Deuteronomy 13:15

you must surely put the inhabitants of that city to the sword. Devote to destruction all its people and livestock.

Study Bible

You must surely strike down
The phrase "You must surely strike down" is a translation of the Hebrew verb "nakah," which means to strike, smite, or kill. This command is given in the context of dealing with a city that has turned to idolatry, a serious offense in the covenant relationship between God and Israel. The use of "surely" emphasizes the certainty and decisiveness required in executing this judgment. It reflects the seriousness with which God views idolatry and the need for Israel to maintain purity in worship. Historically, this command underscores the theocratic nature of Israelite society, where religious and civil laws were intertwined.

the inhabitants of that city
This phrase refers to the people living in the city that has been led astray into idolatry. The Hebrew word for "inhabitants" is "yashab," meaning those who dwell or reside. The focus here is on the collective responsibility of the community. In ancient Israel, the community was seen as a corporate entity, and the actions of individuals could bring consequences upon the whole. This reflects the communal nature of ancient Near Eastern societies, where individual actions were often seen in the context of their impact on the community.

with the sword
The "sword" symbolizes the instrument of divine judgment and warfare. In the ancient world, the sword was a common weapon and a symbol of power and authority. The use of the sword in this context signifies the execution of divine justice. It is a reminder of the seriousness of turning away from God and the severe consequences of leading others into sin. Theologically, it points to the holiness of God and the necessity of eradicating sin from among His people.

Devote to destruction
The Hebrew term here is "cherem," which means to ban, devote, or utterly destroy. This concept involves setting something apart for God, often through complete destruction, as an act of judgment. It signifies the total consecration of the city and its contents to God, leaving nothing that could lead Israel back into idolatry. This practice was meant to purify the land and prevent the spread of idolatry. It highlights the radical measures required to maintain the holiness and distinctiveness of God's people.

all its people and livestock
The inclusion of "all its people and livestock" in the command to devote to destruction emphasizes the totality of the judgment. The Hebrew word for "people" is "nefesh," often translated as soul or person, indicating the complete annihilation of the city's inhabitants. The mention of "livestock" underscores the thoroughness of the destruction, ensuring that nothing remains that could be associated with the idolatrous practices. This reflects the comprehensive nature of God's judgment against sin and the need to remove all traces of idolatry from the community. Historically, this would serve as a deterrent to other cities and a reminder of the covenantal obligations of the Israelites.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The author of Deuteronomy, delivering God's laws and instructions to the Israelites.

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

3. Canaan
The land promised to the Israelites, where they are to establish a society based on God's laws.

4. Idolatrous City
A city within Israel that has turned to worship other gods, leading to the command for its destruction.

5. God's Command
The divine instruction to eliminate idolatry and maintain purity in worship.

Teaching Points

The Seriousness of Idolatry
Idolatry is a grave sin that leads people away from God. The command to destroy an idolatrous city underscores the seriousness with which God views the worship of other gods.

Purity of Worship
God desires pure and undivided worship. The Israelites were to be a holy people, set apart for God, and this required the removal of any influences that could lead them astray.

Community Responsibility
The entire community is responsible for maintaining faithfulness to God. This passage highlights the collective responsibility to address sin and idolatry within the community.

God’s Justice and Mercy
While the command seems harsh, it reflects God's justice in dealing with sin. It also points to His mercy in preserving the purity of His people and preventing further spiritual corruption.

Modern Application
Today, believers are called to examine their lives and communities for anything that might lead them away from God. This includes addressing false teachings and influences that compromise faith.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the command in Deuteronomy 13:15 reflect God's view of idolatry, and what implications does this have for us today?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of "devoting to destruction" in our personal lives when dealing with sin?

3. How does the concept of community responsibility in Deuteronomy 13:15 relate to the New Testament teachings on church discipline?

4. What are some modern-day "idols" that can lead believers away from God, and how can we guard against them?

5. How do the events in Deuteronomy 13:15 foreshadow the ultimate victory over sin and idolatry through Jesus Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 34:12-16
Warns against making covenants with the inhabitants of the land to prevent idolatry.

Joshua 6:17-21
The destruction of Jericho as an example of devoting a city to destruction.

1 Corinthians 5:6-7
Paul’s teaching on purging sin from the community, drawing a parallel to removing idolatry.

Revelation 2:14-16
Jesus' message to the church in Pergamum about tolerating false teachings and idolatry.