Meaning and Interpretation of Deuteronomy 28:61

Deuteronomy 28:61 (KJV): "Also every sickness, and every plague, which is not written in the book of this law, them will the LORD bring upon thee, until thou be destroyed."

Overview

This verse is part of a larger section in Deuteronomy outlining the blessings for obedience and the curses for disobedience. Here, Moses emphasizes the seriousness of neglecting God’s commandments, warning that not only known plagues but also unknown diseases will come upon the disobedient.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry's Commentary:

  Henry states that this verse serves as a warning of God's extensive judgment. He emphasizes that disobedience invites not only the known consequences of sin but also those that remain hidden or unthought of. This indicates the severity of diverging from God’s instructions.

• Albert Barnes' Notes:

  Barnes reflects on the phrase "not written in the book of this law," implying the unknown extent of God's wrath. He speaks about the limitations of human knowledge concerning the potential afflictions that God can unleash on a disobedient nation. It underscores an idea of total spiritual failure leading to total devastation.

• Adam Clarke's Commentary:

  Clarke underlines that "until thou be destroyed" signifies ultimate ruin resulting from persistent rebellion against divine ordinances. He mentions that the plagues and sicknesses serve as divine warnings, yet, when ignored, lead to curses that could escalate beyond imagination.

Bible Cross-References

To fully understand the implications of Deuteronomy 28:61, we can look at several cross-references throughout the Scriptures that reinforce the themes of obedience and consequences for disobedience:

• Exodus 15:26: "And said, If thou wilt diligently hearken to the voice of the LORD thy God, and wilt do that which is right in his sight..." - This emphasizes obedience to avoid sickness.
• Leviticus 26:15-16: "And if ye despise my statutes, or if your soul abhor my judgments..." - Highlights God's promised curses in return for disobedience.
• Deuteronomy 28:58-59: "If thou wilt not observe to do all the words of this law that are written in this book..." - More specific warnings of plagues for disobedience.
• Jeremiah 15:18: "Why is my pain perpetual, and my wound incurable..." - Reflects the consequences of turning from God.
• Revelation 22:18-19: "For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book..." - A warning about adding to or taking from God’s commandments.
• Luke 13:3: "I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish." - Reiterates the need for repentance to avoid destruction.
• Romans 1:18: "For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men..." - Connects God’s judgment with humanity's rebellion.

Connections Between Bible Verses

Deuteronomy 28:61 highlights a recurring theme throughout the Bible regarding the consequences of sin and the nature of God’s judgment. Each cross-reference provides additional layers to understanding how these warnings manifest throughout scriptural narratives.

Thematic Bible Verse Connections

• Sickness as a Consequence of Sin: There are numerous instances in the Bible where sickness is shown as a result of sin, such as in James 5:15 where prayer for healing is coupled with confession of sins.
• Divine Retribution: The theme of divine retribution appears in various forms throughout the Old and New Testaments, reinforcing the principle that God’s justice is always coupled with His mercy.
• Call to Repentance: Many passages emphasize the importance of repentance as a way to avert divine wrath, as echoed in texts like 2 Chronicles 7:14.

Comparative Bible Verse Analysis

Analyzing these connections enhances our understanding of the scriptural framework surrounding divine justice and mercy.

Implications for Believers

For contemporary believers, Deuteronomy 28:61 serves as a sobering reminder of the far-reaching consequences of neglecting a life aligned with God's will. Recognizing inter-Biblical dialogues reinforces the necessity of remaining steadfast in faith and obedience.

Conclusion

In summary, Deuteronomy 28:61 not only warns of potential devastation due to sin but invites a deeper exploration of scriptural connections. The cross-referencing of Biblical texts provides a holistic view of God’s character and His expectations for His people, emphasizing the ongoing relevance of these warnings throughout the ages.