Deuteronomy 13:2 Meaning and Explanation
“And the sign or the wonder come to pass, whereof he spake unto thee, saying, Let us go after other gods, which thou hast not known, and let us serve them;”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →A false prophet's sign may come true, but his direction—toward other gods—contradicts Israel's covenant.
The Context of Deuteronomy 13:2
The false prophet's message—to abandon covenant faithfulness for other gods—reveals his true nature regardless of his supernatural credentials.
What Does Deuteronomy 13:2 Mean?
The critical test is not whether a miracle occurs. Even if a prophet's predicted sign materializes exactly as announced, the test turns on the destination of his teaching. If he urges Israel toward gods outside the covenant—toward the unknown deities of surrounding nations—then his sign, however real, is a trap.
This principle establishes doctrine as supreme over phenomena. A genuine sign from the true God will not lead away from the true God. The test protects Israel from mistaking coincidence, deception, or demonic counterfeit for divine validation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Deuteronomy 13:2
What does Deuteronomy 13:2 mean?
A false prophet's sign may come true, but his direction—toward other gods—contradicts Israel's covenant.
What is the context of Deuteronomy 13:2?
The false prophet's message—to abandon covenant faithfulness for other gods—reveals his true nature regardless of his supernatural credentials.