Deuteronomy 7:1

When the LORD your God brings you into the land that you are entering to possess, and He drives out before you many nations--the Hittites, Girgashites, Amorites, Canaanites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites, seven nations larger and stronger than you--

Study Bible

When the LORD your God
This phrase emphasizes the covenant relationship between God and Israel. The Hebrew word for "LORD" is "Yahweh," the personal name of God, signifying His eternal presence and faithfulness. "Your God" underscores the personal and communal relationship, reminding the Israelites of their unique identity as God's chosen people. This relationship is foundational, as it is God who initiates and sustains their journey.

brings you into the land
The Hebrew verb "brings" (יָבִיא, yavi) suggests a divine action, indicating that it is God who orchestrates their entrance into the Promised Land. This is not merely a physical relocation but a fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The "land" is not just a geographical location but a place of divine inheritance and blessing.

you are entering to possess
The act of "entering" (בּוֹא, bo) and "to possess" (יָרַשׁ, yarash) implies both a journey and a conquest. The Israelites are not passive recipients; they must actively take possession of the land. This reflects the partnership between divine sovereignty and human responsibility. The land is a gift, yet it requires faith and obedience to claim it.

and He drives out before you
The phrase "drives out" (נָשַׁל, nashal) indicates a forceful removal, highlighting God's power over the nations. This action is both a judgment against the wickedness of these nations and a provision for Israel. It reassures the Israelites that God is actively working on their behalf, clearing obstacles to fulfill His promises.

many nations
The term "many" (רַבִּים, rabbim) emphasizes the formidable challenge ahead. The Israelites face numerous and diverse peoples, each with its own culture and military strength. This multiplicity underscores the miraculous nature of Israel's conquest, as it is only through God's intervention that they can succeed.

the Hittites, Girgashites, Amorites, Canaanites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites
These specific nations represent the inhabitants of Canaan, each with its own historical and cultural significance. Archaeological findings have confirmed the existence of these groups, providing a historical backdrop to the biblical narrative. Their mention serves as a reminder of the real and tangible challenges Israel faced, and the comprehensive nature of God's promise to deliver them.

seven nations larger and stronger than you
The number "seven" often symbolizes completeness or perfection in the Bible. Here, it underscores the totality of the opposition. These nations are "larger and stronger," highlighting the disparity in power and resources. This sets the stage for God to demonstrate His might and faithfulness, as Israel's victory will be attributed solely to divine intervention, not human strength.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who promises to deliver the land to His people.

2. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, led by Moses, preparing to enter the Promised Land.

3. The Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which God promised to Abraham and his descendants.

4. The Seven Nations
Hittites, Girgashites, Amorites, Canaanites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites—nations inhabiting Canaan, described as larger and stronger than Israel.

5. Moses
The leader of the Israelites, delivering God's commands and promises to the people.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Faithfulness
God is faithful to His promises, as seen in His commitment to give Israel the land He promised to their forefathers.

Dependence on God
Despite the strength and size of the nations, Israel's victory depends on God's power, not their own might.

Spiritual Warfare
Just as Israel faced physical enemies, Christians face spiritual battles and must rely on God's strength.

Obedience and Trust
Israel is called to trust and obey God's commands as they enter the land, a principle applicable to believers today.

Separation from Sin
The command to drive out the nations reflects the need for believers to separate from sin and worldly influences.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the promise of God to drive out the nations before Israel demonstrate His faithfulness and sovereignty?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of dependence on God in our own spiritual battles today?

3. How does the command to drive out the nations relate to the New Testament teaching on spiritual warfare?

4. What are some modern-day "nations" or influences that Christians need to be vigilant against, and how can we effectively separate from them?

5. How can the account of Israel's conquest of Canaan encourage us in our personal walk with God and in facing challenges that seem insurmountable?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 15
God's covenant with Abraham, promising the land of Canaan to his descendants.

Exodus 23
God's promise to send an angel before Israel to drive out the inhabitants of the land.

Joshua 3-4
The crossing of the Jordan River, marking the beginning of the conquest of Canaan.

Judges 1
The continued struggle and partial success of Israel in driving out the Canaanite nations.

Ephesians 6
The spiritual battle Christians face, drawing a parallel to the physical battles of Israel.