Deuteronomy 19:9

and if you carefully keep all these commandments I am giving you today, loving the LORD your God and walking in His ways at all times, then you are to add three more cities to these three.

Study Bible

if you carefully observe
The Hebrew root for "observe" is "שָׁמַר" (shamar), which means to guard, keep, or watch over. This implies a diligent and intentional effort to adhere to God's commandments. In the historical context, this was a call to the Israelites to be vigilant in their obedience, reflecting a heart fully committed to God's laws. It underscores the importance of not just passive acknowledgment but active engagement with God's word.

all these commandments
The phrase emphasizes the totality and completeness of God's law. The Hebrew word for "commandments" is "מִצְוָה" (mitzvah), which refers to the divine laws given to guide the moral and spiritual life of the Israelites. This comprehensive adherence is a testament to the covenant relationship between God and His people, where obedience is a response to God's faithfulness and love.

I am giving you today
This phrase highlights the immediacy and relevance of God's commandments. The use of "today" signifies that God's word is ever-present and applicable in the current moment. It serves as a reminder that God's instructions are not just historical artifacts but living words meant to guide daily life.

to love the LORD your God
The Hebrew word for "love" is "אָהַב" (ahav), which conveys deep affection and commitment. Loving God is the foundation of the commandments, indicating that obedience is not merely a legalistic duty but a relational response. This love is central to the covenant, calling for a heartfelt devotion that permeates every aspect of life.

to walk always in His ways
"Walk" in Hebrew is "הָלַךְ" (halak), which means to go or proceed. This metaphorical use suggests living a life that consistently aligns with God's character and commands. "His ways" refers to the path of righteousness and holiness that God sets before His people. It is a call to a lifestyle that reflects God's nature and purposes.

then you are to add three more cities
This instruction is part of the provision for cities of refuge, which were places of asylum for those who committed unintentional manslaughter. The addition of more cities signifies God's justice and mercy, ensuring that His people have access to protection and fairness. It reflects the societal structure that God intended for Israel, where justice is tempered with compassion.

to these three
The reference to "these three" cities connects to the earlier command to establish cities of refuge. It underscores the importance of expanding justice and mercy as the nation grows. This expansion is a practical application of God's law, ensuring that His principles of justice are accessible to all, reflecting His desire for a society built on righteousness and care for the vulnerable.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who is delivering God's commandments to the people.

2. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, receiving the law as they prepare to enter the Promised Land.

3. The Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which God promised to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

4. Cities of Refuge
Designated cities where someone who has killed another unintentionally can flee for safety.

5. The LORD (Yahweh)
The God of Israel, who is giving these commandments through Moses.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Commandments
The verse emphasizes the importance of carefully observing God's commandments as a condition for receiving His promises.

Love and Relationship with God
Loving the LORD and walking in His ways is central to the covenant relationship between God and His people.

Justice and Mercy
The provision of additional cities of refuge highlights God's concern for justice tempered with mercy, providing protection for those who have unintentionally caused harm.

Expansion of God's Provision
The command to add more cities as the nation grows reflects God's foresight and care for His people’s needs.

Faithfulness and Blessing
The promise of additional cities is contingent upon the Israelites' faithfulness, illustrating the principle that obedience leads to blessing.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the command to love the LORD and walk in His ways relate to the establishment of cities of refuge?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of justice tempered with mercy in our own lives today?

3. How does the concept of cities of refuge reflect God's character and His care for His people?

4. What are some modern-day equivalents to the cities of refuge, and how can they serve a similar purpose?

5. How does the promise of additional cities of refuge upon obedience encourage us to remain faithful to God's commandments?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 20
This chapter describes the actual establishment of the cities of refuge once the Israelites are in the Promised Land, fulfilling the command given in Deuteronomy.

Exodus 21:13
Provides the initial law regarding cities of refuge, emphasizing God's provision for justice and mercy.

Numbers 35
Offers detailed instructions about the cities of refuge, including their purpose and function.

Matthew 22:37-40
Jesus summarizes the law as loving God and loving your neighbor, which aligns with the command to love the LORD and walk in His ways.