How does Deuteronomy 2:28 reflect God's desire for peaceful relationships among nations? Setting the Scene - Israel is nearing the end of forty years in the wilderness and must pass through the territory of friendly neighbors on the way to Canaan. - Deuteronomy 2 records Moses recounting how the nation approached each border with restraint, seeking peaceful passage instead of conquest. Verse Under the Lens “ ‘You can sell us food for silver so that we may eat and give us water for silver so that we may drink. Only let us pass through on foot,’ ” (Deuteronomy 2:28). God’s Heart Revealed - Respect for property • Israel offers to pay rather than plunder. • The principle: “The laborer is worthy of his wages” (cf. Luke 10:7). - Desire for peace before conflict • Israel seeks permission, signaling that peace is the default. • Parallels God’s instruction: “When you approach a city to fight against it, you are to make an offer of peace” (Deuteronomy 20:10). - Witness to surrounding nations • A people claiming covenant with the living God must reflect His character—righteous, fair, peace-loving. • God’s promise to Abraham included becoming a blessing to “all the families of the earth” (Genesis 12:3). Echoes in the Rest of Scripture - Psalm 34:14: “Seek peace and pursue it.” - Romans 12:18: “If it is possible on your part, live at peace with everyone.” - Matthew 5:9: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.” - 1 Timothy 2:1-2: Prayers for rulers so “we may lead tranquil and quiet lives.” Principles for Today 1. Nations should initiate diplomacy before considering force. 2. Economic fairness—paying a fair price—fosters trust between peoples. 3. God’s people must model integrity in international dealings; character speaks louder than claims. 4. Peacemaking isn’t passive; it involves deliberate, respectful engagement, mirroring God’s own posture toward a rebellious world (John 3:17). Living It Out - Cultivate a reputation for honesty and generosity in every transaction. - Pray and advocate for policies that honor peace and justice rather than exploitation. - Remember that every peaceful bridge built can showcase God’s kingdom values to a watching world. |
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