Deuteronomy 13:2 - and the sign or the wonder comes to pass, of which he spoke to you, saying, “Let us go after other gods” (which you have not known) “and let us serve them”;

Generated Verse: Deuteronomy 13:2

What does "Deuteronomy 13:2" mean?


Deuteronomy 13:2 describes a hypothetical situation where someone, potentially a prophet, performs a sign or wonder that comes true. This gives them credibility and makes people inclined to believe them. However, this person then uses their perceived divine endorsement to lead people astray by advocating for the worship of foreign gods.

Here's a breakdown of the verse's meaning:

"and the sign or the wonder comes to pass": This establishes the prophet's apparent credibility. The miracle or sign they predicted or performed actually happens. This suggests that they have some kind of divine connection or power.

"of which he spoke to you, saying, 'Let us go after other gods'": This is the crucial part. Despite the seeming validation of their prophetic abilities, they use their influence to promote the worship of gods that the Israelites were not supposed to worship.

"(which you have not known) 'and let us serve them'": The foreign gods are specifically identified as those "which you have not known," emphasizing their alien nature to the Israelite faith and tradition. The call to "serve them" signifies a demand for devotion and worship of these unfamiliar deities.

In essence, the verse warns against being swayed solely by miraculous events or apparent divine endorsements. The point is that even if someone seems to have divine power, their teachings should be evaluated against the established laws and principles of the Israelite faith. If they promote idolatry, they are false prophets, regardless of any miracles they may have performed.

The underlying message is one of discerning spiritual deception. God tests his people by allowing false prophets to arise. The people's loyalty to God and his commandments is tested when they are tempted to follow a seemingly credible but ultimately deceptive figure. This tests their faith and ensures that their worship of God is genuine and not just based on a desire for signs and wonders.