Deuteronomy 31:4

And the LORD will do to them as He did to Sihon and Og, the kings of the Amorites, when He destroyed them along with their land.

Study Bible

And the LORD will do to them
This phrase emphasizes the active role of God in the events that are about to unfold. It reflects the belief in God's sovereignty and His direct involvement in the affairs of nations. The Israelites are reminded that their success is not due to their own strength but to God's intervention. This assurance is crucial as they prepare to enter the Promised Land, facing formidable enemies.

as He did to Sihon and Og,
Sihon and Og were kings of the Amorites, defeated by the Israelites under Moses' leadership (Numbers 21:21-35). These victories were significant as they demonstrated God's power and faithfulness in delivering His people. The mention of these kings serves as a reminder of past triumphs and God's ability to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles. It also reinforces the idea that God is consistent in His actions and will continue to protect and guide His people.

the kings of the Amorites,
The Amorites were a prominent group in the ancient Near East, often depicted as strong and warlike. Their defeat by the Israelites was a testament to God's power over even the most formidable foes. This reference would have been particularly encouraging to the Israelites, as it highlighted God's ability to subdue powerful adversaries and fulfill His promises.

when He destroyed them along with their land.
The destruction of Sihon and Og, along with their territories, underscores the completeness of God's victory. It was not just the kings who were defeated, but their entire domains were brought under Israelite control. This total victory serves as a foreshadowing of the conquest of Canaan, where God would similarly deliver the land into the hands of His people. It also points to the ultimate triumph of God's kingdom over all earthly powers, a theme echoed throughout Scripture.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who is faithful to His promises and powerful in His actions.

2. Sihon and Og
Kings of the Amorites who opposed Israel during their journey to the Promised Land. They were defeated by Israel under God's guidance.

3. The Amorites
A group of ancient people living in the land east of the Jordan River, known for their opposition to Israel.

4. Moses
The leader of Israel who is delivering God's message to the people, preparing them for the transition of leadership to Joshua.

5. The Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which God promised to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness
God is faithful to His promises. Just as He delivered Israel from powerful enemies, He will be faithful to us in our struggles.

Divine Power Over Adversaries
The defeat of Sihon and Og demonstrates God's power over any adversary. We can trust Him to overcome the challenges we face.

Historical Assurance for Future Challenges
Remembering past victories strengthens our faith for future battles. Reflect on how God has worked in your life and trust Him for what lies ahead.

Leadership Transition
As Moses prepares to pass leadership to Joshua, we learn the importance of trusting God's plan and His chosen leaders in our lives.

God's Sovereignty
God's actions against Sihon and Og remind us of His sovereignty over nations and history. We can rest in His control over our world today.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the defeat of Sihon and Og serve as a reminder of God's faithfulness in your life?

2. In what ways can you apply the lessons of God's power over adversaries to your current challenges?

3. How can reflecting on past victories in your life strengthen your faith for future challenges?

4. What can we learn from Moses' leadership transition to Joshua about trusting God's plan and His appointed leaders?

5. How does understanding God's sovereignty over history impact your perspective on current world events?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 21
This chapter details the battles against Sihon and Og, providing context for God's promise in Deuteronomy 31:4.

Joshua 12
Lists the defeated kings, including Sihon and Og, emphasizing God's faithfulness in delivering the land to Israel.

Psalm 136
Celebrates God's enduring love and mighty acts, including the defeat of Sihon and Og, as part of His deliverance of Israel.

Hebrews 13:8
Highlights the unchanging nature of God, reinforcing the idea that the same God who delivered Israel is active today.