◄ Deuteronomy 7 ►
Book Sum People Lessons Que
Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
Drive Out the Nations 1When the LORD your God brings you into the land that you are entering to possess, and He drives out before you many nations—the Hittites, Girgashites, Amorites, Canaanites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites, seven nations larger and stronger than you— 2and when the LORD your God has delivered them over to you to defeat them, then you must devote them to complete destruction.a Make no treatyb with them and show them no mercy. 3Do not intermarry with them. Do not give your daughters to their sons or take their daughters for your sons, 4because they will turn your sons away from following Me to serve other gods. Then the anger of the LORD will burn against you, and He will swiftly destroy you. 5Instead, this is what you are to do to them: tear down their altars, smash their sacred pillars, cut down their Asherah poles, and burn their idols in the fire. 6For you are a people holy to the LORD your God. The LORD your God has chosen you to be a people for His prized possession out of all peoples on the face of the earth. 7The LORD did not set His affection on you and choose you because you were more numerous than the other peoples, for you were the fewest of all peoples. 8But because the LORD loved you and kept the oath He swore to your fathers, He brought you out with a mighty hand and redeemed you from the house of slavery, from the hand of Pharaoh king of Egypt. 9Know therefore that the LORD your God is God, the faithful God who keeps His covenant of loving devotion for a thousand generations of those who love Him and keep His commandments. 10But those who hate Him He repays to their faces with destruction; He will not hesitate to repay to his face the one who hates Him. 11So keep the commandments and statutes and ordinances that I am giving you to follow this day. The Promises of God (Exodus 23:20–33) 12If you listen to these ordinances and keep them carefully, then the LORD your God will keep His covenant and the loving devotion that He swore to your fathers. 13He will love you and bless you and multiply you. He will bless the fruit of your womb and the produce of your land—your grain, new wine, and oil, the young of your herds and the lambs of your flocks—in the land that He swore to your fathers to give you. 14You will be blessed above all peoples; among you there will be no barren man or woman or livestock. 15And the LORD will remove from you all sickness. He will not lay upon you any of the terrible diseases you knew in Egypt, but He will inflict them on all who hate you. 16You must destroy all the peoples the LORD your God will deliver to you. Do not look on them with pity. Do not worship their gods, for that will be a snare to you. 17You may say in your heart, “These nations are greater than we are; how can we drive them out?” 18But do not be afraid of them. Be sure to remember what the LORD your God did to Pharaoh and all Egypt: 19the great trials that you saw, the signs and wonders, and the mighty hand and outstretched arm by which the LORD your God brought you out. The LORD your God will do the same to all the peoples you now fear. 20Moreover, the LORD your God will send the hornet against them until even the survivors hiding from you have perished. 21Do not be terrified by them, for the LORD your God, who is among you, is a great and awesome God. 22The LORD your God will drive out these nations before you little by little. You will not be enabled to eliminate them all at once, or the wild animals would multiply around you. 23But the LORD your God will give them over to you and throw them into great confusion, until they are destroyed. 24He will hand their kings over to you, and you will wipe out their names from under heaven. No one will be able to stand against you; you will annihilate them. 25You must burn up the images of their gods; do not covet the silver and gold that is on them or take it for yourselves, or you will be ensnared by it; for it is detestable to the LORD your God. 26And you must not bring any detestable thing into your house, or you, like it, will be set apart for destruction. You are to utterly detest and abhor it, because it is set apart for destruction. Footnotes: 2 a Forms of the Hebrew cherem refer to the giving over of things or persons to the LORD, either by destroying them or by giving them as an offering; also twice in verse 26. 2 b Forms of the Hebrew berit are translated in most passages as covenant. