Understanding Deuteronomy 7:21

Verse Reference: Deuteronomy 7:21 - "Thou shalt not be affrighted at them: for the Lord thy God is among you, a mighty God and terrible."

Summary of Meaning

The verse conveys a strong message of reassurance and confidence in God's presence and power. The Israelites are reminded not to be fearful of their enemies, for God, who is mighty and awesome, is with them. This sentiment reflects the broader theme of God's protection and the importance of faith in His capabilities.

Insights from Public Domain Commentaries

• Matthew Henry Commentary:

  Henry emphasizes that the Israelites' fear in battle comes from a lack of faith in God's promises. He argues that recognizing God's might should bolster their courage, reminding them of past deliverances and the divine presence among them.

• Albert Barnes' Notes:

  Barnes points out that the term "terrible" conveys not just awe-inspiring might but also the assurance of judgment against their enemies. God’s presence is a source of strength, assuring them of victory and the necessity to trust wholly in Him.

• Adam Clarke’s Commentary:

  Clarke reflects on the significance of the phrase "be affrighted" as a call to faith. He notes that they should remember their covenant with God, which should instill both confidence and a fierce loyalty to their divine protector.

Cross-References of Deuteronomy 7:21

This verse finds numerous connections throughout the Bible, underscoring the theme of divine protection and faith over fear:

• Joshua 1:9: "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."
• Isaiah 41:10: "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."
• Psalm 27:1: "The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?"
• Romans 8:31: "What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?"
• 2 Timothy 1:7: "For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control."
• Hebrews 13:6: "So we can confidently say, 'The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?'"
• 1 John 4:4: "You are from God, little children, and have overcome them; because greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world."

Thematic Connections

The overarching theme of God's omnipotence and the folly of fear permeates both the Old and New Testaments. Notably:

• God's Presence: Repeated assurances of God's nearness, as seen in Exodus 33:14 and Matthew 28:20.
• Victory Over Adversity: Themes of triumph in the face of overwhelming odds resonate in stories like David versus Goliath (1 Samuel 17).
• Covenant Assurance: The oath of God to protect His people linked with Isaiah 54:17, "No weapon formed against you shall prosper."

Practical Applications

Understanding Deuteronomy 7:21 encourages believers to rely on God’s strength and presence amid fear and uncertainty. Some practical applications include:

• Engaging in prayer to seek God's guidance and comfort in challenging times.
• Memorizing and meditating on verses that emphasize God's faithfulness and power.
• Utilizing Bible study tools and cross-references to deepen understanding and connection between verses.

Conclusion

Deuteronomy 7:21 serves as a powerful reminder of the might of God and the assurance of His presence. By cross-referencing this verse with others throughout scripture, believers can build a robust faith that withstands fears and uncertainties. This verse, like many others, invites us to engage in a continuous dialogue with God and His Word.