Meaning of Deuteronomy 7:6

This verse from Deuteronomy 7:6 articulates a foundational principle of the Israelite covenant: their distinct and chosen identity as a people set apart for God. It emphasizes that their status is not earned through inherent merit but is a direct result of God's sovereign choice and gracious election. This election signifies a unique relationship, one where Israel is designated as holy, meaning separated from common use and dedicated to divine purposes, and as a treasured possession, implying immense value and intimate care. This divine selection is not arbitrary but serves a purpose within God's redemptive plan for humanity.

Context and Background

Deuteronomy, meaning "second law," is a collection of Moses' farewell speeches to the Israelites before they enter the Promised Land. Chapter 7 specifically addresses the commands and warnings the people must heed once they possess the land. The verses preceding and following 7:6 detail the need to drive out the Canaanite nations and avoid adopting their idolatrous practices. In this context, God reminds Israel why they are to maintain their distinctiveness: because they are already set apart by Him. Their holy status and treasured possession are the basis for the commands to live differently from the surrounding peoples.

Key Themes and Messages

• Divine Election: The central theme is God's sovereign choice of Israel. This was not based on Israel's size, strength, or righteousness, but purely on God's love and faithfulness to His promises (Deuteronomy 7:7-8).
• Holiness: The term "holy" (Hebrew: qadosh) signifies being set apart from the profane and dedicated to God. This implies a call to purity, obedience, and a life that reflects God's character.
• Treasured Possession: The phrase "treasured possession" (Hebrew: segulah) conveys a sense of unique value and intimate ownership. Israel is not merely a possession, but a special, beloved one, like a valuable jewel or a cherished inheritance.
• Covenantal Relationship: This verse underscores the unique covenantal bond between God and Israel, a relationship characterized by mutual commitment and divine protection.

Spiritual Significance and Application

For believers today, this verse speaks to the new identity found in Christ. Through faith in Jesus, believers are also considered holy and a treasured possession of God. This is not due to their own works but by God's grace and election through Christ (Ephesians 1:4-5, 11). Understanding this truth fosters:

• Confidence and Security: Knowing one is chosen and treasured by God provides a deep sense of security and worth, independent of worldly achievements or opinions.
• Motivation for Obedience: The privilege of being God's own people should inspire a desire to live in a way that honors Him and reflects His holiness.
• Understanding of Purpose: Believers are called to be a distinct people, set apart to bear witness to God's love and redemptive work in the world.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

This verse is crucial to understanding God's overarching plan of redemption. Israel's election as a holy and treasured people was the vehicle through which God would eventually bring salvation to all nations. The New Testament reveals that the Church, comprised of both Jews and Gentiles who believe in Christ, is the continuation and expansion of this chosen people, fulfilling the promises made to Israel (Galatians 3:29; 1 Peter 2:9-10).

Analogies

• A Royal Family: Just as a king chooses a particular family to be his own, showering them with favor and privilege, God chose Israel.
• A Beloved Spouse: The intimate language of "treasured possession" can be likened to the deep love and commitment between a husband and wife, where each is precious to the other.
• A Master Craftsman's Masterpiece: A craftsman dedicates immense skill and care to a particular creation, valuing it above others. Similarly, God has uniquely crafted and values His people.

Relation to Other Verses

• Exodus 19:5-6: "Now therefore, if you will indeed obey my voice and keep my covenant, you shall be my treasured possession among all peoples, for all the earth is mine; and you shall be to me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation." This passage from Exodus establishes the foundational concept of Israel's unique status, which Deuteronomy 7:6 reiterates and expands upon.
• 1 Peter 2:9: "But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light." This New Testament verse directly echoes the language and themes of Deuteronomy 7:6, applying the concept of being a chosen, holy, and treasured people to the Church.
• John 15:16: "You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide..." Jesus' words here mirror the essence of divine election, emphasizing that God initiates the relationship and purpose for His followers.