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Commentary on Deuteronomy 28 verses 1–14
The blessings are here put before the curses, to intimate, 1. That God is slow to anger, but swift to show mercy: he has said it, and sworn, that he would much rather we would obey and live than sin and die. It is his delight to bless. 2. That though both the promises and the threatenings are designed to bring and hold us to our duty, yet it is better that we be allured to that which is good by a filial hope of God's favour than that we be frightened to it by a servile fear of his wrath. That obedience pleases best which comes from a principle of delight in God's goodness. Now,
I. We have here the conditions upon which the blessing is promised. 1. It is upon condition that they diligently hearken to the voice of God (Deu 28:1, Deu 28:2), that they hear God speaking to them by his word, and use their utmost endeavours to acquaint themselves with his will, Deu 28:13. 2. Upon condition that they observe and do all his commandments (and in order to obedience there is need of observation) and that theykeep the commandments of God (Deu 28:9) and walk in his ways. Not only do them for once, but keep them for ever; not only set out in his ways, but walk in them to the end. 3. Upon condition that they should not go aside either to the right hand or to the left, either to superstition on the one hand, or profaneness on the other; and particularly that they should not go after other gods (Deu 28:14), which was the sin that of all others they were most prone to, and God would be most displeased with. Let them take care to keep up religion, both the form and power of it, in their families and nation, and God would not fail to bless them.
II. The particulars of this blessing.
1.It is promised that the providence of God should prosper them in all their outward concerns. These blessings are said to overtake them, Deu 28:2. Good people sometimes, under the sense of their unworthiness, are ready to fly from the blessing and to conclude that it belongs not to them,; but the blessing shall find them out and follow them notwithstanding. Thus in the great day the blessing will overtake the righteous that say, Lord, when saw we thee hungry and fed thee? Mat 25:37. Observe,
(1.)Several things are enumerated in which God by his providence would bless them: - [1.] They should be safe and easy; a blessing should rest upon their persons wherever they were, in the city, or in the field, Deu 28:3. Whether their habitation was in town or country, whether they were husbandmen or tradesmen, whether their business called them into the city or into the field, they should be preserved from the dangers and have the comforts of their condition. This blessing should attend them in their journeys, going out and coming in, Deu 28:6. Their persons should be protected, and the affair they went about should succeed well. Observe here, What a necessary and constant dependence we have upon God both for the continuance and comfort of this life. We need him at every turn, in all the various movements of life; we cannot be safe if he withdraw his protection, nor easy if he suspend his favour; but, if he bless us, go where we will it is well with us. [2.] Their families should be built up in a numerous issue: blessed shall be the fruit of thy body (Deu 28:4), and in that the Lord shall make thee plenteous (Deu 28:11), in pursuance of the promise made to Abraham, that his seed should be as the stars of heaven for multitude, and that God would be a God to them, than which a greater blessing, and more comprehensive, could not be entailed upon the fruit of their body. See Isa 61:9. [3.] They should be rich, and have an abundance of all the good things of this life, which are promised them, not merely that they might have the pleasure of enjoying them, but (as bishop Patrick observes out of one of the Jewish writers) that they might have wherewithal to honour God, and might be helped and encouraged to serve him cheerfully and to proceed and persevere in their obedience to him. A blessing is promised, First, On all they had without doors, corn and cattle in the field (Deu 28:4, Deu 28:11), their cows and sheep particularly, which would be blessed for the owners' sakes, and made blessings to them. In order to this, it is promised that God would give them rain in due season, which is called his good treasure (Deu 28:12), because with this river of God the earth is enriched, Psa 65:9. Our constant supplies we must see coming from God's good treasure, and own our obligations to him for them; if he withhold his rain, the fruits both of the ground and of the cattle soon perish. Secondly, On all they had within doors, the basket and the store (Deu 28:5), the store-houses or barns, Deu 28:8. When it is brought home, God will bless it, and not blow upon it as sometimes he does, Hag 1:6, Hag 1:9. We depend upon God and his blessing, not only for our yearly corn out of the