XXX. (1) WHEN ALL THESE THINGS ARE COME UPON THEE, THE BLESSING AND THE CURSE. — The curse is still upon them, and therefore this chapter contemplates the possibility of a restoration still to come. Some would go much further than this. But thus much is undeniable. AND THOU SHALT CALL THEM TO MIND... [ Continue Reading ]
THE LORD THY GOD WILL TURN THY CAPTIVITY. — The word “turn” is not active as we should expect (in the Hebrew), but neuter, and upon this fact the Rabbis have grounded the following observation that “in some way the Shechinah is abiding upon Israel during the stress of their captivity, and whensoever... [ Continue Reading ]
IF ANY OF THINE BE DRIVEN OUT. — In the LXX., “If thy dispersion be.” UNTO THE OUTMOST PARTS OF HEAVEN. — The LXX. version of these words is traceable in Matthew 24:31, “From the one end of heaven to the other.”... [ Continue Reading ]
INTO THE LAND WHICH THY FATHERS POSSESSED. — It is very difficult to interpret these words of any land except Palestine. Comp. Jeremiah 29:13, for their fulfilment in the first restoration, from Babylon.... [ Continue Reading ]
AND THOU SHALT RETURN AND... DO ALL HIS COMMANDMENTS. — It is as certain as anything can be in this world that the laws of Deuteronomy have never been kept perfectly. The minute observances of the Talmudical system took the heart and spirit out of the law of Moses. Christians do not profess to obey... [ Continue Reading ]
IF THOU SHALT HEARKEN. — “If” is the LXX. translation. The Hebrew word signifies “for,” or “when.”... [ Continue Reading ]
Deuteronomy 30:11. THE LAW OF THE RIGHTEOUSNESS WHICH IS OF FAITH. (11) FOR THIS COMMANDMENT. — Heb., _Mitzvah._ This duty, this form of obedience to the law. IS NOT HIDDEN FROM THEE — _i.e.,_ not too hard. Literally, _too wonderful for thee._ (Comp. Deuteronomy 17:8; Psalms 139:6.) (12) IT IS NO... [ Continue Reading ]
HE IS THY LIFE, AND THE LENGTH OF THY DAYS. — This is the Old Testament form of a well-known saying in the New Testament, which may yet be fulfilled in Israel, “_I am_ the _resurrection_ and _the life._ He that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live; and whosoever liveth and believe... [ Continue Reading ]