.

3. Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which God promised to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The Israelites are on the brink of entering this land.

4. God (Yahweh)
The one true God who has been leading and providing for the Israelites. He warns them of the consequences of idolatry.

5. Other gods
The false deities that the Israelites are tempted to worship, which leads to God's warning of hiding His face.

Teaching Points

The Seriousness of Idolatry
Idolatry is not just the worship of physical idols but anything that takes the place of God in our lives. We must examine our hearts for modern-day idols.

The Consequence of Sin
Sin leads to a separation from God, symbolized by Him hiding His face. This should motivate us to live in obedience and repentance.

God's Faithfulness Despite Human Unfaithfulness
Even when God hides His face, it is a call to repentance and a reminder of His desire for a restored relationship with His people.

The Importance of Spiritual Vigilance
The Israelites were warned before entering the Promised Land. We, too, must remain vigilant in our spiritual journey, aware of the temptations that can lead us away from God.

Seeking God's Face
In times of spiritual dryness or when God seems distant, we are encouraged to seek Him earnestly, knowing that He desires to be found by those who seek Him with all their heart.

Bible Study Questions

1. What are some modern-day "gods" or idols that can lead us away from our relationship with God, and how can we guard against them?

2. How does the concept of God hiding His face challenge our understanding of His presence in our lives, especially during difficult times?

3. Reflect on a time when you felt distant from God. What steps did you take to seek His face, and what was the outcome?

4. How can the warnings given to the Israelites in Deuteronomy 31:18 be applied to the church today in maintaining faithfulness to God?

5. In what ways can we encourage one another to remain spiritually vigilant and avoid the pitfalls of idolatry and sin?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 32
The incident of the golden calf, where the Israelites turned to idol worship, serves as a historical backdrop for God's warning in Deuteronomy 31:18.

Isaiah 59:2
This verse speaks about how sin separates people from God, similar to the concept of God hiding His face due to the Israelites' idolatry.

Hosea 5:15
God speaks of withdrawing His presence until the people acknowledge their guilt and seek His face, paralleling the theme of divine hiddenness due to sin.