Deuteronomy 31:18

And on that day I will surely hide My face because of all the evil they have done by turning to other gods.

Study Bible

And on that day
This phrase refers to a specific time of judgment and consequence. In the context of Deuteronomy, Moses is addressing the Israelites as they prepare to enter the Promised Land. "That day" signifies a future moment when the consequences of their actions will manifest. It is a reminder of the covenant relationship between God and Israel, where blessings and curses are contingent upon obedience or disobedience (Deuteronomy 28).

I will surely hide My face
The concept of God hiding His face is a metaphor for the withdrawal of His favor and presence. In the ancient Near Eastern context, the face of a deity symbolized attention and blessing. When God hides His face, it indicates a break in the relationship due to sin. This is echoed in other scriptures, such as Isaiah 59:2, where sin creates a separation between God and His people.

because of all the evil they have done
The evil mentioned here refers to the Israelites' disobedience and idolatry. Historically, the Israelites struggled with maintaining faithfulness to God amidst the polytheistic cultures surrounding them. This phrase underscores the seriousness of their actions and the moral and spiritual decline that results from turning away from God's commandments.

by turning to other gods
Idolatry is a recurring issue for the Israelites, as seen throughout the Old Testament. The worship of other gods was not only a violation of the first commandment but also a betrayal of the exclusive covenant relationship with Yahweh. This turning away is often depicted as spiritual adultery, and it leads to severe consequences, as seen in the Babylonian exile (2 Kings 17:7-23). The call to monotheism is central to Israel's identity and mission, and turning to other gods represents a fundamental breach of their covenant with God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who is delivering God's message to the people. He is preparing them for his departure and the transition of leadership to Joshua.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God who are about to enter the Promised Land. They are warned about the consequences of turning away from God.

3. Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which God promised to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The Israelites are on the brink of entering this land.

4. God (Yahweh)
The one true God who has been leading and providing for the Israelites. He warns them of the consequences of idolatry.

5. Other gods
The false deities that the Israelites are tempted to worship, which leads to God's warning of hiding His face.

Teaching Points

The Seriousness of Idolatry
Idolatry is not just the worship of physical idols but anything that takes the place of God in our lives. We must examine our hearts for modern-day idols.

The Consequence of Sin
Sin leads to a separation from God, symbolized by Him hiding His face. This should motivate us to live in obedience and repentance.

God's Faithfulness Despite Human Unfaithfulness
Even when God hides His face, it is a call to repentance and a reminder of His desire for a restored relationship with His people.

The Importance of Spiritual Vigilance
The Israelites were warned before entering the Promised Land. We, too, must remain vigilant in our spiritual journey, aware of the temptations that can lead us away from God.

Seeking God's Face
In times of spiritual dryness or when God seems distant, we are encouraged to seek Him earnestly, knowing that He desires to be found by those who seek Him with all their heart.

Bible Study Questions

1. What are some modern-day "gods" or idols that can lead us away from our relationship with God, and how can we guard against them?

2. How does the concept of God hiding His face challenge our understanding of His presence in our lives, especially during difficult times?

3. Reflect on a time when you felt distant from God. What steps did you take to seek His face, and what was the outcome?

4. How can the warnings given to the Israelites in Deuteronomy 31:18 be applied to the church today in maintaining faithfulness to God?

5. In what ways can we encourage one another to remain spiritually vigilant and avoid the pitfalls of idolatry and sin?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 32
The incident of the golden calf, where the Israelites turned to idol worship, serves as a historical backdrop for God's warning in Deuteronomy 31:18.

Isaiah 59:2
This verse speaks about how sin separates people from God, similar to the concept of God hiding His face due to the Israelites' idolatry.

Hosea 5:15
God speaks of withdrawing His presence until the people acknowledge their guilt and seek His face, paralleling the theme of divine hiddenness due to sin.