Deuteronomy 20:20

But you may destroy the trees that you know do not produce fruit. Use them to build siege works against the city that is waging war against you, until it falls.

Study Bible

But you may destroy the trees that you know do not produce fruit.
This phrase addresses the Israelites' conduct during warfare, specifically the siege of a city. The instruction to destroy non-fruit-bearing trees highlights a practical approach to warfare, allowing the use of available resources without compromising future sustenance. In the ancient Near East, fruit trees were vital for survival, providing food and economic stability. The preservation of fruit trees reflects a broader biblical principle of stewardship and care for creation, as seen in Genesis 2:15, where Adam is tasked with tending the Garden of Eden. The distinction between fruit-bearing and non-fruit-bearing trees also echoes Jesus' teachings in the New Testament, such as in Matthew 7:17-19, where good trees are likened to those producing good fruit, symbolizing righteous living.

Use them to build siege works against the city that is waging war against you,
The use of non-fruit-bearing trees for constructing siege works demonstrates strategic military planning. Siege works, such as ramps or towers, were essential for breaching fortified cities in ancient warfare. This reflects the historical context of the Israelites' conquest of Canaan, where they encountered heavily fortified cities. The directive underscores the importance of resourcefulness and adaptability in achieving military objectives. Theologically, this can be seen as part of God's provision for Israel, equipping them with the means to fulfill His promise of giving them the land of Canaan, as initially promised to Abraham in Genesis 15:18-21.

until it falls.
The phrase "until it falls" indicates the complete and decisive nature of the conquest expected by God. This reflects the historical reality of ancient warfare, where sieges could last for extended periods until the city was captured. Theologically, it signifies the fulfillment of divine judgment against the Canaanite cities, which were often associated with idolatry and immorality, as seen in Deuteronomy 9:4-5. The fall of these cities can be viewed as a type of the ultimate victory of God's kingdom, foreshadowing the eschatological hope found in Revelation 11:15, where the kingdoms of the world become the kingdom of Christ.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The author of Deuteronomy, delivering God's laws and instructions to the Israelites.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God, receiving instructions on warfare and conduct.

3. Canaan
The land promised to the Israelites, where they would encounter cities to besiege.

4. Siege Works
Structures built to attack and capture fortified cities during warfare.

5. Fruit Trees vs. Non-Fruit Trees
Differentiation between trees that provide sustenance and those that can be used for construction.

Teaching Points

Stewardship of Resources
God instructs the Israelites to preserve fruit trees, teaching us the importance of wise resource management and environmental stewardship.

Discernment in Action
The command to distinguish between fruit and non-fruit trees highlights the need for discernment in our decisions, ensuring that our actions align with God's purposes.

Purposeful Destruction
While destruction is sometimes necessary, it should be purposeful and not wasteful. This principle can be applied to how we handle conflicts and challenges in life.

Obedience to God's Commands
The Israelites were to follow God's specific instructions, reminding us of the importance of obedience in our spiritual walk.

Balance Between War and Peace
The passage reflects the balance between engaging in necessary conflict and preserving life-giving resources, applicable to both physical and spiritual battles.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the instruction to preserve fruit trees in Deuteronomy 20:20 reflect God's character and priorities?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of discernment from this passage to our daily decision-making?

3. How does the concept of stewardship in Deuteronomy 20:20 relate to our responsibility towards the environment today?

4. What are some modern-day "siege works" we might need to build in our spiritual lives, and how can we ensure they align with God's will?

5. How can the balance between necessary destruction and preservation in this passage inform our approach to conflict resolution in personal relationships?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 1:29-30
Highlights God's provision of plants and trees for food, emphasizing the importance of preserving fruit trees.

Leviticus 19:23-25
Discusses the laws regarding fruit trees and their use, reinforcing the value of fruit-bearing trees.

Ecclesiastes 3:1-8
Reflects on the appropriate times for various actions, including war, which relates to the context of Deuteronomy 20.

Matthew 7:17-20
Jesus uses the metaphor of trees and fruit to describe the nature of people, connecting to the idea of discernment in Deuteronomy 20:20.