Deuteronomy 7:18: “But do not be afraid of them; remember well what the Lord your God did to Pharaoh and to all Egypt.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
Deuteronomy 7:18 is God’s direct response to the fears of the Israelites as they faced the daunting task of conquering the Promised Land. In the previous verse, God acknowledged their fear by reminding them of the strength of the nations they would encounter. In this verse, God encourages them not to be afraid, pointing them back to His past faithfulness. The command “remember well” is a call to recall the miraculous events of the Exodus, where God delivered them from Pharaoh and the powerful nation of Egypt. This reminder is meant to strengthen their faith by reflecting on what God had already done. If God could defeat the might of Egypt, then no enemy in the Promised Land could stand against Him.
Historical Context
This verse was spoken to the Israelites as they stood on the threshold of the Promised Land after wandering in the wilderness for forty years. They were about to face nations that were militarily stronger and more established than they were. In their past, the Israelites had witnessed God’s mighty acts during the Exodus: the plagues that humbled Egypt, the parting of the Red Sea, and the defeat of Pharaoh’s army. These events were foundational to their identity as God’s chosen people and served as a powerful testimony of God’s ability to deliver them from any threat. In the context of entering the Promised Land, God was reminding them to draw courage from His past actions, assuring them that just as He had been faithful before, He would be faithful again.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Deuteronomy 7:18 emphasizes the importance of remembering God’s past faithfulness as a basis for trusting Him in the present. This verse teaches that God’s actions in history are not just distant stories; they are meant to inspire confidence and courage in the face of current challenges. God’s command to “remember” shows that faith is often strengthened by looking back at what God has already done. It’s a reminder that the same God who delivered Israel from Egypt is still active and present. This verse also underscores that fear should not have the final say; instead, believers are called to focus on God’s power and His proven track record of deliverance.
Literary Analysis
Deuteronomy 7:18 uses the powerful technique of remembrance to encourage the Israelites. The phrase “remember well” serves as a command to actively recall and dwell on God’s mighty works. This approach transforms fear into faith by shifting the focus from the size of the enemy to the greatness of God. The verse directly links the Israelites’ current fears to God’s past victories, creating a bridge between memory and hope. The reference to Pharaoh and Egypt is deliberate, as these were not just any enemies but the most powerful empire of the time. By highlighting this comparison, the verse reinforces the message that no challenge is too great for God.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Exodus 14:13-14: “Moses answered the people, ‘Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.’” This passage recounts God’s dramatic rescue of the Israelites at the Red Sea.
- Psalm 77:11-12: “I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago. I will consider all your works and meditate on all your mighty deeds.” This psalm emphasizes the importance of remembering God’s works to build faith.
- Hebrews 13:8: “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” This verse reminds us that the God who worked wonders in the past remains unchanged and powerful today.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, Deuteronomy 7:18 is a powerful reminder that God’s past faithfulness is a solid foundation for facing current fears and challenges. It encourages believers to reflect on how God has worked in their lives and in the history of His people. By remembering God’s past deliverances, we can find the courage to face the difficulties we encounter today. This verse also teaches that our trust in God should be based on His character and proven actions, not just our circumstances. Christians are encouraged to face fears by focusing on God’s power, knowing that He is the same God who has been faithful throughout history.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Deuteronomy 7:18 reflects God’s loving nature by showing that He doesn’t dismiss our fears; instead, He addresses them with reminders of His faithfulness. God’s encouragement to remember what He has done is an act of compassion, as He knows that recalling His past actions can strengthen our faith. God’s love is evident in how He continually reassures His people, reminding them that they are not alone in their battles. This verse shows that God’s love includes guiding His people back to the truth of His power and presence, helping them to overcome fear with the knowledge of His unchanging faithfulness.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Deuteronomy 7:18 connects to Jesus Christ, who often reminded His followers of God’s faithfulness and called them to trust in Him. Jesus repeatedly told His disciples, “Do not be afraid,” pointing them to the reality of God’s presence and power. In the New Testament, Jesus Himself is the ultimate demonstration of God’s faithfulness and deliverance, fulfilling God’s promises to His people. In Matthew 28:20, Jesus reassures His disciples, saying, “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” This reflects the same assurance that God gave the Israelites—that He is with them and will continue to be their strength. Through Jesus, believers have the confidence that God’s deliverance is not just a past event but a present reality.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How can you actively remember God’s past faithfulness in your own life when facing fears or challenges?
- What are some specific ways God has delivered you or shown His faithfulness in the past?
- How does recalling God’s actions in history help you trust Him with your current circumstances?
- How can you encourage others by sharing stories of God’s faithfulness?
- In what ways does Jesus’ promise to be with us always give you courage in difficult times?
This verse calls us to remember God’s mighty works, trust in His unchanging nature, and face our fears with the confidence that He will continue to be faithful.