Devarim 7 (Deuteronomy 7)
Devarim 7, Moshe declares that when the Children of Yisrael enter the land, Yehovah will deliver the nations to them. The Children of Yisrael were to destroy these nations and leave no remembrance of them. They were not to make a covenant with them nor allow intermarriage. Moshe tells the people that Yehovah does this because He loves the Children of Yisrael above all. This is because of His oath to their fathers. We in turn show our love for Yehovah through keeping the covenant and observing His commandments and statutes. If we do this, He will bless us in numerous ways. We would be wise to take this to heart and diligently practice Torah. We are to teach our children to do the same. These blessings are only available to those that practice His commandments, statutes and judgments. Yehovah will send hornets to remove the nations before Yisrael. Yet He will not do this all at once, He will do this little by little so that no beast would take over the land. Yehovah warns us not to take any of the idolatry from the nations into our homes.
Yehovah is used 20 times in Devarim 7.
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Bring into the Land
Bring into the Land
Devarim 7:1
1 When Yehovah your Redeemer shall bring you into the land whither you go to possess it, and has cast out many nations before you, the Chitti, and the Girgashi, and the Emori, and the Kenaani, and the Perizzi, and the Chivvi, and the Yevusi, seven nations greater and mightier than you;
Moshe tells the people that Yehovah would bring the Children of Yisrael into the land. One might think, how is that possible? Is He going to just transport them? We know that did not happen. So, what does that mean when He states He will bring them into the land?
Now the Children of Yisreal could have easily just marched into the land on their own. However, they tried that once; it did not work out too well for them, Bemidbar 14:44-45.
44 But they presumed to go up to the mountain top. Nevertheless the Ark of the Covenant of Yehovah, and Moshe, departed not out of the camp. 45 Then the Amaleqi came down, and the Kenaani which dwelt in that mountain, and smote them, and discomfited them, to Chormah.
They tried to take the land on their own, but that was not possible. The nations were greater and mightier than the Children of Yisrael. This was the First Generation. Since that day, the Children of Ysrael did not try to take the land or go to war without Yehovah leading them. Later they would have a string of victories against Sichon, Og, Arad and the Midyan. Yehovah delivered these nations into the Children of Yisrael’s hands. It is also why they did not attack Edom, Ammon or Moav. These were not sanctioned by Yehovah. Unlike the First Generation, the Second Generation was obedient to Yehovah’s voice and His Word. They had seen what happens, when one is in a covenant relationship with God and are rebellious. It does not work out well for the people. They have also seen the blessings when one cleaves to Yehovah.
When Yehovah said He would bring them into the land, He would give them the path. Just as Yehovah had done at the Red Sea, He would to at the Yarden River. He would provide the best route to go through the land. He would give them battle plans and would go ahead of them. He would deliver the nations into their hands in various ways. Moshe will speak of this shortly. They played an important part in all this. As always, there is the divine and the human aspect when flowing with Yehovah in power. This is true to this day.
Our Obligation to Yehovah
Our Obligation to Yehovah
Devarim 7:2-3
2 And when Yehovah your Redeemer shall deliver them before you; you shall smite them, utterly destroy them; you shall make no covenant with them, nor show mercy to them. 3 Neither shall you make marriages with them; your daughter you shall not give to his son, nor his daughter shall you take to your son.
Yehovah was willing and able to deliver the nations into the hands of the Children of Yisrael. For this to be successful and enduring, they were obligated to perform some very specific actions. The Children of Yisrael were to completely destroy the people. They were not allowed to let any in the land survive. Outside the land was a different issue.
We are to do the same today, 2 Corinthians 10:2-6.
2 But I beseech, that I may not be bold when I am present with that confidence, wherewith I think to be bold against some, which think of us as if we walked according to the flesh. 3 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh. 4 For the weapons of our warfare not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds; 5 casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge (gnosis) of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Messiah; 6 and having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled.
Today our enemies are not as easily identified, nor can we physically destroy them as the Children of Yisrael did. We are still a nation living within nations. As such, we must realize that their effect on us is ever present. Today we must guard our minds and destroy the spiritual aspect of our enemies from our minds. We must continue to cleanse our minds of thoughts that cause us to wander from the purity of God. We must examine ourselves, 2 Corinthians 13:5.
5 Examine yourselves, whether you be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know not your own selves, how that Messiah Yeshua is in you, except you be reprobates?
We must destroy ungodly thoughts and replace them with Ephesians 5:17-21.