field, but for our daily bread out of our basket and store, and therefore are taught to pray for it every day. [4.] They should have success in all their employments, which would be a constant satisfaction to them: "The Lord shall command the blessing (and it is he only that can command it) upon thee, not only in all thou hast, but in all thou doest, all that thou settest thy hand to," Deu 28:8. This intimated that even when they were rich they must not be idle, but must find some good employment or other to set their hand to, and God would own their industry, and bless the work of their hand (Deu 28:12); for that which makes rich, and keeps so, is the blessing of the Lord upon the hand of the diligent, Pro 10:4, Pro 10:22. [5.] They should have honour among their neighbours (Deu 28:1): The Lord thy God will set thee on high above all nations. He made them so, by taking them into covenant with himself, Deu 26:19. And he would make them more and more so by their outward prosperity, if they would not by sin disparage themselves. Two things should help to make them great among the nations: - First, Their wealth (Deu 28:12): "Thou shalt lend to many nations upon interest" (which they were allowed to take form the neighbouring nations), "but thou shalt not have occasion to borrow." This would give them great influence with all about them; for the borrower is servant to the lender. It may be meant of trade and commerce, that they should export abundantly more than they should import, which would keep the balance on their side. Secondly, Their power (Deu 28:13): "The Lord shall make thee the head, to give law to all about thee, to exact tribute, and to arbitrate all controversies." Every sheaf should bow to theirs, which would make them so considerable that all the people of the earth would be afraid of them (Deu 28:10), that is, would reverence their true grandeur, and dread making them their enemies. The flourishing of religion among them, and the blessing of God upon them, would make them formidable to all their neighbours, terrible as an army with banners. [6.] They should be victorious over their enemies, and prosper in all their wars. If any were so daring as to rise up against them to oppress them, or encroach upon them, it should be at their peril, they should certainly fall before them, Deu 28:7. The forces of the enemy, though entirely drawn up to come against them one way, should be entirely routed, and flee before them seven ways, each making the best of his way.
(2.)From the whole we learn (though it were well if men would believe it) that religion and piety are the best friends to outward prosperity. Though temporal blessings do not take up so much room in the promises of the New Testament as they do in those of the Old, yet it is enough that our Lord Jesus has given us his word (and surely we may take his word) that if we seek first the kingdom of God, and the righteousness thereof, all other things shall be added to us, as far as Infinite Wisdom sees good; and who can desire them further? Mat 6:33.
2.It is likewise promised that the grace of God should establish them a holy people, Deu 28:9. Having taken them into covenant with himself, he would keep them in covenant; and, provided they used the means of stedfastness, he would give them the grace of steadfastness, that they should not depart from him. Note, Those that are sincere in holiness God will establish in holiness; and he is of power to do it, Rom 16:25. He that is holy shall be holy still; and those whom God establishes in holiness he thereby establishes a people to himself, for a long as we keep close to God he will never forsake us. This establishment of their religion would be the establishment of their reputation (Deu 28:10): All the people of the earth shall see, and own, that thou art called by the name of the Lord, that is, "that thou art a most excellent and glorious people, under the particular care and countenance of the great God. They shall be made to know that a people called by the name Jehovah are without doubt the happiest people under the sun, even their enemies themselves being judges." The favourites of Heaven are truly great, and, first or last, it will be made to appear that they are so, if not in this world, yet at that day when those who confess Christ now shall be confessed by him before men and angels, as those whom he delights to honour.
[Daniel 9:11] "'And (the curse) has come upon us drop by drop.'" That is, Thou hast not poured out upon us all of Thy wrath, for we should not have been able to bear it, but Thou hast poured forth a mere droplet of Thy fury, in order that we might return unto Thee once we have been immeshed in Thy snare.
"'The malediction and the curse which were written in the book of Moses, the servant of God...'" In Deuteronomy we read the curses and blessings of the Lord (Deuteronomy 27:11-28:14), which were afterwards uttered in Mount Gerizim and Ebal upon the righteous and upon the sinners.
