How does this verse reflect God's justice and mercy in dealing with enemies?

◄ How does this verse show God's justice? ►

“When you approach a city to fight against it, you are to make an offer of peace.”

• Given just before Israel entered Canaan, this command regulated warfare for the covenant people.

• It follows earlier laws on justice (Deuteronomy 19) and precedes instructions on sieges (20:11-18), situating mercy first.

Mercy: The Offer of Peace

• God initiates reconciliation even in conflict.

– Psalm 103:8 “ The LORD is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in loving devotion.”

• Peace is offered before any sword is drawn.

– 2 Peter 3:9 “He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish…”

• The enemy may accept and live under Israel’s protection (20:11).

– Jonah 4:2 shows the same heart: God delights to relent from sending calamity.

Justice: Consequences After Rejection

• If peace is refused, warfare proceeds (Deuteronomy 20:12-18). Justice requires dealing with persistent evil.

– Deuteronomy 32:4 “All His ways are justice.”

• God’s holiness demands accountability; mercy spurned intensifies guilt.

– Romans 2:4-5 connects despised kindness to stored-up wrath.

Balancing Mercy and Justice in God’s Character

• Exodus 34:6-7 presents both traits side by side: compassionate yet “will by no means leave the guilty unpunished.”

• Deuteronomy 20:10 exemplifies this balance: sincere peace offer (mercy) followed by righteous judgment (justice) if rejected.

New Testament Echoes

• Matthew 5:44 “Love your enemies” mirrors the initial peace approach.

• Romans 12:18 “Live at peace with everyone, if possible” reflects the same principle—peace first, yet acknowledging not all will accept.

Personal Takeaways for Today

• Initiate reconciliation even with adversaries; God models it.

• Stand firmly for righteousness after mercy is declined; justice matters.

• Trust God’s seamless character—He never compromises either attribute.