17 Wherefore be not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord. 18 And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit; 19 speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; 20 giving thanks always for all things to God and the Father in the name of our Lord Yeshua Messiah; 21 submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God.
We have to destroy the thoughts that stray from the path. Our focus should be to learn God’s will for our lives. We are to build ourselves up in our most holy faith. Focusing on those things that fill our heart with joy in the Lord. We must learn to submit ourselves to one another in a body of believers that pursues His righteousness and love.
Secondly, the Children of Yisrael were not to make any covenant with them. They were in no uncertain terms to make any agreement with the people of the land. For that matter, they should not independently make any agreement with any nations regardless. This could end up becoming a future hinderance if they were not careful. It did not matter how far the nations were from Yisrael.
We too are told this, 2 Corinthians 6:14.
14 Be not unequally yoked together with unbelievers. For what fellowship has righteousness with unrighteousness? And what communion has light with darkness?
We must be careful who we align ourselves with. This is not just referring to unbelievers. There are many today who call themselves believers and have no interest in pursuing His righteousness. We must carefully evaluate who we spend our quality time with. We must ask ourselves will they help bring us closer to God or will they seduce us to the dark side. Many will unintentionally do this to us. We must consider our relationships very seriously.
Thirdly, the Children of Yisrael were not to show any mercy. No matter how pitiful the nations would cry out, the Children of Yisrael were to kill every one of them. This included all men, women and children. In some cases, the Children of Yisrael were to destroy all property and livestock. Sometimes carrying out such direction can wear on the people. However, if we were to survive as a people; it was important that we obey Yehovah. They had to set aside their feelings and compassion for weaker humans. We have to trust that Yehovah knows best, no matter how heartless it may seem. The fact is, the nations that the Children of Yisrael were to destroy were like a cancer to the land. If allowed to fester, the nations would overcome the Children of Yisrael. The only standard these nations had was their own. These nations were not to be trusted.
We must consider this carefully today. We are told in Galatians 6:10.
10 As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to them who are of the household of faith.
There is only so much good we can do at any one time. We should ensure that we are led by the Spirit when we consider what we will do. We are to do good to the household of faith first. This may be a smaller group than we realize. This may be limited to His remnant today. We must carefully consider how we spread our mercy. We must consider if we are promoting His faith or another faith.
Fourthly, the Children of Yisrael were not to make marriages with the nations. This more than any other specification, would lead to the assimilation of the Children of Yisrael. When one gives their heart to another that is not aligned with the ways of Yehovah, compromise will occur. Unfortunately, compromise does not often result in the foreigner becoming a follower of Yehovah. We have to stand our ground and never become unequally yoked with others. Moshe explains the last one.
Devarim 7:4
4 For they will turn away your son (ben) from following Me, that they may serve other redeemers. So will the anger (af) of Yehovah be kindled (charah) against you, and destroy you suddenly.
The women of the other nations would turn the heart of the men to either become faithless or to worship their gods. Shelomo was not even strong enough to overcome this, 1 Melakhim 11:1-3.
1 But king Shelomo loved many strange women, together with the daughter of Pharaoh, women of the Moavite, Ammonite, Edomite, Tzidonian, Chittite; 2 of the nations which Yehovah said to the Children of Yisrael, You shall not go in to them, neither shall they come in to you. They will turn away your heart after their redeemers. Shelomo clave to these in love. 3 And he had seven hundred wives, princesses, and three hundred concubines. And his wives turned away his heart.
Regardless of how strong we may think we are or how dedicated to Yehovah, most of us are weak at heart.
Devarim 7:5
5 But thus shall you deal with them; you shall destroy their altars, and break down their images, and cut down their groves, and burn their graven images with fire.
Groves comes from the Hebrew word אֲשֵׁרָה asherah or אֲשֵׁירָה asheyrah (H0842). Devarim 7:5 uses the second spelling. It is in the Bible 40 times and is always translated grove. It is the Babylonian goddess Astarte or the Kenaani goddess of fortune and happiness, the supposed consort of Baal. Sacred trees or poles were set up near the altar.
When the Children of Yisrael entered Kenaan, they were to have nothing to do with the idolatrous religions of its inhabitants. They were to destroy their altars, break their images, and cut down their groves. Some scholars conclude that the grove was a sacred pole set up near an altar to Baal. Since there was only one goddess with this name, the plural probably represents several poles dedicated to her.
The Kenaani believed that Asherah ruled the sea and was the mother of all the gods including Baal, and sometimes was his deadly enemy. Apparently, the mythology of Kenaan maintained that Asherah was the consort of Baal, who had displaced El as their highest god. Asherah is also the mother of Baal. Thus, her sacred objects (poles) were immediately beside altars to Baal, and she was worshiped along with him. She also has the title of “Lady Atirat of the Sea,” or “the lady who treads on the sea.”
