Deuteronomy 4:33 - Clarke's commentary and critical notes on the Bible

Bible Comments

Did ever people hear the voice of God speaking out of the midst of the fire, as thou hast heard, and live? Did ever people hear the voice of God - It seems to have been a general belief that if God appeared to men, it was for the purpose of destroying them; and indeed most of the extraordinary manifestations of God were in the way of judgment; but here it was different; God did appear in a sovereign and extraordinary manner; but it was for the deliverance and support of the people.

1. They heard his voice speaking with them in a distinct, articulate manner.

2. They saw the fire, the symbol of his presence, the appearances of which demonstrated it to be supernatural.

3. Notwithstanding God appeared so terrible, yet no person was destroyed, for he came, not to destroy, but to save.

Deuteronomy 4:33

33 Did ever people hear the voice of God speaking out of the midst of the fire, as thou hast heard, and live?