Deuteronomy 28:20

Amharic New Standard Translation (አማርኛ አዲሱ መደበኛ ትርጉም) 2005

“ክፉ ነገር በማድረግ እግዚአብሔርን ስለ ተውክ በምታደርገው ነገር ሁሉ ፈጽመህ እስክትጠፋ ድረስ እርግማንን፥ ሁከትንና ውርደትን ያመጣብሃል።

What Does This Mean?

This verse says that God will bring curses, troubles, and criticism on those who turn away from Him, causing them to suffer and eventually perish. God is speaking directly to the Israelites, warning them of the consequences of their actions.

Explained for Children

Imagine you have a really good friend who always helps you. But one day, you start ignoring this friend and doing bad things. Your friend might feel sad and stop helping you. That's what this verse is saying. God is our friend, and if we do bad things and ignore Him, He might let bad things happen to us.

Historical Background

Moses is speaking to the Israelites before they enter the Promised Land. This is part of the covenant renewal, where God outlines the consequences of disobedience. The Israelites are about to inherit a new land and need to remember their promises to God.

Living It Out Today

Imagine someone who has been successful in business but starts cutting corners and cheating customers. Eventually, this could lead to legal troubles and ruin their business. This verse reminds us that our actions have consequences and that turning away from God can lead to negative outcomes.

Topics

• obedience
• consequences
• faithfulness
• punishment
• turning away from God
• God's warning

Related Verses

• Leviticus 26:14-16
• Jeremiah 17:5-8
• Luke 6:27-28
• Romans 6:23
• 1 Corinthians 6:9-10

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean to be 'destroyed' and 'perish quickly' in this verse?

Being 'destroyed' and 'perishing quickly' refer to the severe consequences of disobeying God. It can mean physical destruction or the loss of spiritual well-being and prosperity.

How can one avoid the curses mentioned in Deuteronomy 28:20?

The curses can be avoided by staying faithful to God and following His commandments. Living a life that pleases God can prevent these negative outcomes.

Is this verse only applicable to the Israelites or does it apply to everyone?

While this verse was originally addressed to the Israelites, the principle of facing consequences for disobedience applies to all people who have a relationship with God.

What kind of 'wickedness' is being referred to in this verse?

'Wickedness' in this context includes any actions that go against God's will, such as idolatry, injustice, or rebellion against His commandments.