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Deuteronomy 2

BSB

1 Then we turned back and headed for the wilderness by way of the Red Sea, as the LORD had instructed me, and for many days we wandered around Mount Seir. 2 At this time the LORD said to me, 3 “You have been wandering around this hill country long enough; turn to the north 4 and command the people: ‘You will pass through the territory of your brothers, the descendants of Esau, who live in Seir. They will be afraid of you, so you must be very careful. 5 Do not provoke them, for I will not give you any of their land, not even a footprint, because I have given Mount Seir to Esau as his possession. 6 You are to pay them in silver for the food you eat and the water you drink.’" 7 Indeed, the LORD your God has blessed you in all the work of your hands. He has watched over your journey through this vast wilderness. The LORD your God has been with you these forty years, and you have lacked nothing. 8 So we passed by our brothers, the descendants of Esau, who live in Seir. We turned away from the Arabah road, which comes up from Elath and Ezion-geber, and traveled along the road of the Wilderness of Moab. 9 Then the LORD said to me, “Do not harass the Moabites or provoke them to war, for I will not give you any of their land, because I have given Ar to the descendants of Lot as their possession." 10 (The Emites used to live there, a people great and many, as tall as the Anakites. 11 Like the Anakites, they were also regarded as Rephaim, though the Moabites called them Emites. 12 The Horites used to live in Seir, but the descendants of Esau drove them out. They destroyed the Horites from before them and settled in their place, just as Israel did in the land that the LORD gave them as their possession.) 13 “Now arise and cross over the Brook of Zered.” So we crossed over the Brook of Zered. 14 The time we spent traveling from Kadesh-barnea until we crossed over the Brook of Zered was thirty-eight years, until that entire generation of fighting men had perished from the camp, as the LORD had sworn to them. 15 Indeed, the LORD’s hand was against them, to eliminate them from the camp, until they had all perished. 16 Now when all the fighting men among the people had died, 17 the LORD said to me, 18 “Today you are going to cross the border of Moab at Ar. 19 But when you get close to the Ammonites, do not harass them or provoke them, for I will not give you any of the land of the Ammonites. I have given it to the descendants of Lot as their possession." 20 (That too was regarded as the land of the Rephaim, who used to live there, though the Ammonites called them Zamzummites. 21 They were a people great and many, as tall as the Anakites. But the LORD destroyed them from before the Ammonites, who drove them out and settled in their place, 22 just as He had done for the descendants of Esau who lived in Seir, when He destroyed the Horites from before them. They drove them out and have lived in their place to this day. 23 And the Avvim, who lived in villages as far as Gaza, were destroyed by the Caphtorites, who came out of Caphtor and settled in their place.) 24 “Arise, set out, and cross the Arnon Valley. See, I have delivered into your hand Sihon the Amorite, king of Heshbon, and his land. Begin to take possession of it and engage him in battle. 25 This very day I will begin to put the dread and fear of you upon all the nations under heaven. They will hear the reports of you and tremble in anguish because of you." 26 So from the Wilderness of Kedemoth I sent messengers with an offer of peace to Sihon king of Heshbon, saying, 27 “Let us pass through your land; we will stay on the main road. We will not turn to the right or to the left. 28 You can sell us food to eat and water to drink in exchange for silver. Only let us pass through on foot, 29 just as the descendants of Esau who live in Seir and the Moabites who live in Ar did for us, until we cross the Jordan into the land that the LORD our God is giving us." 30 But Sihon king of Heshbon would not let us pass through, for the LORD your God had made his spirit stubborn and his heart obstinate, that He might deliver him into your hand, as is the case this day. 31 Then the LORD said to me, “See, I have begun to deliver Sihon and his land over to you. Now begin to conquer and possess his land." 32 So Sihon and his whole army came out for battle against us at Jahaz. 33 And the LORD our God delivered him over to us, and we defeated him and his sons and his whole army. 34 At that time we captured all his cities and devoted to destruction the people of every city, including women and children. We left no survivors. 35 We carried off for ourselves only the livestock and the plunder from the cities we captured. 36 From Aroer on the rim of the Arnon Valley, along with the city in the valley, even as far as Gilead, not one city had walls too high for us. The LORD our God gave us all of them. 37 But you did not go near the land of the Ammonites, or the land along the banks of the Jabbok River, or the cities of the hill country, or any place that the LORD our God had forbidden.

