“And if the LORD thy God enlarge thy coast, as he hath sworn unto thy fathers, and give thee all the land which he promised to give unto thy fathers.”
Deuteronomy 19:8 is part of the larger passage in the book of Deuteronomy that deals with the establishment of cities of refuge. These cities were designated as places of refuge where someone who unintentionally caused the death of another person could flee and find protection from the avenger of blood.
This verse highlights the condition in which the Lord enlarges the coast or borders of the land given to the Israelites. Here are a few key points to consider in this Bible study:
God’s Faithfulness:The verse begins with the acknowledgment of God’s faithfulness to His promises. It mentions that if the Lord enlarges their coast, it is in fulfillment of the promise He made to their fathers (Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob) regarding the land. This emphasizes God’s faithfulness to His covenant and His commitment to fulfill His promises.
Divine Provision:The verse acknowledges that it is God who gives the land. The Israelites were not to attribute their possession of the land solely to their own efforts or military strength but recognize that it is ultimately God who grants them the land. This highlights the divine provision and grace of God.
Blessings and Responsibilities:The enlargement of their coast is a blessing from God, demonstrating His favour and provision for His people. However, it also implies that with this blessing comes responsibilities. The Israelites were to honour God, follow His commandments, and establish cities of refuge to ensure justice and fairness within the land.
Connection to the Promised Land:The verse reminds the Israelites of their connection to the promised land. The land was not given to them arbitrarily but based on the promises made to their forefathers. By emphasizing this connection, the verse underscores the significance of the land as a key part of their identity and inheritance as the chosen people of God.
Overall, Deuteronomy 19:8 underscores God’s faithfulness, His provision, and the responsibilities that come with the blessings He bestows. It reminds the Israelites of their connection to the promised land and their obligation to establish a just and righteous society. As we study this verse, we can also reflect on the broader theme of God’s faithfulness and provision in our own lives and the responsibilities that come with the blessings He has given us.
