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Study this verse
Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Deuteronomy 6:17–25. His four-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
Here, I. Moses charges them to keep God's commandments themselves: You shall diligently keep God's commandments, Deu 6:17-19. Note, It requires a great deal of care and pains to keep up religion in the power of it in our hearts and lives. Negligence will ruin us; but we cannot be saved without diligence. To induce them to this, he here shows them, 1. That this would be very acceptable to God: it is right and good in the sight of the Lord; and that is right and good indeed that is, so in God's sight. If we have any regard to the favour of our Creator as our felicity, and the law of our creation as our rule, we shall be religious. 2. That it would be very advantageous and profitable to themselves. It would secure to them the possession of the land of Canaan, prosperity there, and constant victory over those that stood in their way. In short, "Do well, and it shall be well with thee."
II.He charges them to instruct their children in the commands of God, not only that they might in their tender years intelligently and affectionately join in religious services, but that afterwards they might in their day keep up religion, and convey it to those that should come after them. Now,
1.Here is a proper question which it is supposed the children would ask (Deu 6:20): "What mean the testimonies and the statutes? What is the meaning of the feasts we observe, the sacrifices we offer, and the many peculiar customs we keep up?" Observe,
(1.)All divine institutions have a certain meaning, and there is something great designed in them.
(2.)It concerns us to know and understand the meaning of them, that we may perform a reasonable service and may not offer the blind for sacrifice.
(3.)It is good for children betimes to enquire into the true intent and meaning of the religious observances they are trained up in. If any are thus inquisitive in divine things it is a good sign that they are concerned about them, and a good means of their attaining to a great acquaintance with them. Then shall we know if thus we follow on to know.
2.Here is a full answer put into the parents' mouths to be given to this good question. Parents and teachers must give instruction to those under their charge, though they do not ask it, nay, though they have an aversion to it; much more must they be ready to answer questions, and to give instruction when it is desired; for it may be hoped that those who ask it will be willing to receive it. Did the children ask the meaning of God's laws? Let them be told that they were to be observed,
(1.)In a grateful remembrance of God's former favours to them, especially their deliverance out of Egypt, Deu 6:21-23. The children must be often told of the deplorable state their ancestors were in when they were bondmen in Egypt, the great salvation God wrought for them in fetching them out thence, and that God, in giving them these peculiar statutes, meant to perpetuate the memorial of that work of wonder, by which they were formed into a peculiar people.
(2.)As the prescribed condition of his further favours (Deu 6:24): The Lord commanded us all these statutes for our good. Note, God commands us nothing but what is really for our good. It is our interest as well as our duty to be religious.
[1.]It will be our life: That he might preserve us alive, which is a great favour, and more than we could expect, considering how often we have forfeited life itself. Godliness has the promise of the continuance and comfort of the life that now is as far as it is for God's glory.
[2.]It will be our righteousness. Could we perfectly fulfil but that one command of loving God with all our heart, soul, and might, and could we say, "We have never done otherwise," this would be so our righteousness as to entitle us to the benefits of the covenant of innocency; had we continued in every thing that is written in the book of the law to do it, the law would have justified us. But this we cannot pretend to, therefore our sincere obedience shall be accepted through a Mediator to denominate us, as Noah was, righteous before God, Gen 7:1; Luk 1:6; and Jo1 3:7. The Chaldee reads it, There shall be a reward to us if we observe to do these commandments; for, without doubt, in keeping God's commandments there is great reward.
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Summary
Deuteronomy 6:23 encapsulates the profound essence of God's redemptive history with Israel, serving as a foundational reminder of His sovereign act of deliverance from Egyptian bondage and His unwavering faithfulness in fulfilling covenant promises by bringing His people into their promised inheritance. This verse articulates a purposeful divine trajectory, emphasizing that God's actions are rooted in His unchanging character and aimed at establishing His people in the blessings He has sworn to bestow, thereby providing a theological bedrock for their identity and obedience.
Context
Literary Context
This verse is strategically placed within Moses' second major address to the Israelites, delivered on the plains of Moab as the new generation stood on the threshold of the Promised Land. Deuteronomy, meaning "second law," functions as a restatement and exposition of the Mosaic Law, tailored for those who had not personally witnessed the Exodus but were poised to inherit its culmination. Deuteronomy 6:23 immediately follows the profound declaration of the Shema, particularly the command to "love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your might" found in Deuteronomy 6:5. Moses presents God's mighty acts of salvation as the compelling historical and theological basis for their required obedience and devotion. The verse underscores the imperative for parents to diligently teach this divine narrative to their children (Deuteronomy 6:7), ensuring that future generations comprehend their identity as a people redeemed by God's powerful and purposeful hand.