It is in the period of the divided monarchy that the Asherah cult flourished both in Yisrael and Yehudah, though its existence before is documented by the command in Shemos 34:13.
13 But you shall destroy their altars, break their images, and cut down their groves (asheyrah).
And the prohibition of Devarim 16:21.
21 You shall not plant a grove (asherah) of any trees near to the altar of Yehovah your Redeemer, which you shall make.
And Gideon’s service to God, Shofetim 6:25.
25 And it came to pass the same night, that Yehovah said to him, Take your father’s young bull (par) the bull (sor), even the second bull (par) of seven years, and throw down the altar of Baal that your father has, and cut down the grove (asherah) that by it.
In northern Yisrael, the cult received its greatest momentum from Izevel who was responsible for at least four hundred prophets of Asherah. Even reform-minded kings such as Asa and Chizqiyya (Hezekiah) were unable to liquidate the movement, 1 Melakhim 15:13.
13 And also Maakhah his mother, even her he removed from queen, because she had made an idol in a grove (asherah); and Asa destroyed her idol and burnt by the brook Qidron.
And 2 Melakhim 18:4.
4 He removed the high places, and broke the images, and cut down the groves (asherah), and broke in pieces the copper serpent that Moshe had made. For to those days the Children of Yisrael did burn incense to it. And he called it Nechushtan.
It was knocked down, but not knocked out. There was an almost inevitable resurrection even in the wake of reform. Chizqiyya’s son Menashsheh in 2 Melakhim 21:7.
7 And he set a graven image of the grove (asherah) that he had made in the house, of which Yehovah said to Daviyd, and to Shelomo his son, In this house, and in Yerushalayim, which I have chosen out of all tribes of Yisrael, will I put my name for ever.
The image was placed in the Temple on the heels of Chizqiyya’s reform in 2 Melakhim 18:4. Apostasy and idolatry seem to follow behind revival. What one generation attempts to get rid of, a subsequent generation may trot back in. As reprehensible as it may be, all too frequently this has been the pattern in the human race to this day.
The fifth action the Children of Yisrael were to do was destroy their altars, images, cut down their groves and burn them. They were to cut all this out and sanctify their lives at the same time to Yehovah.
Today we are called upon to answer the following calls, Revelation 18:4.
4 And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, My people, that you be not partakers of her sins, and that you receive not of her plagues.
And Nachum 1:15.
15 Behold upon the mountains the feet of Him that brings good tidings, that publishes peace. Yehuda, keep your feasts (hag), perform your vows. For the belial shall no more pass through you; he is utterly cut off.
We are to answer these calls and pursue the pure worship of Yehovah. We must cleanse ourselves of any traditions that overshadow the commandments of God, and fulfill Romans 8:4.
4 That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.
We are to walk after the Spirit and pursue His righteousness in the Newness of Torah.
Holy Nation
Holy Nation
Devarim 7:6
6 For you a holy people to Yehovah your Redeemer. Yehovah your Redeemer has chosen you to be a special people to Himself, above all people that upon the face of the earth (adamah).
Yehovah had taken the Children of Yisrael out of Mitzrayim to be a holy people. They were told this as far back as Shemos 19:4-6.
4 You have seen what I did to the Mitzrayim and I bare you on eagles’ wings, and brought you to Myself. 5 Now therefore, if you will obey My voice indeed, and keep My covenant, then you shall be a peculiar treasure to Me above all people. For all the lands Mine. 6 And you shall be to Me a kingdom of priests, and a holy nation. These the words which you shall speak to the Children of Yisrael.
It has been Yehovah’s plan from the beginning to have a holy people bring forth righteousness to the nations. Then the nation will see the truth of Devarim 4:6-8.
6 Keep therefore and do; for this your wisdom and your understanding in the sight of the nations, which shall hear all these statutes, and say, Surely this great nation a wise and understanding people. 7 For what nation great, who God nigh to them, as Yehovah our God in all we call upon Him? 8 And what nation great, that has statutes and judgments righteous as all this Torah, which I set before you this day?
However, the Children of Yisrael failed to do this, because they lacked the very thing that would help bring this forth. Today, there is rising up a new generation that will accomplish the very thing Yehovah planned from the beginning. These are the ones of Revelation 12:16-17.
16 And the earth helped the woman, and the earth opened her mouth, and swallowed up the flood which the dragon cast out of his mouth. 17 And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Yeshua Messiah.