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Deuteronomy 7 Summary Drive Out the Nations Verses 1–5 – Purging the Land Israel is commanded to eradicate seven larger nations, refuse treaties or marriages with them, and destroy every form of idol worship so that no snare remains to tempt the people. Verses 6–11 – A People Set Apart The nation is reminded that its holiness rests on God’s sovereign choice and faithful love. He did not choose Israel for its size but because He loved their fathers and keeps His oath. Love for Him must be shown through obedience. Verses 12–16 – Blessings for Obedience If Israel obeys, God promises abundant harvests, fertility, health, and victory over enemies. None of the diseases of Egypt will cling to them, while their foes will face those plagues. Verses 17–21 – Confidence in the Lord’s Power Though the Canaanites seem numerous, Israel must recall the Exodus and trust that God will again act with “mighty hand and outstretched arm.” Fear is forbidden; reverence for God drives it out. Verses 22–26 – Final Instructions on Idolatry Conquest will be gradual to prevent ecological ruin, yet every idol must be burned. The precious metals on pagan images are banned from personal use—bringing them home would bring a curse instead of blessing. In Deuteronomy 7, the children of Israel receive direct commands from God through Moses. As they stand at the edge of the Promised Land, God reminds them of their unique position as His chosen people. With this privilege, they are tasked with responsibilities, especially towards idolatry and staying pure in their worship. Historical Setting and the Seven Nations • Hittites, Girgashites, Amorites, Canaanites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites formed a network of fortified city–states spread from the Lebanon range to the Negev. • Clay tablets from Ugarit (c. 1400 BC) describe Canaanite worship of Baal, Asherah, and Molech—religions steeped in temple prostitution and child sacrifice, practices God calls “abominations” (Leviticus 18:21; 20:2–3). • The command, “you must devote them to destruction” (Deuteronomy 7:2), is judicial. After four centuries of patience (Genesis 15:16) God now brings verdict and sentence. Destruction of Altars, Stones, and Asherah Poles • Excavations at Hazor and Megiddo reveal basalt stelae and wooden post-holes that align with biblical Asherah poles. • Removing religious artifacts signifies a clean break; no compromise is permitted. Exodus 34:13–14 had given the same charge shortly after the Golden Calf disaster. • Paul echoes the principle for believers: “What agreement can exist between the temple of God and idols?” (2 Corinthians 6:16). Chosen Yet Small—The Theme of Grace • “The LORD set His affection on you … because the LORD loved you and kept the oath He swore to your fathers” (7:7-8). • The pattern persists: God’s choice precedes human merit—seen in God’s call of Abram (Genesis 12) and the selection of David (1 Samuel 16:7). • In the New Covenant the same grace is celebrated: “We love because He first loved us” (1 John 4:19). Blessings Linked to Covenant Loyalty • Agricultural fertility: “He will bless the fruit of your womb and the produce of your land” (7:13). • Political security: “The LORD will lay the dread of you on all nations” (7:24). • Physical health: “The LORD will remove from you all sickness” (7:15). Ancient Near-Eastern treaties tied obedience to reward; Deuteronomy mirrors that form, but the suzerain here is the loving God of Israel, not a human king. Gradual Conquest—Practical Wisdom • 7:22 explains why victory comes “little by little”—to keep wild animals and empty cities from overrunning the land (see also Exodus 23:29-30). • Joshua 13 records remaining territories after years of war, confirming that the process unfolded over decades. Archaeological Side Lights • The “burning of idols with fire” (7:25) is corroborated by layers of ash found at sites like Lachish Level VI, indicating cultic centers were torched. • Egyptian medical papyri mention diseases of livestock and people; God’s promise in 7:15 contrasts His care with Egypt’s plagues. Cross-Scripture Connections • Covenant continuity: Deuteronomy 7 parallels the earlier covenant renewal in Exodus 19–24 and anticipates Joshua 24. • Prophetic echoes: Hosea compares Israel’s later idolatry to marital unfaithfulness, showing why Moses’ stern warnings mattered. • New Testament linkage: Peter calls believers “a chosen people, a royal priesthood” (1 Peter 2:9), borrowing language from Deuteronomy 7:6. Timeless Lessons 1. Holiness requires separation from anything that competes for God’s loyalty. 2. Obedience flows out of gratitude for unearned love, not a bid to earn it. 3. Remembering past deliverance fuels present courage. 4. God’s plans often unfold progressively; patience partners with faith. 