And when Herod had sought for him, and found him not, he examined the keepers, and commanded that they should be put to death. And he went down from Judaea to Caesarea, and there abode.
And when he had destroyed seven nations in the land of Chanaan, he divided their land to them by lot. The Canaanite conquest's recounting emphasizes God's judgment on wickedness while fulfilling covenant promises to Abraham's descendants.
Historical Context
Seven nations (Deuteronomy 7:1—Hittites, Girgashites, Amorites, Canaanites, Perizzites, Hivites, Jebusites) represent complete conquest. Destroyed (Greek: kathaireo) means demolished/overthrew. Divided by lot (Joshua 13-19) ensured fair distribution. Paul's reference around 48 CE reminded hearers of God's faithfulness fulfilling ancient promises. The conquest typologically foreshadowed Christ conquering spiritual enemies and giving inheritance to His people.
Questions for Reflection
How does conquest demonstrate both divine judgment and covenant faithfulness?
What does complete victory teach about God's thorough redemption?
In what ways does land inheritance foreshadow spiritual inheritance in Christ?
Why recount conquest when preaching gospel centuries later?
What does fulfilling ancient promises reveal about God's reliability?
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Analysis & Commentary
And when he had destroyed seven nations in the land of Chanaan, he divided their land to them by lot. The Canaanite conquest's recounting emphasizes God's judgment on wickedness while fulfilling covenant promises to Abraham's descendants.