Commentary on Deuteronomy 32:35

Verse Text: "To me belongs vengeance and recompense; their foot shall slip in due time: for the day of their calamity is at hand, and the things that shall come upon them make haste."

Introduction

The verse from Deuteronomy 32:35 is part of the Song of Moses, a poignant declaration of God's sovereignty, justice, and the ultimate fate of the unrighteous. This commentary synthesizes insights from prominent public domain scholars such as Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke, aiming to provide a thorough understanding of its theological significance.

Contextual Analysis

This passage is situated within Moses' song, which serves as both a warning and a declaration of God's faithfulness. The themes of divine retribution and justice permeate this chapter, as Moses recounts Israel's history and the consequences of turning away from God.

Thematic Elements

• Divine Justice: This verse emphasizes that vengeance belongs exclusively to God, illustrating His role as the ultimate judge.
• Calamity and Slip: The imagery of slipping conveys the suddenness and unexpectedness of divine judgment upon the wicked.
• Imminence of Judgment: The phrase "the day of their calamity is at hand" serves as a warning that divine justice will not delay indefinitely.

Insights from Matthew Henry

Matthew Henry emphasizes that the foundational understanding of this verse lies in recognizing God's sovereignty over vengeance. He notes:

• "Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord" draws attention to the principle that judgment is reserved for God and that humans must refrain from seeking personal retribution.
• Henry explains that the phrase "their foot shall slip" symbolizes the precarious state of the wicked, suggesting that their downfall is certain when they step away from God’s path.
• He highlights the urgency indicated by the words "at hand," reminding us that God’s justice may come swiftly and without warning.

Insights from Albert Barnes

Albert Barnes provides a practical interpretation of this verse, focusing on its implications for both individuals and nations:

• Barnes concisely illustrates God’s ownership of vengeance, presenting it as a corrective measure against the wicked rather than arbitrary punishment.
• He explains that "their foot shall slip" serves as a metaphor for the fall of the ungodly, highlighting the fragility of their position and the certainty of their judgment.
• His commentary elucidates that God's timing in bringing about calamity is perfect, underscoring that mankind often fails to grasp the delayed nature of divine justice.

Insights from Adam Clarke

Adam Clarke elaborates on the original Hebrew terms and their implications for understanding God’s character in relation to judgment:

• Clarke emphasizes the distinction between divine retribution and human revenge, asserting that God’s judgment is just and purposeful as opposed to capricious.
• Through his examination of "the day of their calamity," he interprets this as a future event set by God, underscoring the certainty of its occurrence.
• His analysis also reflects on the effects of sin, stating that those who forsake God invite their own downfall.

Theological Implications

Deuteronomy 32:35 serves as a profound reminder of several key theological principles:

• God’s Sovereignty: The verse asserts the complete authority of God over justice and vengeance.
• Human Accountability: It emphasizes that individuals and nations are accountable for their actions, and divine justice will ultimately prevail.
• The Nature of Sin: The slippery footing of the wicked illustrates the inherent instability of a life lived in transgression.

Practical Applications

For pastors, students, theologians, and Bible scholars, this verse encourages reflection on how God's justice informs our faith and practice:

• It challenges believers to trust in God's justice rather than resorting to personal revenge.
• It serves as a warning against complacency in sin, urging a righteous pursuit of holiness and awareness of consequences.
• Finally, it offers comfort in knowing that God is a just judge who will right every wrong in His perfect timing.

Conclusion

Deuteronomy 32:35 encapsulates essential attributes of God's character—His justice, authority, and the certainty of divine recompense for sin. By drawing on the insights of respected biblical commentators, this analysis aims to deepen our understanding of the text's significance and its application in our lives as followers of Christ. As we reflect on this verse, may our hearts lean into God's justice with both humility and reverence for His sovereign will.