Deuteronomy 13

Deuteronomy 13:1

G. Punishment of False Prophets and Idolaters (Chap. 13)Individuals or groups which might tempt God’s people to practice idolatry were to be stoned to death, whether a prophet (vv. 1-5), a near relative (vv. 6-11), or a community (vv. 12-18). A prophet who encouraged people into idolatry was not to be followed, even if some miracle he predicted came to pass. Such a person was a false prophet, and he must be put to death. Even if a close relative enticed his family to practice idolatry, he too was to be slain. The corrupt men of verse 13 were base fellows, or “sons of worthlessness” (Heb. beleeyya`al). Any such gang which led the people of their city away from God to idols should be killed, together with the inhabitants of that city, and the city should be burned. The same treatment was to be meted out to an idolatrous Israelite city as to the Canaanite citiesnamely, total destruction. God is not partial; He will deal severely with sin, even among His chosen people. But His motives are different. In the case involving a Jewish city His motive would be fatherly discipline, with a view to correction of the nation as a whole.