Deuteronomy 18:19Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Despite the emergence of numerous prophets and the persistent disobedience of the Jewish people toward them, they faced no repercussions for their actions. However, due to their rejection of Christ, they now find themselves wandering aimlessly and stripped of their homes, living as fugitives and outcasts. Observe how they are deprived of their national identity, along with the paternal laws and traditions, resulting in their dishonor and disgrace; they endure punishment and torment. The suffering they experienced under the rule of Vespasian and Titus is beyond description, illustrating a tragedy that surpasses all other adversities. Thus, the prophetic declaration comes to fruition: "Whosoever will not hearken to my words, which that prophet shall speak, him will I charge."

However, since he expanded on what he previously stated: ‘And the man that heareth not all that that prophet saith in my name, I will charge him,’ let the foolish individuals among the Jews, as well as those who harden their hearts in willful defiance, recognize that they are bringing ruin upon themselves. They will face the divine judgment, and as a consequence of their hostility towards Christ, they will suffer total loss of all blessings, ‘for if they had believed Moses, they would have believed Christ, for of Him he wrote’ (John 5:46).