Old Testament
Deuteronomy 17:10
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, God instructs the people to follow the decisions made by their leaders, who are chosen by Him.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites about to enter the Promised Land
You must carry out whatever decision they hand down from the place the LORD chooses. Be careful to follow everything they instruct you to do.
And thou shalt do according to the sentence, which they of that place which the LORD shall choose shall shew thee; and thou shalt observe to do according to all that they inform thee:
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, God instructs the people to follow the decisions made by their leaders, who are chosen by Him. This emphasizes the importance of respecting authority and adhering to the guidance provided by those in charge. It’s a reminder that these leaders are meant to help maintain order and justice within the community. By following their instructions, the people show their commitment to God’s will and the structure He has established. This verse encourages individuals to trust in the process and the wisdom of their leaders, as long as it aligns with God’s principles. It’s about being diligent and careful in how one lives out these instructions, ensuring that they are not just heard but actively followed. Ultimately, this guidance is meant to lead to a harmonious and just society, reflecting God’s intentions for His people. The call to action here is clear: take the teachings seriously and implement them in daily life, fostering a community that honors God’s design.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Deuteronomy 17:10 to your life
To apply this verse, consider how you respond to authority in your life. Are you respectful and willing to follow guidance that aligns with your values? Reflect on the leaders in your community and how their decisions impact you. Engage with them positively and constructively, fostering a spirit of cooperation and understanding. This can lead to a more supportive environment for everyone involved.
Curated for this public verse page. Deuteronomy Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Deuteronomy 17:10 mean?
Deuteronomy 17:10 instructs the people to follow the decisions made by their leaders chosen by God. It emphasizes the importance of respecting authority and adhering to the guidance provided by those in charge.
What is the meaning of authority in Deuteronomy 17:10?
In Deuteronomy 17:10, authority refers to the leaders appointed by God who are responsible for making decisions for the community. The verse highlights the need for the people to respect and follow their guidance to maintain order and justice.
How can I apply Deuteronomy 17:10 in my life?
To apply Deuteronomy 17:10, reflect on how you respond to authority figures in your life. Engage positively with leaders in your community and be willing to follow guidance that aligns with your values.
What themes are present in Deuteronomy 17:10?
The themes present in Deuteronomy 17:10 include authority, obedience, community, justice, and guidance. These themes highlight the importance of following leadership to foster a just and orderly society.

The Book of Deuteronomy
Deuteronomy 1: Moses Reviews the Wilderness Journey
Moses speaks to all Israel in the plains of Moab and recalls earlier events. He says the LORD tells Israel to leave Horeb and go toward the land promised to their fathers: Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Moses explains how the people become too numerous for him to manage alone, so leaders are appointed over thousands, hundreds, fifties, and tens, and judges are instructed to judge fairly without respect of persons.
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