Deuteronomy 3:3

So the LORD our God also delivered Og king of Bashan and his whole army into our hands. We struck them down until no survivor was left.

Study Bible

So the LORD our God also delivered
This phrase emphasizes the divine intervention and sovereignty of God in the battles of Israel. It reflects the recurring theme in Deuteronomy of God as the deliverer of His people, fulfilling His promises to the patriarchs. This divine deliverance is a reminder of God's faithfulness and power, as seen in other instances such as the Exodus (Exodus 14:30) and the conquest of Jericho (Joshua 6:2).

Og king of Bashan
Og was one of the last of the Rephaim, a group of ancient giants mentioned in the Bible. Bashan was a fertile region east of the Jordan River, known for its strong cities and mighty warriors. The defeat of Og, a formidable opponent, demonstrated God's ability to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles. This victory is also referenced in Psalm 135:11 and Psalm 136:20, highlighting its significance in Israel's history.

and his whole army into our hands.
The phrase underscores the totality of the victory granted by God. The complete defeat of Og's forces signifies the comprehensive nature of God's deliverance. This mirrors other biblical accounts where God grants His people victory over their enemies, such as the defeat of the Midianites by Gideon (Judges 7:22).

We struck them down until no survivor was left.
This reflects the ancient Near Eastern practice of herem, or the devotion of enemies to destruction, which was often commanded by God to prevent the influence of pagan practices on Israel (Deuteronomy 7:2). The complete annihilation of Og's forces ensured the security of Israel and the purity of their worship. This act also prefigures the ultimate victory over sin and death through Jesus Christ, who conquers all spiritual enemies (1 Corinthians 15:25-26).

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who delivers His people and fulfills His promises.

2. Og, King of Bashan
A formidable Amorite king known for his giant stature and stronghold in Bashan, representing a significant threat to Israel.

3. Bashan
A fertile region east of the Jordan River, known for its strong cities and mighty warriors.

4. Israelites
The people of God, led by Moses, journeying to the Promised Land and relying on God's guidance and strength.

5. The Battle
A decisive victory granted by God, demonstrating His power and faithfulness to His promises.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Faithfulness
God is sovereign over all nations and rulers, and His promises are sure. Just as He delivered Og into Israel's hands, He will fulfill His promises to us.

Trust in God's Power
The Israelites' victory over Og was not due to their own strength but God's intervention. We must trust in God's power rather than our own abilities.

Facing Giants in Our Lives
Og represents the "giants" or challenges we face. With God's help, we can overcome obstacles that seem insurmountable.

God's Deliverance and Our Response
God's deliverance calls for a response of obedience and gratitude. We should live in a way that honors His faithfulness.

Spiritual Warfare
Just as Israel fought physical battles, we face spiritual battles. We must equip ourselves with God's armor and rely on His strength.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the victory over Og demonstrate God's faithfulness to His promises? Reflect on a time when you experienced God's faithfulness in your life.

2. In what ways can we apply the Israelites' reliance on God in battle to our own spiritual battles today?

3. What "giants" or challenges are you currently facing, and how can you trust God to help you overcome them?

4. How does the account of Og's defeat encourage you to trust in God's power rather than your own abilities?

5. How can we cultivate a heart of gratitude and obedience in response to God's deliverance in our lives? Consider connections to Psalm 136.

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 21
Provides background on the Israelites' journey and previous battles, highlighting God's consistent deliverance.

Joshua 12
Lists the defeated kings, including Og, emphasizing the fulfillment of God's promises to give Israel the land.

Psalm 136
Celebrates God's enduring love and mighty acts, including the defeat of Og, as reasons for Israel's gratitude.

Hebrews 11
Discusses faith in God's promises, exemplified by the Israelites' trust in God's deliverance.

Ephesians 6
Encourages believers to rely on God's strength in spiritual battles, paralleling Israel's reliance on God in physical battles.