Commentary on Deuteronomy 20:16

Verse Context: Deuteronomy 20:16 states, "But of the cities of these people, which the Lord thy God doth give thee for an inheritance, thou shalt save alive nothing that breatheth." This instruction forms part of the larger military laws given to the Israelites regarding warfare, particularly in relation to the Canaanite nations.

General Commentary

This directive embodies a key aspect of God's judgment upon the Canaanite nations due to their immense wickedness. The Israelites were commanded to utterly destroy these cities and their inhabitants, which signified not only a military strategy but also a theological premise reflecting divine judgment.

Historical Context

Moses delivered these commands to a generation of Israelites poised to enter the Promised Land, fulfilling the covenantal promise. This period marked a transition from decades of wandering to taking possession of the land. The gravity of this command also highlights God's holiness and the deep-seated corruption of the Canaanite culture.

Theological Implications

This verse raises vital theological considerations regarding divine justice, mercy, and human agency:

• Divine Justice: The annihilation of Canaanite people was a result of their accumulated sin, including idolatry and immoralities, which had reached a point of no return. Matthew Henry notes that God’s judgment was inevitable as the measure of iniquity had filled.
• Mercy for Israel: Albert Barnes emphasizes that God's intent was not only to punish the Canaanites but also to protect the Israelites from the corrupting influences and practices of these nations. By eliminating their cities and people, the Israelites were safeguarded from turning towards idolatry.

Ethical Considerations

The ethical implications of this command evoke significant discussion among theologians. Adam Clarke articulates the complexities of divine warfare ethics, suggesting that such commands must be understood in light of the covenant between God and Israel, which included specific stipulations unique to that historical context.

Practical Applications

For pastors and theologians, Deuteronomy 20:16 serves as a challenging text that invites deeper reflection on the nature of God's holiness and human disobedience. It can be utilized in discussions about:

• God's Sovereignty: The sovereignty of God in directing historical events and judgments.
• Understanding judgment: The seriousness with which God views sin and the consequences thereof.
• Guidance in contemporary moral dilemmas: How believers today should respond to evil and sin from a position of righteousness without resorting to violence.

Conclusion

In summary, Deuteronomy 20:16 calls attention to God's righteous judgment while simultaneously offering a protective measure for His chosen people against moral decay. This passage serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of sin and the lengths to which God will go to maintain the sanctity of His covenant. Such texts must be approached with a heart ready to learn and discern the depths of God's will for His people, both in ancient times and in contemporary settings.

References for Further Study: Commentary by Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke on Deuteronomy should be consulted for intricate theological exploration and rich historical insights.