Deuteronomy 7:15

And the LORD will remove from you all sickness. He will not lay upon you any of the terrible diseases you knew in Egypt, but He will inflict them on all who hate you.

Study Bible

And the LORD will remove from you all sickness.
This promise reflects God's covenantal relationship with Israel, emphasizing His role as healer and protector. In the context of the ancient Near East, where medical knowledge was limited, divine intervention in health was a significant assurance. This phrase echoes Exodus 15:26, where God declares Himself as the healer of Israel. It also foreshadows the New Testament, where Jesus heals the sick, demonstrating God's power over physical ailments (Matthew 8:16-17).

He will not lay upon you any of the terrible diseases you knew in Egypt,
The reference to diseases known in Egypt highlights the plagues that afflicted the Egyptians during the Exodus (Exodus 7-12). These plagues were both physical and symbolic, representing God's judgment against the false gods of Egypt. The Israelites, having witnessed these events, would understand this promise as a reassurance of divine protection. This also serves as a reminder of God's past deliverance and His ability to shield His people from harm, as seen in Psalm 91:3-6.

but He will inflict them on all who hate you.
This phrase underscores the principle of divine retribution, where God promises to protect His people and bring judgment upon their enemies. It reflects the covenantal blessings and curses outlined in Deuteronomy 28. Theologically, this can be seen as a type of Christ's ultimate victory over sin and death, where those who oppose God's kingdom face judgment (Revelation 19:11-21). Historically, this promise would have been a source of comfort and encouragement for Israel as they faced hostile nations in the Promised Land.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who promises protection and health to His people.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who are recipients of His promises and commandments.

3. Egypt
The land where the Israelites were enslaved, representing bondage and suffering.

4. Diseases of Egypt
Refers to the plagues and afflictions that God brought upon Egypt, symbolizing divine judgment.

5. Enemies of Israel
Those who oppose God's people and, by extension, oppose God Himself.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Health
God is sovereign over all aspects of life, including health. Trusting in His promises means believing that He has the power to protect and heal.

Obedience and Blessing
The promise of health and protection is linked to obedience. As believers, we are called to live in accordance with God's commandments to experience His blessings.

Divine Justice
God's justice is evident in His protection of His people and the judgment of their enemies. This serves as a reminder of His righteousness and the ultimate triumph of good over evil.

Faith in God's Promises
Believers are encouraged to have faith in God's promises, knowing that He is faithful to fulfill them. This faith should be reflected in our daily lives and decisions.

Community and Prayer
The New Testament encourages believers to support one another through prayer, especially in times of sickness, highlighting the importance of community in experiencing God's healing.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding God's sovereignty over health influence your perspective on sickness and healing?

2. In what ways can you align your life more closely with God's commandments to experience His blessings?

3. How does the concept of divine justice in Deuteronomy 7:15 provide comfort in facing opposition or adversity?

4. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. How did it impact your faith?

5. How can you actively participate in your faith community to support others in seeking God's healing and protection?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 15:26
This verse emphasizes God's promise to heal and protect His people if they obey His commandments, reinforcing the covenant relationship.

Psalm 103:3
Highlights God's ability to heal all diseases, showing His power and mercy.

Matthew 8:17
Connects to the fulfillment of God's healing promise through Jesus, who took our infirmities and bore our diseases.

James 5:14-15
Encourages believers to seek prayer and anointing for healing, demonstrating the continued relevance of God's healing power.