There is a generation today that keeps both the commandments and have the Testimony of Yeshua, the Spirit of Prophecy. This is the generation that will rise up today in the latter rain and in the Restitution of All Things. These are the ones that God will work through. These are the ones that follow the Lamb wherever He goes and pursue righteousness. They are the ones pursuing the High Calling of God in Yeshua Messiah as Paul and many in the First Century did, Philippians 3:13-14.
13 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended. But one thing, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth to those things which are before, 14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Messiah Yeshua.
This is why Yisrael is protected, and this is why so many believers who have chosen this path are protected to this day. It is the narrow way.
This is the ultimate calling of today. When we answer this calling, our lives will change forever. We will be in the race that Paul refers to in 1 Corinthians 9:24-27.
24 Know not that they which run in a race run all, but one receives the prize? So run, that you may obtain. 25 And every man that strives for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible. 26 I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beats the air. 27 But I keep under my body, and bring into subjection. Lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.
There is no guarantee that all will receive this reward in the future. But it is our ultimate calling today, 1 Peter 2:9-12.
9 But you a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a peculiar people; that should show forth the praises of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light. 10 Which in time past not a people, but now the people of God. Which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy. 11 Dearly beloved, I beseech as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul; 12 having your conversation honest among the Gentiles. That, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation.
This is the calling to take up our cross and suffer for His sake. So that the many will turn to behold the glory of God today and in the future to come.
Set His Love
Set His Love
Devarim 7:7
7 Yehovah did not set His love upon you, nor choose you, because you were more in number than any people; for you the fewest of all people.
What follows is one of the most refreshing passages of the entire Bible. Remember He is the God that states in Malakhi 3:6.
6 For I Yehovah, I change not; therefore you sons of Yaaqov are not consumed.
Yehovah placed His love on us. He does not change. His love is a continuous thing, all we need to do is answer His calling. As He loved Yisrael in Devarim 7, He loves Yisrael to this day physical and spiritual Yisrael.
Yehovah tells us that He did not love us because we were more in numbers. In fact, we were the fewest of people. He explains next.
Devarim 7:8
8 But because Yehovah loved you, and because He would keep the oath which he had sworn to your fathers, has Yehovah brought you out with a mighty hand, and redeemed you out of the house of bondmen, from the hand of Pharaoh king of Mitzrayim.
He loved us because He loved us. He loved us because He would keep His oath that He swore to our fathers. If you are a non-Jew who is born-again, this includes you too. Paul declares for all born again believers in 1 Corinthians 10:1-2.
1 Moreover, brethren, I would not that you should be ignorant, how that all our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea; 2 and were all baptized to Moshe in the cloud and in the sea;
Those who crossed the Red Sea with Moshe are the fathers of all born-again believers. Through the adoption, born again believers have become a part of the Commonwealth of Yisrael, Galatians 4:4-7.
4 But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth His Son, made of a woman, made under the law, 5 to redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons. 6 And because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father. 7 Wherefore you are no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then a heir of God through Messiah.
All who are born again have been adopted into Yisrael. As He has loved Yisrael from the beginning, His love for you is eternal. It is the oath He made to our fathers. You are freed from Pharaoh as much as you were freed from the greater Pharoah.
Devarim 7:9
9 Know therefore that Yehovah your Redeemer, He Redeemer, the faithful God (el), which keeps covenant and mercy with them that love Him and keep His commandments to a thousand generations;
He loves us to a 1000 generation. That places us right into Eternity. It is important we realize that this is for those that keep the covenant. There is good and bad in this. He never states how perfectly one has to keep the covenant. But eventually we will all have fulfilled the covenant from the beginning.
He also shows mercy to those that love Him and keep His commandments. Many believe that this is not applicable anymore. However, remember He is the God that does not change. At the end of Malakhi, Yehovah tells us to remember a specific thing, Malakhi 4:4.
4 Remember the Torah of Moshe My servant, which I commanded to him in Chorev for all Yisrael, the statutes and judgments.
He tells us to remember Torah. He knew many would forget, although Yeshua tells us in Yochanan 5:46-47.
46 For had you believed Moshe, you would have believed Me. For he wrote of Me. 47 But if you believe not his writings, how will you believe My words?
Many have forgotten the relationship between Torah and God’s love. Yeshua told the disciples in Yochanan 15:14.
14 You are My friends, if you do whatsoever I command you.
We are closest to God when we do as He tells us. As it was true for Avraham, it is for us, Yaaqov 2:21-24.
