1. Courageous soldiers needed (1-9)

When the Israelites were to go into battle, they were commanded to be courageous, believing the Lord was with them. The army officers were to tell their soldiers that if they were too frightened or absorbed in other affairs, it was better to go home. Once the time had come to fight, an army of double-minded soldiers would be a recipe for disaster. For us, there is a time for considering our options and a time for action. We should not act rashly; but when we have decided on a course of action, we should do it boldly and courageously or not at all.

2. Limits on warfare (10-20)

This passage should be understood in the context of the Israelites being used as instruments of God's judgment on the Canaanite nations; this is not identical to the gospel mission. Even then, there were limits to prevent them from waging war with a bloodthirsty attitude. The people in the city under siege could spare their lives by humbling themselves and surrendering. The conquerors were also commanded not to destroy the natural resources of their land.