Study Notes — Deuteronomy 2

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Chapter Summary

Deuteronomy chapter 2 summarizes Israel's journey from Mount Seir to the border of Moab, highlighting God's guidance and provision along the way. The chapter begins with Israel's departure from Mount Horeb and their journey through the wilderness, where God commanded them not to attack the Edomites or Moabites (Deuteronomy 2:1-7). Instead, they were to purchase food and water from these nations, demonstrating God's care for His people. The chapter also recounts Israel's victories over the Amorite kings Sihon and Og, showcasing God's power and Israel's obedience (Deuteronomy 2:24-37). Throughout the chapter, Moses emphasizes the importance of following God's commands and trusting in His guidance.

Context for the Chapter

Deuteronomy chapter 2 is part of Moses' final sermon to the Israelites before they enter the Promised Land. The chapter serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and provision, encouraging the Israelites to trust in Him and obey His commands. In the larger biblical narrative, this chapter connects to the story of Israel's deliverance from slavery in Egypt and their journey to the Promised Land, highlighting God's care and guidance throughout their history.

Heart Application

As we reflect on Deuteronomy chapter 2, we are reminded of God's faithfulness and care for us. Just as He provided for Israel in the wilderness, He provides for our needs today. We are called to trust in Him and obey His commands, knowing that He is our guide and provider.

What Does This Chapter Mean?

Deuteronomy chapter 2 is about God's care and provision for Israel as they journey through the wilderness. God guides them and provides for their needs, teaching them to trust in Him and obey His commands. As we read this chapter, we are reminded of God's faithfulness and care for us today, and we are called to trust in Him and follow His lead (Deuteronomy 2:7).

Voices from the Church

“The wilderness is a place of testing, but it is also a place of triumph. For it is in the wilderness that we learn to trust in God and obey His commands.”

— Charles Spurgeon

“God's guidance is not limited to the wilderness, but is available to us in all circumstances. We must learn to trust in Him and follow His lead, even when the path ahead is uncertain.”

— John Calvin

Outline for Preaching

  1. Introduction to the Wilderness Journey (Deuteronomy 2:1-7) — The chapter begins with Israel's departure from Mount Horeb and their journey through the wilderness, where God commanded them not to attack the Edomites or Moabites.
  2. The Journey Through the Wilderness (Deuteronomy 2:8-23) — The chapter recounts Israel's journey through the wilderness, highlighting God's guidance and provision along the way.
  3. The Conquest of Sihon and Og (Deuteronomy 2:24-37) — The chapter concludes with Israel's victories over the Amorite kings Sihon and Og, showcasing God's power and Israel's obedience.
  4. The Border of Moab (Deuteronomy 2:26-37) — The chapter ends with Israel's arrival at the border of Moab, where they prepare to enter the Promised Land.
  5. Conclusion (Deuteronomy 2:37) — The chapter concludes with a reminder of God's faithfulness and care for Israel, encouraging them to trust in Him and obey His commands.

Core Doctrines

Providence
This chapter teaches us about God's providence, as He guides and provides for Israel in the wilderness.
Faithfulness
The chapter highlights God's faithfulness to His people, despite their disobedience and lack of faith.
Obedience
The chapter emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's commands, as Israel is called to trust in Him and follow His lead.
Redemption
The chapter foreshadows God's plan of redemption, as Israel is delivered from slavery in Egypt and led to the Promised Land.

Lessons from Deuteronomy 2

  1. God's Faithfulness — Deuteronomy chapter 2 teaches us about God's faithfulness to His people, despite their disobedience and lack of faith.
  2. The Importance of Obedience — The chapter emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's commands, as Israel is called to trust in Him and follow His lead.
  3. God's Provision — The chapter highlights God's provision for Israel in the wilderness, teaching us to trust in Him and rely on His care.
  4. The Wilderness Journey — The chapter serves as a reminder that our spiritual journey is not always easy, but God is with us and guides us through the difficult times.
  5. The Promised Land — The chapter concludes with Israel's arrival at the border of Moab, reminding us that our ultimate destination is the Promised Land, where we will experience God's presence and joy.

