Deuteronomy 6:19
To cast out all thine enemies from before thee, as the LORD hath spoken.
Original Language Analysis
אֶת
H853
אֶת
Strong's:
H853
Word #:
2 of 8
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
כָּל
H3605
כָּל
Strong's:
H3605
Word #:
3 of 8
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
מִפָּנֶ֑יךָ
from before
H6440
מִפָּנֶ֑יךָ
from before
Strong's:
H6440
Word #:
5 of 8
the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi
כַּֽאֲשֶׁ֖ר
H834
כַּֽאֲשֶׁ֖ר
Strong's:
H834
Word #:
6 of 8
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
Historical Context
God promised to drive out Canaanite nations (Exodus 23:27-30, 33:2, Deuteronomy 7:1-2) and fulfilled this through Joshua's conquests (Joshua 1-12). Yet complete possession required ongoing faithfulness. Israel's incomplete obedience left pockets of Canaanites who became snares (Judges 2:1-3). The promise was conditional—persistent disobedience would result in enemies remaining to discipline Israel (Judges 2:20-23). God's promises require faith and obedience, not presumption.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God's promise to 'cast out enemies' demonstrate that He enables what He commands?
- What does the conditional nature of this promise teach about the relationship between divine sovereignty and human responsibility?
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Analysis & Commentary
The promise 'to cast out all thine enemies from before thee' demonstrates God's sovereign intervention enabling covenant obedience and inheritance. The phrase 'as the LORD hath spoken' grounds confidence in divine promise, not human strength. God accomplishes what He commands—He drives out enemies, enabling Israel to possess the land. This verse illustrates the Reformed doctrine of divine sovereignty in sanctification: God commands obedience and supplies enabling grace. The 'already-not yet' tension appears: God promises victory yet requires Israel's faithful engagement. Divine sovereignty and human responsibility cooperate without contradiction.