Deuteronomy 5:28
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Deuteronomy 5:28
28 And the LORD heard the voice of your words, when ye spake unto me; and the LORD said unto me, I have heard the voice of the words of this people, which they have spoken unto thee: they have well said all that they have spoken.
Chapter Context
Deuteronomy 5 is a sermonic and legal chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of covenant, obedience, love. Written during the end of the wilderness wandering (c. 1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Moses delivered these speeches as Israel prepared to enter a land filled with different Canaanite city-states.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-33: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Deuteronomy and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Deuteronomy 5:28
28 And the LORD heard the voice of your words, when ye spake unto me; and the LORD said unto me, I have heard the voice of the words of this people, which they have spoken unto thee: they have well said all that they have spoken.
Analysis
God's approval 'I have heard the voice of the people...they have well said' commends Israel's appropriate fear and commitment to obedience. God Himself validates the need for mediation—He doesn't rebuke their request for Moses to intercede. This demonstrates that God establishes the means (mediation) by which covenant relationship functions. The phrase 'they have well said' shows that initial covenant profession pleased God, though subsequent unfaithfulness proved their need for heart transformation. This verse illustrates that right theology (understanding need for mediation, committing to obedience) without heart renewal produces mere external religion.
Historical Context
God's approval of Israel's request established the pattern of mediated revelation continuing throughout redemptive history. Prophets delivered God's Word; priests offered sacrifices and interceded; kings governed as God's representatives. This mediatorial structure pointed forward to Christ who perfectly fulfills all three offices—Prophet, Priest, and King. Yet even with proper structure and initial commitment, Israel repeatedly violated covenant, demonstrating that external religion without regeneration fails.
Reflection
- How does God's approval of Israel's request for mediation demonstrate that He ordains the means by which His people approach Him?
- What does the tension between God's approval of their words and knowledge of their future unfaithfulness reveal about the insufficiency of external religion?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Deuteronomy 18:17