Themes from Deuteronomy 2

  1. God's Guidance — The chapter emphasizes God's guidance and provision for Israel, teaching us to trust in Him and follow His lead.
  2. Obedience — The chapter highlights the importance of obedience to God's commands, as Israel is called to trust in Him and obey His will.
  3. Faithfulness — The chapter teaches us about God's faithfulness to His people, despite their disobedience and lack of faith.
  4. Provision — The chapter highlights God's provision for Israel in the wilderness, teaching us to trust in Him and rely on His care.
  5. Redemption — The chapter foreshadows God's plan of redemption, as Israel is delivered from slavery in Egypt and led to the Promised Land.

Questions for Meditation

  1. What does Deuteronomy chapter 2 teach us about God's character and faithfulness?
  2. How does Israel's journey through the wilderness serve as a picture of our own spiritual journey?
  3. What role does obedience play in our relationship with God, according to Deuteronomy chapter 2?
  4. How does God's provision for Israel in the wilderness encourage us to trust in Him today?
  5. What lessons can we learn from Israel's victories over Sihon and Og, and how do these victories relate to our own spiritual battles?

Detailed Chapter Outline

1. Introduction to the Wilderness Journey (Deuteronomy 2:1-7)

Deuteronomy 2:1 The chapter begins with Israel's departure from Mount Horeb and their journey through the wilderness.
Deuteronomy 2:2 God commands Israel not to attack the Edomites or Moabites, but to purchase food and water from them instead.

2. The Journey Through the Wilderness (Deuteronomy 2:8-23)

Deuteronomy 2:8 Israel passes through the territory of the Edomites and Moabites, purchasing food and water from them.
Deuteronomy 2:14 The chapter recounts Israel's journey through the wilderness, highlighting God's guidance and provision along the way.

3. The Conquest of Sihon and Og (Deuteronomy 2:24-37)

Deuteronomy 2:24 God commands Israel to attack the Amorite king Sihon, and they are victorious.
Deuteronomy 2:26 Israel defeats the Amorite king Og, and God gives them victory over their enemies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of the wilderness journey in Deuteronomy chapter 2?

The wilderness journey serves as a picture of our own spiritual journey, where we are tested and refined by God. As we see God's guidance and provision for Israel, we are reminded of His care and faithfulness to us today (Deuteronomy 2:7).

Why does God command Israel not to attack the Edomites or Moabites?

God commands Israel not to attack the Edomites or Moabites because they are related to Israel and are not to be harmed. Instead, Israel is to purchase food and water from them, demonstrating God's care for His people and His desire for them to live in peace with their neighbors (Deuteronomy 2:2-7).

What is the significance of Israel's victories over Sihon and Og?

Israel's victories over Sihon and Og demonstrate God's power and Israel's obedience. As we see God's provision and guidance for Israel, we are reminded of His faithfulness and care for us today (Deuteronomy 2:24-37).

Top Cross References

ReferenceConnection
1 Deuteronomy 2:7 → Psalm 23:1-4 Just as God provides for Israel in the wilderness, He guides and provides for us today, as seen in Psalm 23:1-4.
2 Deuteronomy 2:14 → Numbers 20:1-13 The wilderness journey in Deuteronomy chapter 2 is also recounted in Numbers 20:1-13, highlighting God's guidance and provision for Israel.
3 Deuteronomy 2:24 → Joshua 12:1-6 Israel's victories over Sihon and Og are also recorded in Joshua 12:1-6, demonstrating God's power and Israel's obedience.
4 Deuteronomy 2:26 → Genesis 19:30-38 The story of Sihon and Og is also connected to the story of Lot and his daughters in Genesis 19:30-38, highlighting the complex relationships between the nations of the ancient Near East.
5 Deuteronomy 2:37 → Genesis 32:1-33 The border of Moab, where Israel arrives at the end of Deuteronomy chapter 2, is also the location of Jacob's encounter with Esau in Genesis 32:1-33, highlighting the ongoing story of God's people and their relationships with the surrounding nations.
6 Deuteronomy 2:1 → Exodus 17:1-7 The wilderness journey in Deuteronomy chapter 2 is also connected to the story of Israel's journey from Egypt to the Promised Land, as seen in Exodus 17:1-7.
7 Deuteronomy 2:7 → Isaiah 40:1-31 The theme of God's guidance and provision in Deuteronomy chapter 2 is also seen in Isaiah 40:1-31, where God comforts His people and guides them through the wilderness of exile.
8 Deuteronomy 2:24 → Ephesians 6:10-20 The story of Israel's victories over Sihon and Og in Deuteronomy chapter 2 serves as a picture of our own spiritual battles, as seen in Ephesians 6:10-20, where we are called to trust in God's power and provision.
9 Deuteronomy 2:26 → 1 Corinthians 10:1-13 The story of Sihon and Og in Deuteronomy chapter 2 is also connected to the story of Israel's disobedience and lack of faith in 1 Corinthians 10:1-13, highlighting the importance of trusting in God's guidance and provision.
10 Deuteronomy 2:37 → Hebrews 11:1-40 The border of Moab, where Israel arrives at the end of Deuteronomy chapter 2, serves as a picture of our own journey of faith, as seen in Hebrews 11:1-40, where we are called to trust in God's promises and provision.