21 Was not Avraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Yitzchaq his son upon the altar? 22 See how faith worked with his works, and by works was faith made perfect? 23 And the Scripture was fulfilled which said, Avraham believed God, and it was imputed to him for righteousness. And he was called the Friend of God. 24 You see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.
Yes, God loves you, but don’t ever take that for granted. He loves best those that keep the covenant tirelessly and are diligent to be obedient to His word. These will be the ones that are closest today and the future to come.
Devarim 7:10
10 And repays them that hate Him to their face, to destroy them. He will not be slack to him that hates Him, He will repay him to his face.
It is interesting that in the midst of love, the subject of hate comes up. When considering all this, we should consider what is love and what is hate. Yochanan defines love for us in 2 Yochanan 6.
6 And this is love, that we walk after His commandments. This is the commandment, that, as you have heard from the beginning, you should walk in it.
Love is to walk in His commandments. If love is to walk in His commandments, then would hate be to disregard His commandments? This is something we should all consider. Someday many us will have to answer the question did we really love God? Why wait, study Scriptures the answer is obvious.
Yochanan goes on to tell us in 1 Yochanan 5:2-3.
2 By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God, and keep His commandments. 3 For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments. And His commandments are not grievous.
Not only do we show our love to God through His commandments, we show our love for His people through practicing His commandments. Further, His commandments are not grievous. If not grievous, then they are light. Possibly, this is what is being referred to in Matityahu 11:28-30.
28 Come to Me, all that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart. And you will find rest to your souls. 30 For My yoke easy, and My burden is light.
What we are to learn is to perform the commandments in the newness of the Spirit. This was one of the major issues Yeshua discussed with the Scribes and Pharisees, Mark 7:7-9.
7 Howbeit in vain do they worship Me, teaching doctrines the commandments of men. 8 For laying aside the commandment of God, you hold the tradition of men, the washing of pots and cups and many other such like things you do. 9 And He said to them, Full well you reject the commandment of God, that you may keep your own tradition.
Be careful that the traditions you keep do not overshadow the commandments He would have us do.
If you love God, do His commandments they are not grievous. It converts our soul to His ways in love.
Blessings from Obedience
Blessings from Obedience
Devarim 7:11
11 You shall therefore keep the commandments, and the statutes, and the judgments, which I command you this day, to do them.
Because He loves us, we have a covenant with Him. Because we love Him, we should practice His commandments, statutes and judgments. This alone should be reason enough to observe Torah. Yet there are blessings for being His people and Torah observant.
Devarim 7:12
12 Wherefore it shall come to pass, if you hearken to these judgments, and keep, and do them, that Yehovah your Redeemer shall keep to you the covenant and the mercy which He swore to your fathers.
If we hear and obey the judgments, Yehovah will keep the covenant with His people and show mercy. What is important here is, Yehovah would prefer that we keep them perfectly. Unfortunately, we as people have never done that, but His mercy has never left us. He has not forgotten His people Yisrael as He tells us in Romans 11:25-29.
25 For I would not, brethren, that you should be ignorant of this mystery, lest you should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Yisrael, until the fulness of the Nations be come in. 26 And so all Yisrael shall be saved, As it is written, There shall come out of Tziyyon the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Yaaqov. 27 For this My covenant to them, when I shall take away their sins. 28 As concerning the gospel, enemies for your sakes. But as touching the election, beloved for the Fathers’ sakes. 29 For the gifts and calling of God without repentance.
God’s love and mercy extends far beyond what most of us imagine. He is a consistent God that loves His people Yisrael. He has not given up on us, as most have. That is why today a small strip of land has fulfilled Zekharya 12:1-4.
1 The prophecy (massa) of the word of Yehovah for Yisrael, says Yehovah, which stretches forth the heavens, and lays the foundation of the land and forms the spirit of man (adam) within him. 2 Behold, I will make Yerushalayim a cup of trembling to all the people round about, when they shall be in the siege both against Yehudah against Yerushalayim. 3 And in that day will I make Yerushalayim a burdensome stone for all people. All that burden themselves with it shall be cut in pieces, though all the people of the land be gathered together against it. 4 In that day, says Yehovah, I will smite every horse with astonishment, and his rider with madness. And I will open My eyes upon the house of Yehudah, and will smite every horse of the people with blindness.
This is what is occurring in the world today. As it is for physical Yisrael, it has been for Spiritual Yisrael. Spiritual Yisrael, those that are pursuing the newness of the Spirit. He has not forgotten us and is moving on our behalf to prosper in His ways.
