Old Testament
Deuteronomy 21:20
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
They must tell the elders, "This son of ours is stubborn and rebellious. He refuses to obey us. He's a glutton and a drunkard."
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And they shall say unto the elders of his city, This our son is stubborn and rebellious, he will not obey our voice; he is a glutton, and a drunkard.
What Deuteronomy 21:20 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, parents are expressing their deep frustration to the community leaders about their son. They describe him as stubborn and rebellious, indicating that he consistently disobeys their guidance. His behavior is so troubling that they label him a glutton and a drunkard, suggesting he indulges excessively in food and drink. This situation highlights the seriousness of a child's actions and the impact on family and community. The parents feel helpless and are seeking support from the elders, showing the importance of community in addressing family issues. This scenario serves as a reminder of the responsibilities that come with freedom and the consequences of poor choices. It emphasizes the need for accountability and the role of parents in guiding their children toward better paths. Ultimately, it reflects the struggle between youthful rebellion and the expectations of society, urging us to consider how we respond to those who stray from the right path and how we can help them find their way back.
How to apply Deuteronomy 21:20 to your life
When faced with difficult behavior from loved ones, it's essential to seek help and support from trusted individuals. Open communication can lead to understanding and solutions. Remember, everyone makes mistakes, and it's important to approach these situations with compassion and a desire to help rather than to punish. It’s about guiding them back to a better path together. Be proactive in fostering positive relationships and encouraging good choices.
Curated for this public verse page. Deuteronomy Summary
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At a Glance — the Book of Deuteronomy
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites about to enter the Promised Land
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Deuteronomy 21:20 say about rebellious children?
Deuteronomy 21:20 describes a situation where parents bring their rebellious son before the elders of the city. They label him as stubborn, disobedient, a glutton, and a drunkard, indicating serious concerns about his behavior. This verse illustrates the gravity of a child's actions and the impact on family and community, emphasizing the need for accountability and guidance.
How should parents respond to a rebellious child according to this verse?
While Deuteronomy 21:20 presents a severe response to rebellion, it highlights the importance of seeking help from the community. Parents are encouraged to communicate openly about their struggles and seek support from trusted individuals, such as elders or community leaders, to address their child's behavior constructively.
What lessons can we learn from the parents in Deuteronomy 21:20?
The parents in Deuteronomy 21:20 demonstrate the importance of accountability and the role of community in addressing family issues. They show that when faced with difficult behavior, it is crucial to seek support rather than handle everything alone. This teaches us the value of open communication and the need for guidance in helping loved ones make better choices.
How can communities support families dealing with rebellious children?
Communities can support families by fostering open communication and providing resources for guidance and counseling. Encouraging parents to share their struggles and seek help from trusted community leaders can create a supportive environment. Additionally, community programs that promote positive behavior and accountability can help guide children back to healthier paths.
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