Deuteronomy 7:2

and when the LORD your God has delivered them over to you to defeat them, then you must devote them to complete destruction. Make no treaty with them and show them no mercy.

Study Bible

and when the LORD your God has delivered them over to you
This phrase emphasizes the sovereignty and active involvement of God in the affairs of Israel. The Hebrew root for "delivered" is "nathan," which means to give or to hand over. This indicates that the victory over the nations is not by Israel's might but by God's providence. Historically, this reflects the belief that God is the ultimate authority who orchestrates events for His purposes. It reassures believers that God is in control and that His plans will prevail.

and you have defeated them
The word "defeated" comes from the Hebrew "nakah," meaning to strike or smite. This implies a decisive victory, one that is complete and overwhelming. In the context of ancient warfare, this was not merely a military conquest but a spiritual victory, as Israel was acting as an instrument of divine justice. It serves as a reminder that spiritual battles require reliance on God's strength rather than human power.

then you must devote them to complete destruction
The phrase "devote them to complete destruction" is derived from the Hebrew word "herem," which means to ban or to consecrate for destruction. This was a command for total annihilation, often seen as a difficult concept. However, from a conservative Christian perspective, it underscores the holiness of God and the seriousness of sin. The Canaanite nations were seen as irredeemably corrupt, and their destruction was necessary to prevent Israel from being led astray. It highlights the need for purity and separation from sin in the believer's life.

Make no treaty with them
The instruction to "make no treaty" is a call for separation from ungodly influences. The Hebrew word for "treaty" is "berith," which means covenant. In ancient times, treaties often involved mutual obligations and could lead to spiritual compromise. This command reflects the importance of maintaining spiritual integrity and not forming alliances that could lead to idolatry or moral corruption.

and show them no mercy
The phrase "show them no mercy" is rooted in the Hebrew word "chanan," which means to show favor or compassion. This command is challenging but reflects the severity of God's judgment against sin. It serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of sin and the importance of obedience to God's commands. From a theological perspective, it points to the ultimate justice of God, who is both loving and just.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who commands and empowers His people.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who are entering the Promised Land.

3. Canaanites
The inhabitants of the Promised Land, whom God commands to be destroyed.

4. Promised Land (Canaan)
The land promised by God to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

5. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, delivering God's commandments to the people.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Commands
God’s instructions to Israel were clear and required complete obedience. This teaches us the importance of following God's commands fully, without compromise.

Holiness and Separation
The command to destroy the Canaanites was about maintaining the holiness of God's people. As Christians, we are called to be separate from sin and the influences of the world.

Trust in God's Sovereignty
The Israelites were to trust that God would deliver their enemies into their hands. We, too, must trust in God's sovereignty and His plans for our lives.

The Danger of Compromise
Making treaties with the Canaanites would lead to spiritual compromise. We must be vigilant against compromising our faith and values.

God's Justice and Mercy
While the command seems harsh, it reflects God's justice against sin. It also points to the mercy available through Christ, who took the punishment for sin on our behalf.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the command to devote the Canaanites to destruction reflect God's holiness and justice?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of separation from sin in our daily lives?

3. How does the account of Saul in 1 Samuel 15 illustrate the consequences of partial obedience?

4. What are some modern-day "treaties" or compromises that Christians might be tempted to make, and how can we avoid them?

5. How can we balance the call to be separate from the world with the command to love and reach out to those who do not know Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 6
The fall of Jericho, where the Israelites follow God's command to devote the city to destruction.

1 Samuel 15
God's command to Saul to destroy the Amalekites, illustrating the importance of obedience.

Exodus 23
God's earlier instructions about driving out the inhabitants of the land.

Romans 12
The call for Christians to live in holiness and not conform to the world, reflecting the separation God required of Israel.

2 Corinthians 6
The exhortation for believers to be separate from unbelievers, echoing the call for Israel to avoid treaties with the Canaanites.