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Deuteronomy 32:4
Verse
Context
Sermons
Stephen Kaung
J.C. Ryle
John Gill
Chuck Smith
Walter Beuttler
Evan Schaible
James BourneSummary
Commentary
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
He is the Rock--a word expressive of power and stability. The application of it in this passage is to declare that God had been true to His covenant with their fathers and them. Nothing that He had promised had failed; so that if their national experience had been painfully checkered by severe and protracted trials, notwithstanding the brightest promises, that result was traceable to their own undutiful and perverse conduct; not to any vacillation or unfaithfulness on the part of God (Jam 1:17), whose procedure was marked by justice and judgment, whether they had been exalted to prosperity or plunged into the depths of affliction.
John Gill Bible Commentary
He is the rock,.... That is, Jehovah is the rock, whose name Moses proposed to publish; and our God, to whom the heavens and the earth are called upon to ascribe greatness, even Christ the rock of salvation: here begins the song; the first word in it is very emphatic; it has a letter in it larger than usual, to denote the greatness of this Person, and to make it observable; he is "this" or "that rock" (k), by way of eminence, that rock and stone of Israel, Jacob prophesied of, which was typified by the rock Moses had smitten in the wilderness, and which, no doubt, he knew, as the Apostle Paul did, that it was a type of Christ, and had taught the Israelites so to understand it; and therefore this epithet of a divine Person would not seem strange to them, and yet is that rock the unbelieving Jews would and did stumble at, and the rock of salvation they lightly esteemed and rejected; the rock of refuge for sensible sinners to flee unto for shelter and safety from the wrath and justice of God, and from every enemy; the rock the church of God and every believer are built upon, and in which they dwell; and who is the rock of ages that will endure forever, as the Saviour of his people, and the foundation of their faith and hope: his work is perfect; not so much the work of creation or of providence, which are both the works of Christ, but that of redemption and salvation, in which there is not only a display of all the divine perfections, but is complete in all its parts; the law is perfectly fulfilled, justice is fully satisfied, a perfect righteousness is wrought out, a complete pardon is procured, perfect peace is made, full atonement of sins obtained, and the whole work is finished; and is so perfect that nothing is wanting in it, or can be added to it, nor can it be unravelled or undone again: likewise the work of building the church on this rock is carrying on, and will be perfected when all the elect of God, all given to Christ and redeemed by his blood, shall be called by grace and gathered in; when the last of the chosen ones, and redeemed of the Lamb, is brought in and laid in the building; when Christ shall deliver up the kingdom to the Father complete, and God shall be all in all, and his church and people will be in a perfect state to all eternity: for all his ways are judgment; his ways, which he himself has taken and walked in; his ways of providence are according to the best judgment and highest wisdom, and according to the strictest justice and equity; his ways of grace towards the salvation of his people, and the building up his church on himself, the rock; all the methods he took in eternity and time were all formed according to the counsel of God, and planned with the greatest wisdom, founded in his righteous nature, and according to covenant compact with his Father, and entered into in the most honourable manner; and in which he brought about the salvation of his people, in perfect consistence with the justice and holiness of God, and to the honour of them and his holy law: and he has executed all his offices of prophet, priest, and King, in the most just and righteous manner: the ways which he has prescribed his people to walk in, and in which he leads them, are ways of truth, righteousness, and holiness; such are all his ordinances and commandments: a God of truth; so Christ is called; see Gill on Isa 65:16; or the true God, which also is his name, Jo1 5:20; and is so called in opposition to fictitious deities, and such who are only so by name or office, but not by nature; whereas he is truly and properly God, as appears from his names and nature, from his perfections, works, and worship, ascribed to him: or "God the truth" (l), for he is "the truth", Joh 14:6; the truth of all types, promises, and prophecies, which all have their accomplishment in him; the sum and substance of all truths and doctrines, from whom they all come, and in whom they all centre: or "the God of faith" or "faithfulness" (m); the object of faith, and the author and finisher of it; and who is faithful, as the God-man and Mediator, to him that appointed him, being intrusted with all the elect of God, with all promises and blessings of grace for them, with the fulness of grace to communicate unto them, with the glory of God in their salvation, and with their future and final happiness; and is faithful in the discharge of his offices of prophet, priest, and King: and without iniquity; in his nature, in his heart, in his lips, and in his life; nor was ever any committed by him: just and right is he; just, both as a divine Person, and as man and Mediator; a lover and doer of righteousness, a worker out of righteousness for his people, and the justifier of them by it; just and righteous, as the, servant of God, as King of saints, and Judge of the whole world; "right" or "upright", which is the character of a divine Person, agrees with Christ, and may denote his sincerity, uprightness, and faithfulness. (k) "quod attinet ad rupem illam", Piscator; "rupes illa", Van Till; "rupes illa", Vitringa. (l) "Deus veritas", Pagninus, Montanus. (m) "Deus fidei", Vatablus, Cocceius; "Deus veritatis sive fidei", Vitringa.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
32:4 the Rock: This metaphor represents the Lord as strong, stable, and reliable; he is more than capable of providing righteousness and justice (see 32:15, 18, 30; Hab 1:12).