5. Even objects can carry spiritual compromise—so guard the heart and the home. Key Verse to Memorize “For you are a people holy to the LORD your God; the LORD your God has chosen you to be His treasured possession out of all the peoples on the face of the earth.” (Deuteronomy 7:6) Connections to Additional Scriptures 1 Peter 2:9 But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession. 2 Corinthians 6:17 Therefore come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord. Joshua 23:6-8 Encouragement to remain faithful to God and avoid alliances with other nations. Teaching Points God's Command for Separation When the LORD your God brings you into the land you are entering to possess, and He drives out before you many nations... you must not intermarry with them (Deuteronomy 7:1-3). God commands the Israelites to avoid alliances with pagan nations to prevent spiritual corruption. Chosen People For you are a people holy to the LORD your God. The LORD your God has chosen you to be a people for His prized possession (Deuteronomy 7:6). The Israelites are reminded of their unique status as God's chosen people, set apart for His purposes. God's Faithfulness But it is because the LORD loves you and is keeping the oath He swore to your fathers (Deuteronomy 7:8). God's actions are rooted in His love and faithfulness to His promises. Blessings for Obedience He will love you and bless you and multiply you (Deuteronomy 7:13). Obedience to God's commands brings blessings and prosperity. Destruction of Idols You must burn up the carved images of their gods (Deuteronomy 7:25). God instructs the Israelites to destroy all forms of idolatry to maintain spiritual purity. Practical Applications Guard Your Heart Just as the Israelites were to avoid pagan influences, we must guard our hearts against worldly temptations that can lead us away from God. Embrace Your Identity Recognize and embrace your identity as a chosen child of God, living a life that reflects His holiness. Trust in God's Promises Remember that God's faithfulness is unwavering. Trust in His promises, even when circumstances seem challenging. Pursue Obedience Strive to obey God's commands, knowing that His blessings follow a life of obedience. Eliminate Idols Identify and remove any idols in your life that compete with your devotion to God. People 1. Hittites One of the seven nations mentioned that inhabited the land of Canaan. The Hittites were an ancient people known for their advanced civilization and are often associated with the region of Anatolia. 2. Girgashites Another of the nations listed. The Girgashites are less well-documented historically, but they are consistently mentioned among the Canaanite tribes in biblical texts. 3. Amorites A prominent group in the ancient Near East, the Amorites are frequently mentioned in the Bible as inhabitants of Canaan. They were known for their fortified cities and influence in the region. 4. Canaanites This term often refers broadly to the inhabitants of Canaan, but it is also used specifically for one of the distinct groups within the land. The Canaanites were known for their polytheistic religion and culture. 5. Perizzites A group mentioned among the Canaanite tribes. The Perizzites are often described as rural dwellers, living in unfortified villages. 6. Hivites Another Canaanite group, the Hivites are mentioned in various parts of the Old Testament. They are sometimes associated with the region around Shechem and Gibeon. 7. Jebusites Known as the original inhabitants of Jerusalem, the Jebusites were a significant group in the land of Canaan. They are noted for their stronghold in Jerusalem, which was later conquered by King David. Places 1. Hittites The Hittites were an ancient group known for their powerful empire in Anatolia (modern-day Turkey). In the context of Deuteronomy 7, they are one of the nations inhabiting the land that God promises to the Israelites. The Hebrew term for Hittites is "חִתִּי" (Hitti). 2. Girgashites The Girgashites are one of the lesser-known Canaanite tribes mentioned in the Bible. They are listed among the nations that the Israelites are to drive out. The Hebrew term is "גִּרְגָּשִׁי" (Girgashi). 3. Amorites The Amorites were a prominent ancient Semitic-speaking people known for their influence in the Near East. In Deuteronomy 7, they are one of the nations that the Israelites are commanded to conquer. The Hebrew term is "אֱמֹרִי" (Emori). 4. Canaanites The Canaanites were the original inhabitants of the land of Canaan, which is the region promised to the Israelites. They are frequently mentioned throughout the Old Testament. The Hebrew term is "כְּנַעֲנִי" (Kena'ani). 5. Perizzites The Perizzites are another group of people living in the land of Canaan. They are often mentioned alongside other Canaanite tribes. The Hebrew term is "פְּרִזִּי" (Perizzi). 