Historical & Cultural Context
The immediate audience for Moses' address consisted primarily of the generation born during the forty years of wilderness wandering, now facing the monumental transition from a nomadic existence to settling in the land promised centuries earlier to their patriarchs. Although they did not personally endure Egyptian slavery, the miraculous Exodus was the defining event of their national identity, constantly recounted and celebrated. The concept of "the land" was not merely a geographical territory but held deep theological significance, representing God's tangible blessing, a place of rest, abundant provision, and the ultimate fulfillment of the Abrahamic Covenant. Their impending entry into Canaan was understood as a direct manifestation of divine faithfulness, setting them apart from all other nations. Culturally, the emphasis on remembering and teaching these historical acts (Deuteronomy 6:20-25) was vital for maintaining their unique covenant relationship with Yahweh amidst the pervasive idolatrous practices of the surrounding Canaanite peoples.
Key Themes
Deuteronomy 6:23 powerfully encapsulates several pervasive themes woven throughout the Pentateuch and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, Divine Deliverance is paramount, directly referencing the miraculous Exodus from Egyptian bondage. This highlights God's sovereign power and His active, compassionate intervention to rescue His people from overwhelming oppression. Secondly, Covenant Faithfulness is central, as God's promise to give them "the land which he sware unto our fathers" underscores His unwavering commitment to the Abrahamic Covenant. This was not a new or arbitrary decision but the culmination of an oath made generations prior to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Thirdly, Purposeful Redemption is clearly articulated in the dual action of "brought us out... that he might bring us in," emphasizing that God's salvific acts are always teleological, leading to a specific, intended outcome—an inheritance and a new, intimate relationship. Finally, Inheritance and Promise are embodied by the land itself, representing the tangible blessing and fulfillment of God's word, a place of rest and provision that serves as a constant reminder of God's ultimate blessing for His redeemed people.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This verb, derived from H3318, is a Hiphil imperfect form, meaning "to cause to go out" or "to bring out." The grammatical construction emphasizes God as the active, initiating agent of the Exodus. It highlights His sovereign power and deliberate intervention in rescuing Israel from their bondage in Egypt, underscoring that their deliverance was entirely His doing, not their own.
Originating from H935, this is a Hiphil infinitive construct, meaning "to cause to come in" or "to bring in." The prefixed lamed indicates purpose ("in order to"). This phrase underscores the teleological nature of God's actions: the Exodus was not an end in itself but a means to a greater purpose—bringing Israel into their promised inheritance. It speaks of God's sustained guidance and ultimate goal for His people, demonstrating His comprehensive plan for their well-being.
This word, from H7650, is a Niphal perfect form, meaning "to swear" or "to take an oath," but in the Niphal, it signifies "he was sworn" or "he bound himself by an oath." This emphasizes the solemn, binding, and unbreakable nature of God's covenant promise. It highlights the divine commitment and reliability, assuring Israel that their inheritance was guaranteed by God's own integrity and faithfulness, making His word utterly dependable.
Verse Breakdown
"And he brought us out from thence"
This clause directly references the miraculous deliverance of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. "Thence" refers specifically to Egypt, a place of severe oppression and dehumanizing bondage. The active verb "brought us out" unequivocally attributes this monumental act directly to Yahweh, underscoring His sovereign power, profound compassion, and divine initiative in rescuing His people from a situation from which they were utterly incapable of freeing themselves. It stands as a foundational statement of God's redemptive character and His active involvement in the history of His people.
"that he might bring us in"
This phrase articulates the profound divine purpose behind the Exodus. God's act of bringing them out was not merely for freedom from slavery, but freedom for a specific destination and destiny. It reveals God's long-term, intentional plan and His deliberate intention to establish His people in a new covenant relationship and a new dwelling place. This "bringing in" signifies the next, crucial phase of His redemptive work, leading them toward the tangible fulfillment of His promises and a life of fellowship with Him.
"to give us the land"
This specifies the tangible object of God's overarching purpose and promise. The "land" (Canaan) represents the physical inheritance, a place of rest, abundant provision, and covenant blessing. It is the concrete manifestation of God's faithfulness and generosity, a place where Israel could live in covenant relationship with Him, enjoying the fruits of His promise. It is presented as a gratuitous gift, freely given by God's initiative, not earned by human merit.
"which he sware unto our fathers"
This final clause provides the ultimate theological grounding for God's actions, anchoring the present reality in the deep history of divine faithfulness. The land was not a new or arbitrary gift but the direct fulfillment of a solemn, binding oath made centuries earlier to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (the "fathers"). This emphasizes the continuity, immutability, and unwavering nature of God's covenant promises across generations. It assures Israel that God's word is utterly dependable and His faithfulness spans the entirety of history, making His promises supremely reliable and worthy of absolute trust.
