Deuteronomy 6:15Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

He is our Lord and God, who eliminates all impurity - 'a jealous God' (Deuteronomy 4:24). Generally, God revealed Himself to the Israelites as a caring Father devoted to their growth in holiness and virtue, gracious, compassionate, and generous when they followed His ways. However, He closely observed their actions, ready to admonish and discipline anyone who deliberately defied Him, forgiving those who repented but ensuring that the obstinate would not go unpunished. This manner of divine engagement was evident in all the trials and transgressions of Israel during their journey through the wilderness. When the Israelites contemplated God in His usual grandeur, their hearts were filled with reverent fear, fully captured by their watchfulness before Him (Lev. 18:10, Lev. 22:9, Num. 1:53, among others). "That thou mayest fear... for the Lord your God is a jealous God in your midst; lest the Lord your God be angry with you, and destroy you."