Deuteronomy 7:1-11

Moses mentioned seven nations that resided in Canaan here (Deuteronomy 7:1), but as many as 10 appear in other passages (cf. Genesis 15:19-21; Exodus 34:11; Numbers 13:28-29; Judges 3:5). Perhaps Moses named seven here for rhetorical purposes, seven being a number that indicates completion or fullness. One reason for the total extermination of these idolaters was the evil effect their corrupt worship would have on the Israelites and their relationship with Yahweh (Deuteronomy 7:4). [Note: See Tremper Longman III, "The Divine Warrior: The New Testament Use of an Old Testament Motif," Westminster Theological Journal 44 (Fall 1982):290-307.] They deserved to die for their sins (Deuteronomy 9:4-5) and for their persistent hatred of God (Deuteronomy 7:10; cf. Genesis 9:25-26; Genesis 10:15-18; Exodus 23:23).

"Thus he is not speaking of those Canaanites who actually forsook their idols and followed the Lord [such as Rahab]." [Note: Sailhamer, p. 440.]

Israel was to be different from other nations (i.e., holy) because God had chosen to bless her (Deuteronomy 7:6). Likewise Christians today should deal ruthlessly with sin in our lives (cf. 1 Corinthians 5:6). Israel’s election was not due to anything in her that merited God’s favor, but only to the free choice of God to bless whom He would bless.

"Israel had a priestly tribe, the tribe of Levi, but the nation as a whole was also to be a priesthood. The historical function of a priest was to represent man to God. The tribe of Levi represented Israel before God; and the nation Israel was to represent the Gentile nations before God." [Note: Fruchtenbaum, p. 115.]

God’s promises to the Israelites’ forefathers and His deliverance of Israel out of Egypt were demonstrations of the love that lay behind God’s election. The motive of love comes through clearly. The reason for this love was not that its recipients were attractive but that its giver is a loving Person.