Deuteronomy 7:4

because they will turn your sons away from following Me to serve other gods. Then the anger of the LORD will burn against you, and He will swiftly destroy you.

Study Bible

For they will turn your sons away
This phrase highlights the potential influence of foreign nations on the Israelites. The Hebrew root for "turn away" is "סוּר" (sur), which means to turn aside or depart. Historically, the Israelites were surrounded by nations with different religious practices, and God warned them of the spiritual dangers of intermingling. The phrase underscores the importance of maintaining a pure devotion to God, as external influences can lead to a departure from faith.

from following Me
The phrase "from following Me" emphasizes the personal relationship between God and His people. The Hebrew word for "following" is "אַחֲרֵי" (acharei), which implies a pursuit or a journey after someone. This reflects the covenantal relationship where the Israelites are called to walk in God's ways. The historical context shows that deviation from this path often led to spiritual and national decline.

to serve other gods
"To serve other gods" is a direct reference to idolatry, which was a constant temptation for Israel. The Hebrew word for "serve" is "עָבַד" (avad), meaning to work or worship. This phrase warns against the allure of pagan worship practices that were prevalent in the ancient Near East. Serving other gods was not just a religious act but a betrayal of the exclusive covenant with Yahweh.

Then the anger of the LORD will burn against you
This phrase conveys the seriousness of idolatry and its consequences. The Hebrew word for "anger" is "אַף" (aph), which can also mean nostril or face, symbolizing the intensity of God's wrath. The imagery of burning suggests a consuming, righteous indignation. Historically, this reflects the covenantal curses outlined in Deuteronomy, where disobedience leads to divine judgment.

and He will swiftly destroy you
The phrase "He will swiftly destroy you" serves as a stark warning of the consequences of turning away from God. The Hebrew root for "destroy" is "שָׁמַד" (shamad), meaning to annihilate or exterminate. The adverb "swiftly" indicates the immediacy and certainty of God's judgment. This reflects the historical reality that Israel's survival depended on their faithfulness to God, as seen in their eventual exile due to persistent idolatry.

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, who are being warned against intermarrying with pagan nations.

3. Pagan Nations
The surrounding nations whose practices and gods are a threat to the Israelites' faithfulness to Yahweh.

4. Yahweh (The LORD)
The one true God who demands exclusive worship and obedience from His people.

5. Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which the Israelites are about to enter, filled with nations that worship other gods.

Teaching Points

The Danger of Idolatry
Idolatry is not just the worship of physical idols but anything that takes the place of God in our lives. We must guard our hearts against modern forms of idolatry.

The Importance of Obedience
Obedience to God's commands is crucial for maintaining a relationship with Him. Disobedience leads to spiritual and sometimes physical consequences.

The Influence of Relationships
Relationships have a profound impact on our spiritual lives. We must choose relationships that encourage us in our faith rather than lead us away from God.

God's Righteous Anger
God's anger is a response to unfaithfulness and idolatry. It serves as a warning to remain faithful and devoted to Him alone.

The Call to Holiness
As God's people, we are called to be set apart and holy, reflecting His character in a world that often opposes His ways.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the warning in Deuteronomy 7:4 apply to modern-day believers in terms of relationships and influences?

2. What are some contemporary forms of idolatry that can turn our hearts away from God, and how can we guard against them?

3. How does the concept of being "unequally yoked" in 2 Corinthians 6:14-18 relate to the warning given in Deuteronomy 7:4?

4. In what ways can we ensure that our obedience to God remains steadfast, even when surrounded by contrary influences?

5. How can understanding God's righteous anger help us in our spiritual walk and in maintaining a healthy fear of the Lord?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 34:15-16
Warns against making covenants with the inhabitants of the land, which could lead to idolatry.

Joshua 23:12-13
Reiterates the danger of intermarriage with pagan nations and the resulting consequences.

1 Kings 11:1-4
Describes how Solomon's foreign wives led him to idolatry, fulfilling the warning in Deuteronomy 7:4.

2 Corinthians 6:14-18
Advises believers not to be unequally yoked with unbelievers, echoing the principle of separation from idolatry.