Deuteronomy 3:3

So the LORD our God also delivered Og king of Bashan and his whole army into our hands. We struck them down until no survivor was left.

Study Bible

So the LORD our God
This phrase emphasizes the covenant relationship between the Israelites and Yahweh. The Hebrew word for "LORD" is "YHWH," the sacred and personal name of God, signifying His eternal presence and faithfulness. "Our God" underscores the personal and communal relationship the Israelites have with God, highlighting His role as their protector and deliverer. This relationship is foundational to the identity of the Israelites as God's chosen people, reminding them of His promises and their obligations to Him.

also delivered
The Hebrew root for "delivered" is "nathan," meaning to give or to hand over. This action is not merely a military victory but a divine intervention. It signifies God's active role in the affairs of His people, fulfilling His promises to give them the land. This deliverance is a continuation of God's faithfulness, as He had previously delivered Sihon, king of the Amorites, into their hands. It reassures the Israelites of God's ongoing support and power.

Og king of Bashan
Og was a formidable opponent, described elsewhere in the Bible as one of the last of the Rephaim, a race of giants. Bashan was a region known for its fertile land and strong cities. The defeat of Og symbolizes the overcoming of seemingly insurmountable obstacles through God's power. Historically, this victory would have been significant for the Israelites, as it demonstrated God's ability to conquer even the mightiest foes, reinforcing their trust in Him.

and all his people
This phrase indicates the totality of the victory. Not only was the king defeated, but his entire army was also vanquished. This comprehensive victory underscores the completeness of God's deliverance. It serves as a reminder that when God acts on behalf of His people, He does so thoroughly and decisively, leaving no room for doubt or fear.

into our hands
The phrase "into our hands" suggests a transfer of power and control. It implies that the victory was not achieved by the Israelites' strength alone but was a gift from God. This expression is a reminder of the Israelites' dependence on God for success and the importance of attributing their victories to His providence rather than their own abilities.

and we struck them down
The act of striking down the enemy is a fulfillment of God's command to the Israelites to conquer the land He promised them. It reflects the obedience of the Israelites to God's instructions and their role as instruments of His judgment against the wickedness of the Canaanite nations. This action is both a physical and spiritual victory, as it represents the triumph of God's righteousness over evil.

until no survivor was left
This phrase indicates the total annihilation of Og's forces, ensuring that no threat remained. It reflects the severity of God's judgment and the necessity of complete obedience to His commands. Historically, such total destruction was common in ancient warfare, especially in the context of divine mandate. Spiritually, it serves as a metaphor for the complete eradication of sin and evil in the life of a believer, emphasizing the need for total commitment to God's will.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who delivers His people and fulfills His promises.

2. Og, King of Bashan
A formidable Amorite king known for his giant stature and stronghold in Bashan, representing a significant threat to Israel.

3. Bashan
A fertile region east of the Jordan River, known for its strong cities and mighty warriors.

4. Israelites
The people of God, led by Moses, journeying to the Promised Land and relying on God's guidance and strength.

5. The Battle
A decisive victory granted by God, demonstrating His power and faithfulness to His promises.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Faithfulness
God is sovereign over all nations and rulers, and His promises are sure. Just as He delivered Og into Israel's hands, He will fulfill His promises to us.

Trust in God's Power
The Israelites' victory over Og was not due to their own strength but God's intervention. We must trust in God's power rather than our own abilities.

Facing Giants in Our Lives
Og represents the "giants" or challenges we face. With God's help, we can overcome obstacles that seem insurmountable.

God's Deliverance and Our Response
God's deliverance calls for a response of obedience and gratitude. We should live in a way that honors His faithfulness.

Spiritual Warfare
Just as Israel fought physical battles, we face spiritual battles. We must equip ourselves with God's armor and rely on His strength.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the victory over Og demonstrate God's faithfulness to His promises? Reflect on a time when you experienced God's faithfulness in your life.

2. In what ways can we apply the Israelites' reliance on God in battle to our own spiritual battles today?

3. What "giants" or challenges are you currently facing, and how can you trust God to help you overcome them?

4. How does the account of Og's defeat encourage you to trust in God's power rather than your own abilities?

5. How can we cultivate a heart of gratitude and obedience in response to God's deliverance in our lives? Consider connections to Psalm 136.

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 21
Provides background on the Israelites' journey and previous battles, highlighting God's consistent deliverance.

Joshua 12
Lists the defeated kings, including Og, emphasizing the fulfillment of God's promises to give Israel the land.

Psalm 136
Celebrates God's enduring love and mighty acts, including the defeat of Og, as reasons for Israel's gratitude.

Hebrews 11
Discusses faith in God's promises, exemplified by the Israelites' trust in God's deliverance.

Ephesians 6
Encourages believers to rely on God's strength in spiritual battles, paralleling Israel's reliance on God in physical battles.