Literary Devices
Deuteronomy 6:23 employs several potent literary devices to convey its profound and enduring message. The most prominent is Parallelism, specifically a form of complementary or teleological parallelism, seen in the contrasting yet intrinsically interconnected actions of "brought us out" and "bring us in." This highlights the two-fold, purposeful nature of God's redemptive work: deliverance from bondage leading inexorably to entrance into blessing. This structured progression emphasizes the deliberate and comprehensive nature of God's plan for His people. The verse also utilizes Recapitulation, as it concisely summarizes the grand narrative of the Exodus and the journey to the Promised Land, a narrative frequently reiterated throughout Deuteronomy to deeply impress upon the new generation their unique history and identity as God's redeemed people. Furthermore, it employs rich Covenant Language, particularly in the phrase "which he sware unto our fathers," invoking the ancient, foundational oaths made to the patriarchs. This language underscores the binding, unbreakable, and eternal nature of God's promises, grounding the present reality in the historical and immutable faithfulness of God. Ultimately, the verse functions as a powerful Summary Statement of God's redemptive action, serving as a theological anchor for the commands and exhortations that surround it within the broader discourse of Deuteronomy.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Deuteronomy 6:23 serves as a profound theological touchstone, illustrating God's consistent and unwavering pattern of redemptive action throughout salvation history. It reveals a God who is not only powerful enough to deliver His people from overwhelming oppression but also faithful enough to bring them into the full inheritance He has promised. This dual movement—deliverance from and entrance into—is a recurring motif throughout Scripture, demonstrating that God's salvation is always purposeful and teleological, leading His people to a place of blessing, rest, and intimate covenant relationship. It underscores the absolute reliability of God's word, showing that His ancient oaths are fulfilled in tangible ways across generations, providing a firm and unshakeable foundation for trust and obedience. The verse encapsulates the very essence of God's character as both mighty Deliverer and faithful Covenant-Keeper, whose promises are eternally sure.
Reflection and Application
Deuteronomy 6:23 offers profound and enduring lessons for believers today, transcending its historical context to speak to the heart of our faith. Just as Israel was called to remember God's mighty acts of deliverance and His unwavering faithfulness to His promises, so too are we called to recall God's past faithfulness in our own lives and in the grand narrative of salvation history. This remembrance is not mere nostalgia but an active, vital spiritual discipline that builds our faith, deepens our trust, and provides a firm foundation for our obedience. God's pattern of "bringing us out" from the bondage of sin and spiritual darkness, "that He might bring us in" to His marvelous light and spiritual inheritance, remains constant and eternally relevant. Our salvation in Christ is not just freedom from sin and death, but freedom for a life of purpose, intimate fellowship with God, and active participation in His eternal kingdom. This verse encourages us to live with a profound sense of gratitude for God's past grace and a confident expectation of His future fulfillment of all His promises, knowing that His character is unchanging and His word is utterly reliable across all generations.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What is the significance of "thence" in this verse?
"Thence" in Deuteronomy 6:23 refers specifically to Egypt, the land of Israel's severe bondage and slavery. Its significance lies in highlighting the stark contrast between their former state of oppressive servitude and their new state of freedom and promised inheritance. It underscores the immense magnitude of God's redemptive power and grace, as He delivered them from a place of utter hopelessness and physical and spiritual captivity, demonstrating His unique ability to rescue His people from impossible situations.
How does this verse relate to the concept of the Abrahamic Covenant?
This verse is a direct and powerful affirmation of God's unwavering faithfulness to the Abrahamic Covenant. When it states that God brought Israel into "the land which he sware unto our fathers," it explicitly references the solemn, binding oath God made to Abraham in Genesis 12:7 and reiterated in Genesis 15:18, promising his descendants the land of Canaan as an everlasting possession. Thus, Deuteronomy 6:23 demonstrates God's immutable commitment to His ancient promises, showing that His word is reliable, His covenants are eternally binding, and His plans span generations.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Deuteronomy 6:23 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and redemptive work of Jesus Christ. The divine pattern of "bringing us out" and "bringing us in" perfectly prefigures the spiritual exodus and eternal inheritance offered through the New Covenant. Just as God delivered Israel from the physical bondage of Egypt, Christ delivers humanity from the far greater spiritual bondage of sin, death, and the law's curse. He is the true Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world, accomplishing a more profound and universal Exodus for all who believe. This deliverance is not an end in itself; Christ "brought us out" of the domain of darkness "that he might bring us in" to the kingdom of His beloved Son (Colossians 1:13-14). The "land" promised to Israel, with its rest and provision, foreshadows the infinitely richer spiritual inheritance and eternal rest found in Christ. Believers are now heirs of all spiritual blessings in the heavenly places in Christ (Ephesians 1:3) and are promised an eternal dwelling in the new heavens and new earth, a land of perfect fellowship and unending joy with God. Thus, Deuteronomy 6:23 points forward to the ultimate Deliverer who fulfills God's covenant promises not merely for a single nation, but for all humanity, leading them into an eternal and glorious inheritance through His atoning work on the cross and His victorious resurrection.