Bible Commentaries
Deuteronomy 13

Verses 1-18

The discourse commenced in chapter twelve continues with carefully expressed warnings against idolatry, and it is very arresting to note how the ways by which they might be seduced from the pure worship of Jehovah to the false worship of idols were guarded against.

First, there would be the danger of curiosity and therefore they were charged not to inquire after false gods. Second, there would be a peril of signs and wonders wrought by false prophets No such sign or wonder must be permitted to withdraw them from the pure worship of Jehovah and, indeed, any such working of signs was I pronounced guilty of death.

Third, in all probability there would be the temptation presented by some tie of blood or friendship. These must all be sternly guarded against, and any being seduced in either way were to be slain without pity.

Once more there would be the peril arising from looseness of discipline in these very matters and the people were charged to take active measures against seducers and the seduced. The importance of these severe provisions will be understood as it is remembered that the worship of a people forevermore determines their character and their conduct.