Deuteronomy 6:1-3

Exhortation to observe the principles 6:1-3

These verses announce the commandments that follow and give the reason for obeying them: God’s blessing. God’s blessing would come in the form of long life, peace and prosperity, and numerous descendants. The "fear" of God (Deuteronomy 6:2; cf. Deuteronomy 5:29, 35 (Deuteronomy 6:2); et al.) is the respect that comes from an appreciation of His character.

"It is a fear that produces not obeisance but obedience, not worry but worship (Deuteronomy 6:13)." [Note: Sailhamer, p. 439.]

"Israel’s continued enjoyment of a habitation in God’s land, like Adam’s continued enjoyment of the original paradise, depended on continued fidelity to the Lord." [Note: Kline, "Deuteronomy," p. 163.]