Deuteronomy 20:11

If they accept your offer of peace and open their gates, all the people there will become forced laborers to serve you.

Study Bible

If they accept your offer of peace
This phrase underscores the importance of peace in the biblical narrative. The Hebrew root for "peace" is "shalom," which signifies completeness, welfare, and harmony. In the context of ancient Israel, offering peace before engaging in battle reflects God's desire for reconciliation and order. Historically, this practice was common in Near Eastern diplomacy, where cities could avoid destruction by accepting terms of peace. Spiritually, it reminds believers of the peace offered through Christ, who reconciles humanity to God.

and open their gates
The act of opening gates symbolizes vulnerability and trust. In ancient times, city gates were critical for defense, and opening them signified surrender and acceptance of terms. This action reflects a willingness to submit and enter into a new relationship with the conquerors. For Christians, this can be seen as a metaphor for opening one's heart to God's will, allowing His presence to enter and transform lives.

all the people will become forced laborers
The phrase "forced laborers" comes from the Hebrew "mas," indicating a levy or tribute. In the ancient world, it was common for conquered peoples to serve their conquerors, contributing to the victors' economy and infrastructure. This servitude is a reminder of the consequences of rejecting peace. From a spiritual perspective, it highlights the bondage of sin and the freedom found in serving God, who offers a yoke that is easy and a burden that is light (Matthew 11:30).

to serve you
Service in this context is involuntary, yet it points to a broader biblical theme of servitude. The Hebrew word "abad" means to work or serve, and it is used throughout Scripture to describe both forced labor and voluntary service to God. This duality invites reflection on the nature of service: while earthly service can be burdensome, serving God is a privilege that brings fulfillment and purpose. Christians are called to serve one another in love, reflecting Christ's example of humble service.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Israelites
The people receiving the instructions from God through Moses. They are preparing to enter the Promised Land and are given guidelines for warfare.

2. Canaanite Cities
The cities that the Israelites would encounter as they enter the Promised Land. These cities are the subject of the peace offer mentioned in the verse.

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

4. God
The ultimate authority giving these instructions to ensure the Israelites conduct themselves according to His will.

5. Peace Offer
A diplomatic approach commanded by God to be extended to cities before engaging in battle, highlighting a preference for peace over conflict.

Teaching Points

God's Preference for Peace
God instructs His people to offer peace before engaging in conflict, reflecting His desire for reconciliation and harmony.

Obedience to Divine Instructions
The Israelites are called to follow God's commands precisely, demonstrating the importance of obedience in the life of a believer.

The Role of Servitude
The concept of forced labor in this context can be seen as a means of integrating conquered peoples into the community, which can be a metaphor for how believers are to serve God willingly.

Moral and Ethical Warfare
The passage provides a framework for conducting warfare ethically, emphasizing the importance of offering peace and avoiding unnecessary bloodshed.

Spiritual Warfare
Just as the Israelites were to offer peace before battle, Christians are called to approach spiritual battles with a mindset of peace and reconciliation.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the instruction to offer peace first reflect God's character and His desires for His people?

2. In what ways can the principle of offering peace before conflict be applied in our personal relationships today?

3. How does the account of the Gibeonites in Joshua 9 illustrate the practical application of Deuteronomy 20:11?

4. What are some modern-day examples of "forced labor" or servitude, and how should Christians respond to these situations?

5. How can the concept of spiritual warfare be informed by the principles found in Deuteronomy 20:11, and what practical steps can we take to ensure we are approaching conflicts with a mindset of peace?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 9
The account of the Gibeonites who deceived Israel into making a peace treaty, resulting in them becoming woodcutters and water carriers, illustrating the application of Deuteronomy 20:11.

2 Chronicles 8:7-9
Describes Solomon's use of non-Israelite people as forced labor, showing a historical application of the principles outlined in Deuteronomy 20:11.

Romans 12:18
Encourages believers to live at peace with everyone, connecting the Old Testament principle of seeking peace first with New Testament teachings.