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SUMMARY
Deuteronomy 28:7 stands as a potent divine promise within the covenant blessings, assuring ancient Israel that their faithful adherence to God's commands would invoke His direct intervention, leading to decisive and overwhelming victory over their adversaries. This verse vividly portrays God's active role in scattering their enemies, transforming an organized assault into a panicked, multi-directional rout, thereby underscoring the security and triumph that accompany covenant obedience.
CONTEXT
Literary Context: Deuteronomy 28:7 is strategically positioned within the covenant blessings outlined in Deuteronomy 28. Following the general assurances of prosperity and divine favor for obedience (verses 1-6), this verse specifically addresses military triumph, forming a crucial component of the comprehensive well-being promised to Israel. It operates as a direct and tangible outcome of their faithful adherence to the Mosaic covenant, setting the stage for the stark contrast of curses that would follow in the event of disobedience (verses 15-68). The immediate verses preceding it, such as Deuteronomy 28:4, speak of fruitfulness, while this verse pivots to security and defense against external threats, highlighting the holistic nature of God's provision.
Historical & Cultural Context: This promise was given to the Israelites as they stood on the plains of Moab, poised to enter the Promised Land. Having wandered for forty years, this generation was about to face established, often hostile, Canaanite nations. The book of Deuteronomy itself serves as a covenant renewal, reiterating the Law and the terms of their relationship with Yahweh before the conquest began. In a world where military might determined survival and dominance, the assurance of divine intervention against enemies was not merely a spiritual comfort but a practical necessity, promising security in a volatile region. The concept of a deity fighting for their people was not unique, but the nature of Yahweh's intervention, tied to moral obedience and covenant fidelity, set Israel apart from surrounding nations whose gods were often seen as capricious or less directly involved in the moral lives of their adherents.
Key Themes: Deuteronomy 28:7 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Deuteronomy and the broader Pentateuch. Firstly, it underscores the theme of Divine Sovereignty and Intervention, emphasizing that Israel's success is not contingent on their own strength or military prowess, but on the direct action of the LORD, who "shall cause" their enemies to be defeated. This echoes earlier divine promises of protection, as seen in Exodus 14:14, where God declares He will fight for His people. Secondly, the verse vividly portrays Overwhelming and Decisive Victory. The imagery of enemies scattering "seven ways" after coming "one way" is a powerful hyperbole signifying a complete and chaotic rout, a total vanquishing of opposition that leaves no room for doubt about God's superior power. This theme is foundational to Israel's identity as a people whose battles are fought by God, a concept reiterated in Joshua 23:10, where one Israelite can chase a thousand enemies because the LORD fights for them. Finally, and critically, this promise is deeply embedded within the theme of Covenant Faithfulness and its Consequences. Like all blessings in Deuteronomy 28, this triumph is conditional upon Israel's obedience to God's statutes and commands, reinforcing the principle that a right relationship with Yahweh yields tangible benefits, including security and triumph over all forms of opposition.
