Deuteronomy 4:25-31

4. The consequences of idolatry 4:25-31

This warning has proved prophetic in that Israel did apostatize and experience all the consequences Moses warned against here. The nation’s present scattered condition as a result of her dispersion by the Romans is only one of several scatterings that Israel has experienced (Deuteronomy 4:27). Moses predicted a turning back to the Lord (Deuteronomy 4:30). This has yet to take place during Israel’s present dispersion, but it will happen (Zechariah 12:10).

Yahweh is a holy judge who zealously yearns for the welfare of His chosen people (Deuteronomy 4:24), but if they turn from Him and He disciplines them He will have compassion on them (cf. Deuteronomy 6:5; Deuteronomy 10:12; Deuteronomy 11:13; Deuteronomy 26:16; Deuteronomy 30:2; Deuteronomy 30:6; Deuteronomy 30:10). The promise that God would not fail or destroy His people or forget His covenant with them indicates the extent of His love for Israel (Romans 11:1).