Deuteronomy 32:4
The Song of Moses
3For I will proclaim the name of the LORD. Ascribe greatness to our God! 4He is the Rock, His work is perfect; all His ways are just. A God of faithfulness without injustice, righteous and upright is He.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Where to Find Spiritual Reality & How to Get It
By Stephen Kaung1.0K1:08:46EXO 33:18EXO 34:5DEU 32:4PSA 31:5PSA 111:7PSA 119:142ISA 65:16JHN 17:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of spiritual reality and the need for believers to actively cooperate with the Holy Spirit. He explains that spiritual reality is not necessarily something spectacular, but rather a daily process of being led by the Spirit of Truth. The preacher highlights the role of discipline in this process, both through external circumstances and internal revelation. He encourages believers to surrender themselves to God and allow the cross to expose and cut off anything that is not real or of the old creation. The ultimate source of spiritual reality is found in God, specifically in Jesus Christ who became incarnate to make reality available to all believers. The preacher concludes by urging listeners to seek spiritual reality and not settle for deception or mere appearance.
The Duties of Parents
By J.C. Ryle0DEU 32:42SA 23:2PSA 19:7MAT 12:36JHN 14:6JHN 17:172TI 3:16HEB 3:72PE 1:211JN 5:7In this sermon, the preacher delves into the concept of divine inspiration of the Scriptures, emphasizing that every word of Scripture is God-breathed, not originating from human will but from the Holy Spirit. The sermon highlights the importance of recognizing the Bible as the voice of God to humanity, emphasizing its trustworthiness and authority. Various theologians and biblical figures are quoted to support the doctrine of the inspiration of Scripture, stressing that the Bible is the ultimate guide to divine truth and must be revered and obeyed.
Of the Holiness of God.
By John Gill0Divine PerfectionThe Holiness of GodEXO 15:11DEU 32:4PSA 27:4ISA 40:25JHN 17:112CO 7:11TH 4:7HEB 1:81PE 1:15REV 15:4John Gill emphasizes the holiness of God as an essential and immutable attribute that defines His nature and essence. He explains that God's holiness is the foundation of His perfection, distinguishing Him from all creation, which is inherently flawed. Gill illustrates how God's holiness is evident in His works of creation, providence, and grace, asserting that it is the source of all true righteousness and purity. He also highlights the holiness of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, affirming that all three persons of the Trinity share this divine attribute. Ultimately, Gill calls believers to reflect God's holiness in their lives, as they are called to be holy as He is holy.
Psalms 61:2
By Chuck Smith0Trusting in God's StrengthGod as Our RefugeDEU 32:42SA 22:2PSA 18:2PSA 31:3PSA 61:2PSA 62:6ISA 26:4MAT 7:24ROM 8:371CO 10:4Chuck Smith emphasizes the importance of turning to God as our refuge when we feel overwhelmed by life's pressures and stresses. He highlights that in moments of despair, we often seek help in the wrong places, leading to irreversible decisions. Smith encourages believers to cry out to God, asking Him to 'lead me to the rock that is higher than I,' which symbolizes strength, security, and life. He draws parallels from scripture, illustrating how God is our rock and source of sustenance. Ultimately, trusting in God as our rock empowers us to find strength and shelter in Him.
Commentary Notes - Deuteronomy
By Walter Beuttler0DEU 5:29DEU 7:9DEU 11:26DEU 28:15DEU 30:19DEU 31:6DEU 32:4DEU 33:1DEU 34:10Walter Beuttler preaches on the book of Deuteronomy, emphasizing its significance as 'The Second Law' given by Moses to the new generation of Israel before entering the promised land. The book serves as a historical and legislative record, highlighting the importance of obedience as a demonstration of love, gratitude, and recognition of God's sovereignty. The key theme of the book is obedience, with Moses urging Israel to keep the covenant of the Lord for their well-being and continued possession of the land.
The Unlikely Idol
By Evan Schaible0DEU 32:4PSA 85:10ISA 6:3JHN 3:16ROM 3:25ROM 5:8EPH 2:8COL 1:201JN 4:81JN 4:11Evan Schaible preaches about the danger of exalting love above all other attributes of God, emphasizing the importance of understanding God's holiness, justice, and mercy in conjunction with His love. He warns against falling into idolatry by distorting the true nature of God and neglecting His multifaceted character as revealed in Scripture. Through powerful imagery and biblical references, he urges believers to have a balanced view of God and to worship Him in spirit and truth, focusing on Jesus as the ultimate expression of God's love and salvation.
