Deuteronomy 20:11

If they accept your offer of peace and open their gates, all the people there will become forced laborers to serve you.

Study Bible

If they accept your offer of peace
This phrase indicates the possibility of a peaceful resolution before engaging in warfare. In the context of ancient Israel, offering peace was a common practice before besieging a city. This reflects God's desire for peace and mercy, even in times of conflict. The offer of peace can be seen as an opportunity for the city to submit to Israel's authority without bloodshed, aligning with the broader biblical theme of seeking peace (Psalm 34:14). It also foreshadows the peace offered through Christ, who is the ultimate peacemaker (Matthew 5:9).

and open their gates
Opening the gates symbolizes submission and acceptance of terms. In ancient times, city gates were crucial for defense, and opening them signified surrender. This act of opening the gates can be seen as a metaphor for opening one's heart to God's will, similar to the call for believers to open their hearts to Christ (Revelation 3:20). The gates also represent the transition from hostility to peace, a theme echoed in the New Testament where Christ breaks down the dividing wall of hostility (Ephesians 2:14).

all the people there will become forced laborers
This phrase reflects the historical practice of subjugating conquered peoples. Forced labor was a common outcome for those who surrendered, as seen in other ancient Near Eastern cultures. This practice ensured the economic benefit of the victors and the integration of the conquered into the society. Biblically, this can be compared to the Israelites' own experience in Egypt, where they were subjected to forced labor (Exodus 1:11). It serves as a reminder of the consequences of sin and rebellion against God, yet also points to the ultimate liberation found in Christ, who frees us from the bondage of sin (Romans 6:18).

to serve you
Service here implies a shift in allegiance and purpose. The conquered people were to serve the Israelites, which can be seen as a type of the service believers are called to in the Kingdom of God. This service is not just physical labor but a broader call to align with God's purposes. In the New Testament, believers are called to serve one another in love (Galatians 5:13), reflecting the transformation from serving earthly masters to serving Christ as Lord. This phrase also highlights the theme of servanthood, which is central to the life and ministry of Jesus, who came not to be served but to serve (Mark 10:45).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Israelites
The people receiving the instructions from God through Moses. They are preparing to enter the Promised Land and are given guidelines for warfare.

2. Canaanite Cities
The cities that the Israelites would encounter as they enter the Promised Land. These cities are the subject of the peace offer mentioned in the verse.

3. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who is delivering God's commandments and instructions to the people.

4. God
The ultimate authority giving these instructions to ensure the Israelites conduct themselves according to His will.

5. Peace Offer
A diplomatic approach commanded by God to be extended to cities before engaging in battle, highlighting a preference for peace over conflict.

Teaching Points

God's Preference for Peace
God instructs His people to offer peace before engaging in conflict, reflecting His desire for reconciliation and harmony.

Obedience to Divine Instructions
The Israelites are called to follow God's commands precisely, demonstrating the importance of obedience in the life of a believer.

The Role of Servitude
The concept of forced labor in this context can be seen as a means of integrating conquered peoples into the community, which can be a metaphor for how believers are to serve God willingly.

Moral and Ethical Warfare
The passage provides a framework for conducting warfare ethically, emphasizing the importance of offering peace and avoiding unnecessary bloodshed.

Spiritual Warfare
Just as the Israelites were to offer peace before battle, Christians are called to approach spiritual battles with a mindset of peace and reconciliation.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the instruction to offer peace first reflect God's character and His desires for His people?

2. In what ways can the principle of offering peace before conflict be applied in our personal relationships today?

3. How does the account of the Gibeonites in Joshua 9 illustrate the practical application of Deuteronomy 20:11?

4. What are some modern-day examples of "forced labor" or servitude, and how should Christians respond to these situations?

5. How can the concept of spiritual warfare be informed by the principles found in Deuteronomy 20:11, and what practical steps can we take to ensure we are approaching conflicts with a mindset of peace?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 9
The account of the Gibeonites who deceived Israel into making a peace treaty, resulting in them becoming woodcutters and water carriers, illustrating the application of Deuteronomy 20:11.

2 Chronicles 8:7-9
Describes Solomon's use of non-Israelite people as forced labor, showing a historical application of the principles outlined in Deuteronomy 20:11.

Romans 12:18
Encourages believers to live at peace with everyone, connecting the Old Testament principle of seeking peace first with New Testament teachings.