Understanding Deuteronomy 7:15

The verse states:

"And the Lord will take away from you all sickness, and will put none of the evil diseases of Egypt, which you know, upon you; but will lay them upon all them that hate you."

This verse is part of the larger context in which Moses is addressing the Israelites, reminding them of God’s covenant promises and His protection over them as they enter the Promised Land.

Summary of Insights from Public Domain Commentaries

• Matthew Henry's Commentary

  Henry notes that this verse illustrates God's care for His people, emphasizing that He will remove sickness from Israel and is a reminder of the consequences for the nations surrounding them. It shows a contrast between the Israelites' health and the enemies' disease, symbolizing divine favor and protection.

• Albert Barnes' Notes

  Barnes highlights that the promise of health is conditioned upon obedience to God’s commandments. The diseases of Egypt are referred to in a historical context, representing plagues that afflicted those who were unfaithful. It serves as both a comfort and a warning to remain faithful.

• Adam Clarke's Commentary

  Clarke explains that this verse reassures the Israelites of God’s intention to protect them in contrast to their former oppression in Egypt. The mention of diseases inflicted upon the enemies signifies divine justice and the recompense against those who oppose God’s people.

Bible Verse Cross-References

Deuteronomy 7:15 is interconnected with various scriptures that elaborate on themes of health, divine protection, obedience, and the covenant with Israel:

• Exodus 15:26: "If you listen carefully to the LORD your God and do what is right in his eyes, if you pay attention to his commands and keep all his decrees, I will not bring on you any of the diseases I brought on the Egyptians, for I am the LORD, who heals you."
• Exodus 23:25: "Worship the LORD your God, and his blessing will be on your food and water. I will take away sickness from among you."
• Leviticus 26:16: "I also will do this to you; I will appoint terror over you, wasting disease and fever that shall consume the eyes and make the heart ache."
• Deuteronomy 28:58-61: "If you do not carefully follow all the words of this law, which are written in this book, and do not revere this glorious and awesome name—the LORD your God—then the LORD will send fearful plagues on you and your descendants, harsh and prolonged disasters, and severe and lasting ailments."
• Psalm 91:3-6: "Surely he will save you from the fowler’s snare and from the deadly pestilence. He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart."
• Jeremiah 30:17: "But I will restore you to health and heal your wounds,’ declares the LORD, ‘because you are called an outcast, Zion for whom no one cares."
• James 5:14: "Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord."

Connections Between Bible Verses

The thematic link between Deuteronomy 7:15 and the above cited scriptures showcases God’s proactive stance in safeguarding His people against illness and affliction, emphasizing the stipulations of obedience, and the promise of restoration and healing.

Thematic Bible Verse Connections

These connections not only demonstrate God's covenant love but also invite believers to reflect on their relationship with Him. The health of God's people acts as a tangible representation of His blessing, contrasting with the curses that follow disobedience.

Cross-Referencing Biblical Texts

Utilizing tools for Bible cross-referencing can deepen understanding. By examining the links between these verses, one can grasp the overarching biblical narrative regarding the consequences of sin and the blessings of righteousness.

Bible Reference Resources

To enhance your study:

• Use a Bible concordance to find key terms related to health and divine healing.
• Consider a Bible cross-reference guide for thematic explorations.
• Explore comprehensive Bible cross-reference materials for deeper study.

Conclusion

Deuteronomy 7:15 serves as a powerful verse illustrating God's intent to protect His people from sickness as long as they remain faithful. The connections drawn through various scriptures enhance understanding of His promises and the importance of obedience. By employing cross-referencing Bible study methods, believers can uncover rich biblical themes that reaffirm faith and inspire trust in God's healing power.