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
Deuteronomy 28:7 employs several potent literary devices to convey its message of divine victory. The most prominent is Hyperbole, seen in the vivid contrast of enemies coming "one way" and fleeing "seven ways." This exaggeration is not meant to be taken literally but powerfully illustrates the overwhelming and complete nature of the defeat God will inflict upon Israel's adversaries, transforming an organized attack into utter chaos. This is further reinforced by Parallelism, specifically antithetical parallelism, where the unified advance ("one way") is directly contrasted with the scattered retreat ("seven ways"), heightening the dramatic effect of God's intervention and the stark reversal of fortunes. The verse also utilizes strong Imagery, painting a clear mental picture of an organized army dissolving into a panicked, multi-directional flight, evoking a sense of divine terror and confusion among the adversaries. Finally, the phrase "The LORD shall cause thine enemies... to be smitten" exemplifies Divine Agency, attributing direct action and causation to God, portraying Him as the active warrior who fights on behalf of His people, rather than Israel achieving victory solely through their own strength or military strategy.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Deuteronomy 28:7 is a profound theological statement on God's active role as the divine warrior and protector of His covenant people. It highlights the principle that true security and victory are ultimately derived from God's sovereign power and His faithfulness to His promises, rather than human strength or military might. This verse reinforces the concept of a conditional covenant, where obedience unlocks divine favor and protection, demonstrating God's commitment to uphold His end of the agreement. It also foreshadows the broader biblical narrative of God consistently intervening on behalf of His people against overwhelming odds, a theme that resonates throughout Israel's history and finds its ultimate expression in the spiritual victories achieved through Christ. The divine promise here establishes a pattern of God's unwavering commitment to His people when they walk in His ways.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While Deuteronomy 28:7 was given to ancient Israel in a specific historical and military context, its underlying principles offer timeless spiritual and practical application for believers today. It calls us to recognize God as our ultimate Protector and Defender, reminding us that even when faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges or spiritual adversaries, our hope and strength reside in His sovereign power. This verse encourages a posture of faithful obedience, not as a means to earn God's favor, but as a response of trust that positions us to experience His divine intervention. It assures us that God can turn any organized opposition—whether spiritual attacks, personal struggles, or societal pressures—into utter disarray, granting us overwhelming victory and peace. This promise fosters a deep sense of security, knowing that the LORD fights for us, transforming fear into confidence and chaos into triumph, and empowering us to face life's battles with divine assurance.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Is this promise of military victory still relevant for Christians today?
Answer: While the immediate context of Deuteronomy 28:7 concerned literal military victory for ancient Israel under the Mosaic Covenant, its underlying theological principles remain profoundly relevant for Christians. We understand "enemies" not primarily as physical armies, but as spiritual adversaries (e.g., Ephesians 6:12), the challenges of sin, temptation, and the various trials of life. The verse assures us that God remains our ultimate defender and can grant overwhelming victory over these spiritual and personal battles when we walk in faith and obedience. The promise shifts from a national, physical triumph to an individual, spiritual one, yet the divine power and commitment to scatter opposition remain constant, offering profound comfort and assurance to believers.
Does "one way" and "seven ways" have a literal meaning?
Answer: The phrases "one way" and "seven ways" are not meant to be taken literally as precise numerical counts of paths. Instead, they function as a powerful hyperbole and rhetorical device to convey the dramatic contrast between the enemies' initial organized advance and their subsequent complete and chaotic rout. "One way" signifies their unified, disciplined approach, while "seven ways," drawing on the biblical symbolism of "seven" for completeness or perfection, illustrates their utter disarray, scattering in every conceivable direction. It emphasizes the totality and decisiveness of the defeat God would inflict, making it clear that the enemy would be completely vanquished and unable to regroup. This vivid imagery serves to underscore the overwhelming nature of divine intervention.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Deuteronomy 28:7, with its promise of overwhelming victory over enemies through divine intervention, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. While the Old Covenant promised physical triumph for a physical nation, Christ ushers in a New Covenant that offers spiritual victory for all who believe. He is the ultimate "Lord" who "causes" our true enemies—sin, death, and the devil—to be "smitten before our face." The organized advance of evil, which seemed to have a singular purpose in the world, was utterly defeated and scattered by Christ's sacrificial death and glorious resurrection. On the cross, Jesus disarmed the spiritual forces of evil, triumphing over them (as described in Colossians 2:15). His victory was not merely a scattering in "seven ways" but a definitive, eternal conquest that guarantees triumph for those who are "in Christ." Through Him, believers are empowered to overcome temptation and spiritual opposition, knowing that the battle has already been won by the Lamb of God who conquered death itself, as celebrated in 1 Corinthians 15:54-57. Thus, the promise of Deuteronomy 28:7 is transformed from a temporal military assurance into an eternal spiritual reality, secured by the finished work of Christ, our victorious Lord, who ensures that no enemy, spiritual or otherwise, can ultimately prevail against His redeemed people.