Devarim 7:13-14
13 And He will love you, and bless you, and multiply you. He will also bless the fruit of your womb, and the fruit of your land, your grain, and your wine, and your oil, the increase of your kine, and the flocks of your sheep, in the land which He swore to your fathers to give you. 14 You shall be blessed above all people. There shall not be male or female barren among you, or among your cattle.
Our obedience and love for Yehovah results in blessings and multiplying of the people. This is not just referring to physical families. It is referring to what happened to the First Century Assembly and should be happening today, Acts 5:10-14.
10 Then fell she down straightway at his feet, and yielded up the spirit. And the young men came in, and found her dead, and, carrying forth, buried by her husband. 11 And great fear came upon all the assembly, and upon as many as heard these things. 12 And by the hands of the Apostles were many signs and wonders done among the people; and they were all with one accord (homothumadon) in Solomon’s porch. 13 And of the rest durst no man join himself to them. But the people magnified them. 14 And believers were the more added to the Lord, multitudes both of men and women.
When this occurred, the nonbelievers feared the people of God and believers were added. In the First Century, the Apostles and Prophets followed the commandments of God. They had less problems with traditions of men than we do today. Today we fight 2000 years of the infiltration of the Harlot and new traditions of the Rabbis since then. But we can change that today. When we walk in His ways, He blesses all we put our hands to.
Take Away our Sicknesses
Take Away our Sicknesses
15 And Yehovah will take away from you all sickness, and will put none of the evil diseases of Mitzrayim, which you know, upon you; but will lay them upon all that hate you.
When we walk in His ways, He takes sicknesses away from us and places them on our enemies.
So many want divine healing; however, it is not in what one claims. It comes from obedience. Yehovah stated this in Shemos 15:26.
26 And said, If you will diligently hearken to the voice of Yehovah your Redeemer, and will do that which is upright (yashar) in His eyes, and will give ear to His commandments, and keep all His statutes, I will put none of these diseases upon you, which I have brought upon the Mitzrayim. For I Yehovah that heals you.
Many like to quote the second half of Shemos 15:26 for divine healing. They claim that God is Yehovah-Rophe, our physician. He will heal us of all our diseases. People can say that, but it is not true. No one has ever been cured of the disease of aging. It affects everyone in this lifetime.
Besides one cannot simply claim the blessing of Shemos 15:26 without meeting the condition. Healing comes more frequently to those that:
· Hearken to the voice of Yehovah.
· Do which is upright in His eyes.
· Obey Yehovah’s commandments and statutes.
Yes, it is possible to live a life of less diseases, but one must walk in Yehovah’s ways. There are no shortcuts, only obedience to Him.
Overpower our Enemies
Overpower our Enemies
Devarim 7:16
16 And you shall consume all the people which Yehovah your Redeemer shall deliver you; your eye shall have no pity upon them. Neither shall you serve their redeemers; for that a snare to you.
If we walk in the ways of Yehovah, we will be able to consume all those He delivers to us. No one will be able to stand against us. There are some requirements for this. Once He has delivered the enemies to us, we are not to take pity on them or serve their redeemers.
Although simple enough, many have repeatedly violated these two requirements. This includes the Children of Yisrael and believers since the First Century. Rather than sanctify our lives from those that oppose the faith, we have made covenants with them. We have even given them voices in our assemblies. Slowly but surely, this has eroded the faith. Eventually, these bring in traditions of their former redeemers. In the end, many believers are serving redeemers other than Yehovah.
This is why Paul told the Galatians in Galatians 4:8-9.
8 Howbeit then, when you knew not God, you did service to them which by nature are no gods. 9 But now, after that you have known God, or rather are known of God, how turn you again to the weak and beggarly elements, which you desire again to be in bondage?
Many think that this is referring to the feasts of Yehovah in Torah. However, that is not possible, the Galatians were never observing Yehovah’s Feast prior to becoming believers. They returned to their former ways. We are also warned in Colossians 2:18-23.
18 Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshipping of messengers (aggelos), intruding into those things which he has not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind, 19 and not holding the Head, from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered, and knit together, increases with the increase of God. 20 Wherefore if you be dead with Messiah from the rudiments of the world, why, as though living in the world, are you subject to ordinances, 21 touch not; taste not; handle not; 22 which all are to perish with the using; after the commandments and doctrines of men? 23 Which things have indeed a show of wisdom in will worship, and humility, and neglecting of the body; not in any honor to the satisfying of the flesh.