6. Hivites The Hivites are one of the Canaanite tribes that the Israelites are instructed to dispossess. They are mentioned in various parts of the Old Testament. The Hebrew term is "חִוִּי" (Chivvi). 7. Jebusites The Jebusites were the inhabitants of Jerusalem before it was conquered by King David. They are included in the list of nations in Deuteronomy 7. The Hebrew term is "יְבוּסִי" (Yevusi). Events 1. Command to Destroy the Nations God instructs the Israelites to completely destroy the seven nations greater and mightier than themselves when they enter the Promised Land. This command emphasizes the need for total destruction to prevent the Israelites from being led astray. The Hebrew word used here for "destroy" is "חָרַם" (charam), which implies a complete and utter destruction. 2. Prohibition Against Intermarriage The Israelites are forbidden from intermarrying with the people of these nations. This prohibition is to prevent them from turning away from God to serve other gods. The Hebrew root "נָשָׂא" (nasa) is used here, meaning to lift or carry, indicating the seriousness of taking foreign spouses. 3. Destruction of Pagan Altars God commands the Israelites to tear down the altars, smash the sacred stones, cut down the Asherah poles, and burn the idols with fire. This act is to purify the land from idolatry. The Hebrew word "שָׁבַר" (shabar) for "smash" conveys a sense of breaking into pieces. 4. Chosen as a Holy People The Israelites are reminded that they are a holy people chosen by God to be His treasured possession. This is not because of their number or might, but because of God's love and the oath He swore to their ancestors. The Hebrew term "סְגֻלָּה" (segullah) is used for "treasured possession," indicating a special, valued property. 5. God's Faithfulness and Covenant God is described as faithful, keeping His covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love Him and keep His commandments. The Hebrew word "אֱמוּנָה" (emunah) for "faithfulness" underscores reliability and steadfastness. 6. Warning Against Disobedience A warning is given that God will repay those who hate Him to their face by destroying them. This serves as a caution against disobedience and turning away from God. The Hebrew root "שָׁלַם" (shalam) is used for "repay," indicating a sense of recompense or making whole. 7. Promise of Blessing for Obedience God promises to bless the Israelites with love, fertility, and prosperity if they obey His commandments. This includes blessings on their offspring, crops, and livestock. The Hebrew word "בָּרַךְ" (barak) for "bless" conveys the idea of endowing with power for success. 8. Assurance of Victory Over Enemies God assures the Israelites that He will drive out the nations before them little by little, and they will not be able to stand against them. This gradual process is to prevent the land from becoming desolate and overrun by wild animals. The Hebrew word "יָרַשׁ" (yarash) for "drive out" implies taking possession or inheriting. 9. Prohibition Against Idolatry The Israelites are instructed not to covet the silver or gold on the idols, nor bring any detestable thing into their homes, as it is set apart for destruction. The Hebrew word "תּוֹעֵבָה" (toebah) for "detestable" indicates something abominable or loathsome. Lessons from Deuteronomy 7 1. Trust in God's Promises Deuteronomy 7 reminds us of the unwavering faithfulness of God. He promises to deliver the Israelites from their enemies, just as He promises to be with us in our daily battles. "The LORD your God will drive out those nations before you, little by little" (Deuteronomy 7:22). Trusting in His promises means believing that He is actively working for our good, even when we can't see the full picture. 2. Embrace Obedience Obedience is not just a duty; it's a pathway to blessings. God instructs the Israelites to follow His commands diligently, promising that He will "keep His covenant of loving devotion" (Deuteronomy 7:9). When we align our actions with His Word, we open the door to His abundant grace and favor in our lives. 3. Reject Compromise The chapter warns against making covenants with the inhabitants of the land, urging the Israelites to remain distinct and holy. "Do not intermarry with them" (Deuteronomy 7:3). This teaches us the importance of maintaining our spiritual integrity and not compromising our values, even when the world pressures us to conform. 