Deuteronomy 7:2-5
– v. 3-4: The people must not marry anyone from these nations. Intermarriage is dangerous because it can lead to idolatry and turning away from God. This warning came true later in Israel’s history, as King Solomon and others failed in this area. The New Testament also warns believers not to be “unequally yoked” with unbelievers (Deuteronomy 7:3-4; Genesis 6:2 a; Ezra 9–10; Nehemiah 13; 2 Corinthians 6:14 b). – v. 5: Israel must destroy all the idols and places of false worship in the land. They should break altars, cut down sacred groves, and burn images. This is to show their hatred for idolatry and to keep themselves from being tempted. Many good leaders in Israel followed this command, like Josiah. In the New Testament, new believers also destroyed items connected to sorcery and idols (Deuteronomy 7:5; Exodus 23:24; 34:13 c; 2 Chronicles 31:1; 2 Chronicles 34:3,7 d; Acts 19:19 e).
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