Letter 98
By James Bourne0GEN 28:16DEU 32:4PSA 65:5ISA 30:20JER 12:12CO 7:11James Bourne preaches to Mr. T. 0. about the importance of experiencing God's judgments and discipline, which reveal the hidden sins and inventions of our hearts. Through this communion with God, we are led to acknowledge His righteousness and sovereignty, even in times of fear and trembling. Bourne encourages embracing God's discipline as a means to grow in grace, knowledge, and spiritual maturity, despite the struggles and terrors that may accompany it.
Creation Versus Evolution
By E.W. Bullinger0GEN 1:1GEN 1:7GEN 1:17GEN 1:22GEN 1:31GEN 2:2DEU 32:4PSA 111:2REV 15:3E.W. Bullinger emphasizes in The Companion Bible the direct acts and volitions of God as the Creator in Genesis 1:1-2:3, highlighting the perfection, goodness, and wondrous nature of all God's works. He contrasts the principle of evolution seen in human affairs with the lack of evolution in God's works, showcasing growth and development within God's sphere. Bullinger addresses the challenge of Higher Criticism and the impact of evolutionary concepts on society, attributing present-day wickedness to satanic influences.
Letter 52
By James Bourne0DEU 32:4PSA 34:18ISA 43:22CO 1:41PE 5:6James Bourne reflects on the humbling journey of experiencing God's judgments and severe dispensations, leading to the destruction of self and the acknowledgment of God's mercy. Through much tribulation and crucifixions, he finds that God causes sorrow to pass away and reveals sweet blessings in the valley of humiliation. Bourne encourages seeking Christ's deliverance in every trouble, allowing difficulties to deepen the relationship with the Friend of sinners, who is a tried stone and a sure foundation.
Psalms 61:1
By Chuck Smith0Trust in GodFinding Refuge in ChristDEU 32:4PSA 18:2PSA 61:1ISA 26:3MAT 11:28ROM 8:281CO 10:42CO 12:9PHP 4:19HEB 4:16Chuck Smith emphasizes the importance of seeking refuge in God during overwhelming times, as illustrated in Psalms 61:1. He reflects on David's despair during Absalom's rebellion, reminding us that no matter how far we stray or how low we fall, God is always within reach, just a prayer away. Smith discusses the various circumstances that can lead us to feel overwhelmed and how God allows us to reach our limits to teach us to trust Him. Ultimately, he points to Jesus Christ as the Rock, our source of strength and shelter, encouraging us to come to Him for defense and support.
Starts Discussion of Second Commandment (Not to Take the Name of the Lord in Vain)
By Martin Luther0DEU 12:8DEU 32:4PSA 1:2PSA 18:3PSA 34:1PSA 50:15PSA 84:4PSA 116:13PRO 18:10ISA 48:11MAT 6:24Martin Luther delves into the importance of honoring God's Name and the Second Commandment, emphasizing that all works must be done in faith to truly honor and magnify God's glory. He highlights the significance of praising, preaching, and singing to exalt God's Name, stating that this work greatly strengthens faith and pleases God. Luther stresses the need to honor God's Name in the heart with genuine faith, rather than through mere outward displays, as true faith and confidence are experienced and felt in honoring God's Name. He warns against lightly esteeming the work of honoring God's Name, as it greatly helps to increase faith and strengthen the relationship with God.
Our Role and God's Role
By Mary Wilder Tileston0DEU 32:4PSA 23:1PSA 100:3PRO 3:5ISA 55:8JER 17:7ROM 8:28PHP 4:61PE 5:7Mary Wilder Tileston preaches about trusting in God's perfect work and judgment, highlighting His truthfulness, righteousness, and justice. As His people, we are compared to sheep in His pasture, under the care and guidance of the Lord, our shepherd. Just like in Psalm 23, even in the darkest valleys, we need not fear evil because God is with us, comforting and guiding us with His rod and staff. Jeremy Taylor's analogy questions whether there should be unrest among God's people when He, as the Lord and shepherd, chooses their paths and prevents them from straying into harmful territories. Samuel Rutherford emphasizes the importance of surrendering our duties and events to the Almighty, trusting in His providence and omnipotence, and finding approval in Him.