4. Destroy Idols God commands the destruction of idols, emphasizing the need to remove anything that takes His place in our hearts. "You must tear down their altars, smash their sacred stones" (Deuteronomy 7:5). In our lives, this means identifying and eliminating distractions or habits that hinder our relationship with Him. 5. Recognize Your Chosen Status The Israelites were chosen by God, not because of their size or strength, but because of His love. "The LORD has chosen you to be a people for His prized possession" (Deuteronomy 7:6). We, too, are chosen and cherished by God, called to live out our unique purpose with confidence and joy. 6. Rely on God's Strength Facing formidable foes, the Israelites were reminded that victory comes from God. "Do not be afraid of them, for the LORD your God, who brought you out of Egypt, is with you" (Deuteronomy 7:18). In our challenges, we can rely on His strength, knowing that He is our mighty deliverer. 7. Experience God's Faithfulness God's faithfulness is a recurring theme, as He keeps His covenant and shows loving devotion to those who love Him. "He is the faithful God" (Deuteronomy 7:9). Reflecting on His past faithfulness encourages us to trust Him with our future, knowing He never changes. 8. Cultivate a Heart of Gratitude The chapter highlights the blessings that come from obedience, encouraging a heart of gratitude. "He will love you and bless you and multiply you" (Deuteronomy 7:13). Recognizing God's blessings in our lives fosters a spirit of thankfulness and contentment. 9. Practice Patience God's plan unfolds in His perfect timing, as seen in His promise to drive out the nations "little by little" (Deuteronomy 7:22). Patience is a virtue that allows us to trust in His timing, knowing that He is orchestrating everything for our ultimate good. 10. Live with Purpose Finally, Deuteronomy 7 calls us to live with purpose, as a people set apart for God. "You are a holy people to the LORD your God" (Deuteronomy 7:6). Embracing our identity in Christ empowers us to live intentionally, shining His light in a world that desperately needs hope. Topics 1. Command to Destroy the Nations (Deuteronomy 7:1-2) God instructs the Israelites to completely destroy the seven nations in the land of Canaan. The Hebrew word for "destroy" (הַחֲרֵם, "harem") implies a total devotion to destruction, emphasizing the need for complete separation from these nations. 2. Prohibition of Intermarriage (Deuteronomy 7:3-4) The Israelites are forbidden to intermarry with the Canaanites to prevent turning away from God. The Hebrew root for "intermarry" (תִּתְחַתֵּן, "tithaten") underscores the covenantal implications of marriage. 3. Destruction of Idolatrous Symbols (Deuteronomy 7:5) God commands the destruction of altars, sacred stones, and Asherah poles. The Hebrew term for "Asherah" (אֲשֵׁרָה) refers to a Canaanite goddess, highlighting the need to eliminate idolatry. 4. Chosen People and Holy Status (Deuteronomy 7:6) Israel is described as a holy people chosen by God. The Hebrew word for "holy" (קָדוֹשׁ, "kadosh") signifies being set apart for a divine purpose. 5. God’s Love and Faithfulness (Deuteronomy 7:7-9) The passage emphasizes God's love and faithfulness to Israel, not because of their size but because of His covenant. The Hebrew root for "love" (אָהַב, "ahav") conveys a deep, covenantal affection. 6. Blessings for Obedience (Deuteronomy 7:12-15) God promises blessings, including fertility and health, for obedience to His commandments. The Hebrew word for "bless" (בָּרַךְ, "barak") indicates a divine favor and empowerment. 7. Victory over Enemies (Deuteronomy 7:16-24) Assurance of victory over enemies is given, with God actively driving them out. The Hebrew root for "drive out" (יָרַשׁ, "yarash") implies taking possession and inheritance. 8. Warning Against Idolatry (Deuteronomy 7:25-26) A stern warning is issued against coveting or keeping any idolatrous items, as they are detestable. The Hebrew word for "detestable" (תּוֹעֵבָה, "to'evah") indicates something abominable and offensive to God. Themes 1. Divine Command for Separation Deuteronomy 7 emphasizes the command for the Israelites to separate themselves from the surrounding nations. The chapter begins with God instructing the Israelites to "utterly destroy" the nations in the Promised Land and to "make no covenant with them" (Deuteronomy 7:2). The Hebrew root for "destroy" (חרם, ^charam^) implies a complete devotion to destruction, underscoring the seriousness of maintaining purity and separation. 2. Prohibition of Idolatry The Israelites are warned against intermarrying with the nations to prevent turning away from God to serve other gods (Deuteronomy 7:3-4). The theme of idolatry is central, as it represents a direct violation of the covenant relationship with God. The Hebrew word for "serve" (עבד, ^avad^) indicates a form of worship and allegiance that should be reserved for God alone. 