All sorts of traditions were being brought in the early assemblies. Traditions that were observed prior to being believers. When we do these, we are not honoring our God Yehovah, we are serving other false Gods. Many of these remain to this day. We must remove all this from our worship and return to the true faith that freed us.
Devarim 7:17
17 If you shall say in your heart, These nations more than I; how can I dispossess them?
Many times, we are confident that God will move on our behalf, that is, until we are face to face with our enemies. Then we start to allow fear to get the better of us. We need to realize that we will not defeat them on our own.
Devarim 7:18-19
18 You shall not be afraid of them, shall well remember what Yehovah your Redeemer did to Pharaoh, and to all Mitzrayim; 19 The great temptations which your eyes saw, and the signs, and the wonders, and the mighty hand, and the stretched out arm, whereby Yehovah your Redeemer brought you out. So shall Yehovah your Redeemer do to all the people of whom you are afraid.
We need to realize that God is our strength. We need to remember what He did in Mitzrayim. That is why it is important to observe Passover and the Feast of Matzos, 1 Corinthians 5:7-8.
7 Purge out therefore the old leaven, that you may be a new lump, as you are unleavened. For even Messiah our Passover is sacrificed for us. 8 Therefore let us keep the feast, not with old leaven, neither with the leaven of malice and wickedness; but with the unleavened of sincerity and truth.
We must continue the remembrance in literal and figurative form to this day.
As He has done in the past, He will continue into the present. This is what He wants us to have confidence in. Even Paul as powerful as he was in the Spirit, he tells us where his real power came from, 2 Corinthians 12:9-10.
9 And he said to me, My grace is sufficient for you. For my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Messiah may rest upon me. 10 Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Messiah’s sake. For when I am weak, then am I strong.
It was through the strength of God that Paul was able to continue through so many adversities, Colossians 1:29.
29 For this I also labor, striving according to His working, which works in me mightily.
There was a power working in Paul as it was for many in the First Century. The believers of the First Century knew this. They had learned how to be strengthen by God. The faith they demonstrated through the working of God in them is not often seen today. But the power is available to us today. We live in the latter rain; we never have to go on our own. We need to do what they did and follow the pattern that Scriptures has put forth since the beginning. We are to move as a unified body of believers in Him.
Hornets
Hornets
Devarim 7:20
20 Moreover Yehovah your Redeemer will send the hornet among them, until they that are left, and hide themselves from you, be destroyed. 21 You shall not be affrighted at them, for Yehovah your Redeemer among you, a mighty (gadol) God (el) and terrible.
Yehovah would even send hornets ahead to weaken the enemy before we arrive.
Hornets comes from the Hebrew word צִרְעָה tzirah (H6880). It is in the Bible 3 times and is always translated hornet. It is from the Hebrew word צָרַע tzara (H6879).
צָרַע tzara (H6879) is in the Bible 20 times. It is translated leper 14 times and leprous 6 times. It is used for a person who has צָרַעַת Tzaraas (H6883) leprosy. צָרַעַת Tzaraas (H6883) is in the Bible 35 times and is always translated leprosy. However, it is probably not what is known as leprosy today. צָרַע tzara (H6879) and צָרַעַת Tzaraas (H6883) are used extensively in the conditions discussed in Vayyiqra 13 and Vayyiqra 14.
Both צָרַע tzara (H6879) and צָרַעַת Tzaraas (H6883) refer to a spiritual condition that is inflicted by God on individuals and other inanimate objects of an individual. Although there are examples of Tzaraas in the Bible, one should not assume a meaning. These may have only been an example and as such would only explain a fragment of the whole condition. Although little is known of the true nature of this condition, one should not assume that it is of no value. Based on other passages of the Bible, there is both a shadow and a potential reality that will become more apparent to the individual who studies. These are applicable today and will be in the Millennium during the Restitution of All Things.
Unfortunately, because of the translation of the Hebrew words, people have ignorantly assumed that modern leprosy was contagious and established leper colonies. The separation that occurred in the Bible had nothing to do with the condition being physically contagious. What can be understood from examining these words in context, one became afflicted as a judgment by God. The biblical separation was judgment against the person. This was to prevent the sin of the individual from spreading to others by association or lack of chastisement. Additionally, the condition could subside as God decided. More than likely based on an individual’s repentance.
Regrettably, people have tried to apply what is written in Vayyiqra to modern conditions, this has led to prejudicial treatment of individuals with leprosy. Once again, humans’ inhumanity to other humans exceeds all other known ignorance and wickedness. Additionally, one should not try to apply these rules to any modern situation unless they are a qualified priest. Which there are none today nor has there been for over 1900 years.