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
He is the Rock--a word expressive of power and stability. The application of it in this passage is to declare that God had been true to His covenant with their fathers and them. Nothing that He had promised had failed; so that if their national experience had been painfully checkered by severe and protracted trials, notwithstanding the brightest promises, that result was traceable to their own undutiful and perverse conduct; not to any vacillation or unfaithfulness on the part of God (Jam 1:17), whose procedure was marked by justice and judgment, whether they had been exalted to prosperity or plunged into the depths of affliction.
John Gill Bible Commentary
He is the rock,.... That is, Jehovah is the rock, whose name Moses proposed to publish; and our God, to whom the heavens and the earth are called upon to ascribe greatness, even Christ the rock of salvation: here begins the song; the first word in it is very emphatic; it has a letter in it larger than usual, to denote the greatness of this Person, and to make it observable; he is "this" or "that rock" (k), by way of eminence, that rock and stone of Israel, Jacob prophesied of, which was typified by the rock Moses had smitten in the wilderness, and which, no doubt, he knew, as the Apostle Paul did, that it was a type of Christ, and had taught the Israelites so to understand it; and therefore this epithet of a divine Person would not seem strange to them, and yet is that rock the unbelieving Jews would and did stumble at, and the rock of salvation they lightly esteemed and rejected; the rock of refuge for sensible sinners to flee unto for shelter and safety from the wrath and justice of God, and from every enemy; the rock the church of God and every believer are built upon, and in which they dwell; and who is the rock of ages that will endure forever, as the Saviour of his people, and the foundation of their faith and hope: his work is perfect; not so much the work of creation or of providence, which are both the works of Christ, but that of redemption and salvation, in which there is not only a display of all the divine perfections, but is complete in all its parts; the law is perfectly fulfilled, justice is fully satisfied, a perfect righteousness is wrought out, a complete pardon is procured, perfect peace is made, full atonement of sins obtained, and the whole work is finished; and is so perfect that nothing is wanting in it, or can be added to it, nor can it be unravelled or undone again: likewise the work of building the church on this rock is carrying on, and will be perfected when all the elect of God, all given to Christ and redeemed by his blood, shall be called by grace and gathered in; when the last of the chosen ones, and redeemed of the Lamb, is brought in and laid in the building; when Christ shall deliver up the kingdom to the Father complete, and God shall be all in all, and his church and people will be in a perfect state to all eternity: for all his ways are judgment; his ways, which he himself has taken and walked in; his ways of providence are according to the best judgment and highest wisdom, and according to the strictest justice and equity; his ways of grace towards the salvation of his people, and the building up his church on himself, the rock; all the methods he took in eternity and time were all formed according to the counsel of God, and planned with the greatest wisdom, founded in his righteous nature, and according to covenant compact with his Father, and entered into in the most honourable manner; and in which he brought about the salvation of his people, in perfect consistence with the justice and holiness of God, and to the honour of them and his holy law: and he has executed all his offices of prophet, priest, and King, in the most just and righteous manner: the ways which he has prescribed his people to walk in, and in which he leads them, are ways of truth, righteousness, and holiness; such are all his ordinances and commandments: a God of truth; so Christ is called; see Gill on Isa 65:16; or the true God, which also is his name, Jo1 5:20; and is so called in opposition to fictitious deities, and such who are only so by name or office, but not by nature; whereas he is truly and properly God, as appears from his names and nature, from his perfections, works, and worship, ascribed to him: or "God the truth" (l), for he is "the truth", Joh 14:6; the truth of all types, promises, and prophecies, which all have their accomplishment in him; the sum and substance of all truths and doctrines, from whom they all come, and in whom they all centre: or "the God of faith" or "faithfulness" (m); the object of faith, and the author and finisher of it; and who is faithful, as the God-man and Mediator, to him that appointed him, being intrusted with all the elect of God, with all promises and blessings of grace for them, with the fulness of grace to communicate unto them, with the glory of God in their salvation, and with their future and final happiness; and is faithful in the discharge of his offices of prophet, priest, and King: and without iniquity; in his nature, in his heart, in his lips, and in his life; nor was ever any committed by him: just and right is he; just, both as a divine Person, and as man and Mediator; a lover and doer of righteousness, a worker out of righteousness for his people, and the justifier of them by it; just and righteous, as the, servant of God, as King of saints, and Judge of the whole world; "right" or "upright", which is the character of a divine Person, agrees with Christ, and may denote his sincerity, uprightness, and faithfulness. (k) "quod attinet ad rupem illam", Piscator; "rupes illa", Van Till; "rupes illa", Vitringa. (l) "Deus veritas", Pagninus, Montanus. (m) "Deus fidei", Vatablus, Cocceius; "Deus veritatis sive fidei", Vitringa.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
32:4 the Rock: This metaphor represents the Lord as strong, stable, and reliable; he is more than capable of providing righteousness and justice (see 32:15, 18, 30; Hab 1:12).