Chapter Summary

Laws of warfare.

Discussion Questions for Deuteronomy, Chapter 20

1. Why do you think that the Lord gives rules for war? Why would a God that loves His people want them to go to war?
2. "The Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, is with you" (Deuteronomy 20:1 CSB). It is a short phrase that sums up the entirety of the story of Exodus. Think about every little detail that God ordained to facilitate Israel's freedom. How has the Lord fought battles on your behalf and given you freedom?
3. Who are your enemies today? Read Matthew 5:43-48. If you are supposed to love your enemies, are they really enemies? Who are the real enemies?
4. After dismissing those that haven't dedicated their house, enjoyed their new wine, married their wife, or are cowardly, who would be left? How would this have been different from the surrounding nations? Why would God want it this way?
5. Imagine an army so confident that they send home most of their fighters. Why could the Israelites have this confidence? Did they actually have this kind of confidence? What examples can you think of to make your case?
6. Israel's army was commanded to send home those that haven't dedicated their house, enjoyed their new wine, married their wife, or are too cowardly. They were supposed to rely on the Lord to win the battle. How can you rely on the Lord to win battles in your life this week?
7. Why would God allow the Israelites to take the plunder of cities that are far away from the promised land but not the ones that are actually in the promised land?
8. Was it just for God to command the Israelites to kill all of the inhabitants of the promised land? Why?
9. Why did God want the people in the promised land wiped out? How did Israel's eventual disobedience lead to Israel's downfall? How can this idea be applied to your own life?
10. The care for nature found in verse 19 strikes a surprisingly eco-friendly tone in the midst of warfare instructions. How does this show grace to the inhabitants to the land? What small blessings have you experienced in the midst of a big trial?

Key Words/Phrase

Battle, v. 1.

Characters

God, Moses.

Strong Verse(s)

1, 4.