The discussion of צָרַע tzara (H6879) and צָרַעַת Tzaraas (H6883) is limited to providing background as these two Hebrew words relate to צִרְעָה tzirah (H6880). Whether the words have a similar meaning is unknown. However, the Hebrew spellings are somewhat related and may indicate a similar condition since both are afflicted by Yehovah. There is no conclusion other than all these represent condition inflicted by Yehovah that weakens the individual.
צִרְעָה tzirah (H6880) is also used in Shemos 23:28.
28 And I will send hornets (tzirah) before you, which shall drive out the Chivvi, the Kenaani and the Chitti, from before you.
And in Yehoshua 24:12.
12 And I sent the hornets (tzirah) before you, which drove them out from before you, the two kings of the Emori; not with your sword, nor with your bow.
Whatever Yehovah actually did, it made it considerably easier for Yisreal to overcome the strongest of adversaries. As Yehovah did then, He can do for us today. That is, if we are obedient to the covenant of our fathers.
Little by Little
Little by Little
Devarim 7:22
22 And Yehovah your Redeemer will put out those nations before you by little and little. You may not consume them at once, lest the beasts of the field increase upon you.
It was never Yehovah’s intention to clear out the enemies in a single instance. If the Children of Yisrael move in God’s power, they would slowly, but steadily remove all adversaries from the land. In time, this would build their confidence and faith in Yehovah. With each victory, they would see God’s power move. They would no longer be like their parents; they will have seen what a continuous obedient faith in Yehovah results in.
The same is true for us. Paul writes in Romans 1:17.
17 For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith. As it is written, The just shall live by faith.
As a believer, we go through tests of faith. With each test, our faith should be built up. This is what the Children of Yisrael experienced. They went from smaller skirmishes to large ones as the battles continued. As with them, we must always make a decision. When faced with a greater challenge do we continue in faith, or do we draw back?
We need to face each challenge with increased strength in our faith and Yehovah’s power. We must remember 1 Peter 1:6-7.
6 Wherein you greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, you are in heaviness through manifold temptations. 7 That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perishes, though it be tried with fire, might be found to praise and honor and glory at the appearing of Yeshua Messiah.
The successful growth through our trails is what builds our faith into a rock-solid faith. It is this faith that will move us to higher levels of Spiritual Maturity. We will not only bring ourselves through trial, we will be able to enable others to move forward in their faith. When we do that, we will be able to declare as Paul did in 2 Timothy 4:17-18.
17 Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me; that by me the preaching might be fully known, and all the Gentiles might hear. And I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion. 18 And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve to His heavenly kingdom. To whom glory for ever and ever. Amen.
We too can be an example to others of well pleasing faith in God. Then we will see the victories as the Children of Yisrael will shortly see.
Devarim 7:23-24
23 But Yehovah your Redeemer shall deliver them to you, and shall destroy them with a mighty destruction, until they be destroyed. 24 And He shall deliver their kings into your hand, and you shall destroy their name from under heaven. There shall no man be able to stand before you, until you have destroyed them.
We too will be able to overcome all adversaries as Yehovah delivers all to us. No man will be able to stand against us, because we stand with Yehovah, and we keep the covenant as He does in obedience.
Not in Our House
Not in Our House
Devarim 7:25
25 The graven images of their redeemer shall you burn with fire. You shall not desire the silver or gold on them, nor take to you, lest you be snared therein. For it an abomination to Yehovah your Redeemer.
As the Children of Yisrael moved forward in victory, they were to burn all heathen redeemers. They were to stamp them out. If not, it would be a trap.
These idols could do nothing for those that served them. We must continue to believe in the unseen and develop our faith and relationship in Him. He is the only one that truly loves us.
Devarim 7:26
26 Neither shall you bring an abomination into your house, lest you be a cursed thing like it. You shall utterly detest it, and you shall utterly abhor it; for it is a cursed thing.
Of all the things stated in Devarim 7, this is probably the most important. We should not allow any abomination to be brought into our house, literally or in our minds. We should completely sanctify our house and minds in accordance with Torah. It should be swept clean and ready for Yehovah. We should know that our home and minds are cleared of any appearance of evil.
We must be mindful to regularly inspect our own homes and thoughts for items that cause shame to the faith we claim. Our homes and minds should be filled with those things that bring glory to His name and an example to others.
We must be careful, because even the slightest of abomination is a cancer waiting to take over, 1 Corinthians 5:6.
6 Your glorying not good. Know not that a little leaven leavens the whole lump?
We must be swept clean of foreign objects and worship.
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