The Coalition of Enemies refers to various alliances formed by nations and groups in opposition to Israel throughout biblical history. These coalitions often served as instruments of divine judgment or as tests of faith for the Israelites, highlighting themes of reliance on God, the consequences of disobedience, and the ultimate sovereignty of God over the nations.

1. The Canaanite Coalition:

One of the earliest examples of a coalition against Israel is found in the conquest narratives of the Book of Joshua. As the Israelites, under Joshua's leadership, began to take possession of the Promised Land, several Canaanite kings formed alliances to resist them. In Joshua 9-11, the kings of the northern and southern regions of Canaan united to fight against Israel. Despite their formidable numbers and military strength, these coalitions were defeated by the Israelites, underscoring God's promise to give the land to His people. Joshua 11:5-6 states, "All these kings joined forces and encamped together at the waters of Merom to fight against Israel. Then the LORD said to Joshua, 'Do not be afraid of them, for by this time tomorrow I will hand all of them slain over to Israel.'"

2. The Moabite and Ammonite Coalition:

In 2 Chronicles 20, a coalition of Moabites, Ammonites, and some Meunites came against King Jehoshaphat of Judah. This formidable alliance sought to invade and plunder Judah. Jehoshaphat, recognizing the threat, sought the LORD in prayer and proclaimed a fast throughout Judah. The Spirit of the LORD came upon Jahaziel, who assured the people of God's deliverance. 2 Chronicles 20:15 records, "He said, 'Listen, all you people of Judah and Jerusalem! Listen, King Jehoshaphat! This is what the LORD says: Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God's.'" The coalition was ultimately defeated as God set ambushes against them, leading to their self-destruction.

3. The Philistine Coalition:

The Philistines frequently formed coalitions to challenge Israel during the period of the Judges and the early monarchy. One notable instance is found in 1 Samuel 7, where the Philistines gathered to attack Israel. Under the leadership of Samuel, the Israelites repented and sought the LORD's help. As Samuel offered a burnt offering, the LORD thundered with a mighty sound, throwing the Philistines into confusion and allowing Israel to defeat them. This event is a testament to the power of repentance and divine intervention in the face of overwhelming odds.

4. The Coalition of Nations in Psalm 83:

Psalm 83 presents a prophetic and poetic depiction of a coalition of nations conspiring against Israel. The psalmist Asaph lists various groups, including Edom, Ishmaelites, Moab, Hagrites, Gebal, Ammon, Amalek, Philistia, and Tyre, who seek to destroy Israel as a nation. Psalm 83:4 states, "They have said, 'Come, let us erase them as a nation; may the name of Israel be remembered no more.'" This coalition is seen as a representation of the perpetual enmity against God's chosen people and serves as a call for divine intervention and justice.

5. The Gog and Magog Coalition:

Ezekiel 38-39 describes a future coalition led by Gog of the land of Magog, along with allies such as Persia, Cush, Put, Gomer, and Beth-togarmah, who will come against Israel in the latter days. This eschatological prophecy highlights a massive invasion that will be divinely thwarted, demonstrating God's ultimate protection and vindication of His people. Ezekiel 38:18-19 declares, "On that day, when Gog comes against the land of Israel, declares the Lord GOD, My wrath will flare up. In My zeal and fiery rage I proclaim that on that day there will be a great earthquake in the land of Israel."

Throughout biblical history, the Coalition of Enemies serves as a recurring motif that illustrates the spiritual and physical battles faced by Israel. These coalitions, while formidable, ultimately fall under the sovereign will of God, who uses them to fulfill His purposes and demonstrate His power and faithfulness to His covenant people.