Sermons on Deuteronomy 2

SermonDescription
David Wilkerson Don't Die in Your Wilderness by David Wilkerson In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of holding onto God's promises in times of trouble. He reminds the congregation that God has commanded them not to fear or be
Roy Hession (Gospel in the Book of Esther) 1. the Doom of the People by Roy Hession In this sermon, the preacher discusses the theme of redemption and foreshadowing in the word of God. He emphasizes that even though the nation of Israel faced discipline and conseq
David Wilkerson Disappointments Can Be Dangerous by David Wilkerson In this sermon, the preacher shares a story about a pastor who falls asleep while traveling and has a dream about a ladder reaching into heaven. He sees angels coming and going, sy
Carter Conlon Your Enemies Are Beginning to Tremble by Carter Conlon In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of taking a journey with a larger perspective, beyond just achieving victory in one area of life. He uses the analogy of a la
Willie Mullan (Demonology) How to Overcome - Part 1 by Willie Mullan In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal story about his time as a soldier and the violent actions he took. He reflects on the consequences of his actions and the guilt he fee
Alan Bartley When Do We Need Revival? by Alan Bartley In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of soul winning and warns about the consequences of neglecting it. He refers to Ezekiel 33, where God appoints a watchman to
Willie Mullan (Men God Made) Moses by Willie Mullan In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the life of Moses and his journey with God. He highlights how Moses initially felt inadequate and unsure of his ability to lead God's people
Willie Mullan The Eternal Spirit Walking in the Spirit by Willie Mullan In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of seeking divine guidance from God. He encourages listeners to start by humbling themselves before God and asking Him what H
Joshua Daniel Trembling at God's Righteousness by Joshua Daniel This sermon focuses on the importance of not deferring obedience to God, using the example of Felix delaying his decision to follow Christ. It emphasizes the need for humility, rig
Zac Poonen Every Mountain Will Be Flattened (zech.4:6,7) by Zac Poonen Zac Poonen preaches about how God allows His people to face hindrances and obstacles to exercise their faith and experience His mighty power. He emphasizes the importance of obeyin

Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Deuteronomy 2

In his commentary on Deuteronomy chapter 2, Matthew Henry highlights God's faithfulness and provision for Israel, despite their disobedience and lack of faith. Henry notes that the wilderness journey serves as a picture of our own spiritual journey, where we are tested and refined by God. He also emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's commands, as Israel is called to trust in Him and follow His lead. As we see God's guidance and provision for Israel, we are reminded of His care and faithfulness to us today, and we are called to trust in Him and obey His will. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →

What Do You Notice?

God's Faithfulness

Throughout the chapter, we see God's faithfulness and care for Israel, despite their disobedience and lack of faith. This serves as a reminder of God's character and His commitment to His people.

Israel's Obedience

The chapter highlights the importance of Israel's obedience to God's commands. When they obey, God provides for them and gives them victory over their enemies.

The Wilderness Journey

The wilderness journey represents a time of testing and refinement for Israel. Through this journey, God prepares them for their inheritance and teaches them to trust in Him.

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