Deuteronomy 19:1

When the LORD your God has cut off the nations whose land He is giving you, and when you have driven them out and settled in their cities and houses,

Study Bible

When the LORD your God
This phrase establishes the divine authority and covenant relationship between God and the Israelites. The Hebrew word for "LORD" is "Yahweh," the sacred name of God, emphasizing His eternal presence and faithfulness. "Your God" signifies a personal relationship, reminding the Israelites of their unique status as God's chosen people. This covenantal language is foundational, as it underscores that the instructions to follow are not merely human laws but divine commands.

has cut off
The phrase "has cut off" refers to God's active role in delivering the Israelites from their enemies. The Hebrew root "karath" often implies a decisive action, such as making a covenant or cutting off a people. This reflects God's sovereignty and His commitment to fulfilling His promises to Israel, ensuring their security and the establishment of their nation in the Promised Land.

the nations
"Nations" here refers to the various peoples inhabiting the land of Canaan. Historically, these were the Canaanites, Hittites, Amorites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites, among others. The term "goyim" in Hebrew often denotes Gentile nations, highlighting the distinction between Israel and other peoples. This separation is crucial for maintaining Israel's religious and cultural identity.

whose land the LORD your God is giving you
This phrase emphasizes the gift of the land as a divine inheritance. The land is not taken by Israel's might but given by God's grace. The Hebrew word "natan" (to give) indicates a generous, unmerited gift, reinforcing the idea of the Promised Land as a fulfillment of God's covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

and when you have taken their land
The act of taking the land involves both divine provision and human responsibility. The Israelites are to actively possess what God has promised. This duality of divine sovereignty and human agency is a recurring theme in Scripture, where God's promises often require faithful action from His people.

and settled in their cities and houses
"Settled" implies a sense of permanence and peace, contrasting with the nomadic life the Israelites led in the wilderness. The Hebrew word "yashab" means to dwell or inhabit, indicating a transition to a stable, established community. "Cities and houses" suggest the infrastructure and civilization that the Israelites would inherit, pointing to God's provision for their physical and societal needs.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who is actively involved in the history and destiny of His people.

2. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, who are being led into the Promised Land.

3. The Nations
The inhabitants of the land that God is giving to the Israelites, who are to be driven out.

4. The Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which God promised to Abraham and his descendants.

5. Cities and Houses
The established settlements in the Promised Land that the Israelites will inhabit after driving out the nations.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Faithfulness
God is sovereign over nations and history. His promises are sure, and He is faithful to fulfill them.

Obedience and Trust
The Israelites are called to trust in God's plan and obey His commands as they enter the land. This requires faith and action.

Spiritual Warfare
Just as the Israelites were to drive out the nations, believers are called to actively resist sin and spiritual opposition in their lives.

Inheritance and Rest
The Promised Land is a type of the spiritual inheritance and rest that believers have in Christ. We are called to live in the fullness of this inheritance.

Community and Stewardship
As the Israelites settle in the land, they are to establish a community that honors God. Believers are called to build communities that reflect God's kingdom values.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the promise of the land to the Israelites demonstrate God's faithfulness to His covenant with Abraham?

2. In what ways can the process of driving out the nations be seen as a metaphor for dealing with sin in our lives?

3. How does the concept of entering the Promised Land relate to the New Testament idea of entering God's rest?

4. What are some practical ways we can build communities that reflect God's kingdom values today?

5. How can we apply the principles of obedience and trust in God's promises in our current life situations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 12
God's promise to Abraham about giving his descendants the land of Canaan.

Exodus 23
Instructions about driving out the inhabitants of the land and not making covenants with them.

Joshua 1
The commissioning of Joshua to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land.

Hebrews 4
The concept of entering God's rest, which can be seen as a spiritual parallel to entering the Promised Land.