3. Chosen People and Covenant Relationship The chapter highlights Israel's status as a chosen people, "a holy people to the LORD your God" (Deuteronomy 7:6). This theme underscores the special covenant relationship between God and Israel, rooted in God's love and faithfulness. The Hebrew term for "holy" (קדוש, ^qadosh^) signifies being set apart for a divine purpose. 4. God’s Faithfulness and Love God's faithfulness to His covenant is emphasized, as He keeps His promises to those who love Him and keep His commandments (Deuteronomy 7:9). The Hebrew word for "faithful" (אמן, ^aman^) conveys reliability and steadfastness, reflecting God's unwavering commitment to His people. 5. Blessings for Obedience The chapter outlines the blessings that will follow obedience to God's commandments, including prosperity, health, and victory over enemies (Deuteronomy 7:12-15). The theme of blessings is tied to the covenant, where obedience results in tangible expressions of God's favor. 6. Divine Assistance in Conquest God promises to assist Israel in conquering the nations, driving them out "little by little" (Deuteronomy 7:22). This theme highlights God's active role in fulfilling His promises and ensuring the success of His people. The gradual process underscores reliance on God's timing and provision. 7. Warning Against Complacency The Israelites are cautioned against becoming complacent or fearful, as God will deliver their enemies into their hands (Deuteronomy 7:17-21). This theme serves as a reminder of the need for continual trust in God's power and presence, avoiding the pitfalls of doubt and self-reliance. 8. Destruction of Idolatrous Symbols The chapter concludes with a command to destroy all symbols of idolatry, such as carved images, to prevent them from becoming a snare (Deuteronomy 7:25-26). The Hebrew root for "snare" (מוקש, ^moqesh^) suggests a trap or stumbling block, emphasizing the danger of allowing idolatry to infiltrate the community. Prayer Points Pray for the strength to remain separate from worldly influences and to live a life of holiness. Ask God to help you embrace your identity as His chosen child and to walk in obedience to His commands. Thank God for His faithfulness and the fulfillment of His promises in your life. Seek God's guidance in identifying and removing any idols or distractions that hinder your relationship with Him. Pray for a heart that trusts in God's love and His plans for your life, even in uncertain times. Answering Tough Questions 1. If God is compassionate, how can Deuteronomy 7:1–2 condone the total destruction of other nations? 2. Where is the historical or archeological evidence supporting the annihilation of the seven nations mentioned in Deuteronomy 7:1? 3. How does the command in Deuteronomy 7:3–4 to avoid intermarriage align with the inclusive messages found elsewhere in the Bible? 4. Why does Deuteronomy 7:5 require the destruction of religious objects, and is there any historical proof that such widespread destruction occurred? 5. How can Deuteronomy 7:16’s promise of victory over enemies be reconciled with records of Israel’s military setbacks in other biblical accounts? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. Why did God choose the Israelites among all the nations? 2. What dangers are associated with intermarrying with the seven nations? 3. How does the destruction of other nations demonstrate God's love for Israel? 4. In what ways can we, today, be lured away from our faith by external influences? 5. How can the promise of God's fidelity to a thousand generations apply to believers now? 6. How does God's command to destroy idols resonate with our modern-day struggles against idolatry? 7. What promises does God make to the Israelites if they obey? 8. How does remembering God's past deliverance give confidence for future challenges? 9. In today's context, what forms might "idols" take in our lives? 10. Why is it important to completely eradicate elements that lead us away from God? 11. How can we ensure we're not spiritually "intermarrying" with worldly philosophies? 12. What does being a "treasured possession" mean to you personally? 13. How can you apply the principles of obedience from this chapter in your daily life? 14. What modern practices or beliefs might be comparable to the worship of idols? 15. How can we cultivate a deeper trust in God's faithfulness? 16. Why might God have emphasized not taking the gold or silver from the idols? 17. How can the lessons from this chapter guide us in our relationships? 18. In what ways does God show His love for us today? 19. How can we ensure that we're not compromising our faith in subtle ways? 20. What steps can you take to recognize and eliminate "idols" in your life today? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions