◄ Deuteronomy 7 ►
Book Study • Verse Study • Study Que
Summary Drive Out the Nations The Almighty's enduring love and faithfulness serve as anchors for Israel. Being chosen isn't just a privilege but carries significant responsibilities. In every age, those who trust and obey God's will find themselves under His protective wings and care. Verses 1-5: Destruction of Idolatrous Nations God instructs the Israelites to utterly destroy the seven nations in the Promised Land. They are not to make treaties with them or intermarry. Any such unions might draw Israelites away from God to serve other gods. Therefore, they are to demolish all their idols and places of worship. Verses 6-11: Israel: God's Treasured Possession Israel is reminded of their unique status as God's chosen, not because of their numbers, but due to God's love and His promise to their ancestors. They witnessed His might in Egypt and should know He keeps His covenant. God commands them to keep His statutes in return. Verses 12-16: Blessings for Obedience For their obedience, Israel will be blessed abundantly: their numbers will increase, they will be healthy, and their land will yield rich produce. Furthermore, no woman will be barren, and they will be free from sickness. They will also be protected from harmful animals and victorious over their enemies. Verses 17-24: Facing the Mightier Foes If the Israelites fear the stronger nations, they must remember how God delivered them from Pharaoh. Just as God defeated Egypt's great army, He will also drive out and destroy the nations before Israel. Verses 25-26: Utter Eradication of Idols All carved images of the gods must be destroyed. The Israelites are forbidden from coveting or taking silver and gold from these idols, lest they be ensnared in idolatry. 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. 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. 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. 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. Bible Study 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? 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. Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions