Intro to Joshua

Rev. Troy Dennis 2010

www.onfireletter.com

The book of Joshua gives us the account of how God’s people moved into the Promised Land under the leadership of Moses’ successor, Joshua. Its narrative style and the many inspiring accounts of God’s miraculous provision make it a joy to read and study.

As one of Moses’ aides, Joshua was well-known to the people. He led the Hebrews against the Amalekites while Moses held his arms in the air (Ex. 17) and he was with Moses when received the commandments (Ex 24:12). He and Caleb were the only two spies who thought they could take the new land after spying it out (Num 13-14). Moses commissioned Joshua in Numbers 27:18-23.

The book which bears his name follows a simple outline. The first twelve chapters display God’s power and strength as His people moved into the land. The Jordan River stopped  flowing to let them cross (ch. 4), the walls of Jericho collapsed  (ch. 6), Ai was routed (ch. 8), and the sun stopped to allow the battle to finish (ch.10). As the land was opened, it was obvious that God was with them.

Chapters 13-22 tell us about the division of the land among the tribes. All but one tribe received allotments of land. The Levites received a number of towns and pasture lands instead (ch.21). Joseph received two allotments (Manasseh and Ephraim, chs. 16-17), making 12 territories in total. In addition, towns and territories were set apart for Joshua (19:49ff.) and Caleb (ch. 14). Six cities were also set apart as refuge for those who killed accidentally (ch.20).

Joshua calls people to recommit themselves as he reminds them of God’s faithfulness in chapters 23-24. As Joshua recounts their history from Abraham to their present day (ch. 24:1-13), there is no doubt that they stand in the land because of God. The relationship is not to be one-sided, however. God’s faithfulness provides reason for them to be loyal in return (24:14).

In order to keep the land they must obey God. They must throw away their foreign gods (24:15), refuse to invoke any other god but Yahweh (23:7), and disallow intermarriage with those who worship other gods (23:12). If they are faithful, God will continue to drive out the other nations (23:13).

As a final act of leadership, Joshua leads the people to renew the covenant at Shechem (ch. 24). This is where we hear Joshua’s famous words, “But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” (24:15) The good news is that the people remained faithful as long as Joshua and his elders lived (24:31).

God’s covenant loyalty is an overarching theme of the book. As long as the people are faithful, God opens the land for them. Achan stands as a notable example of what happens because of disobedience. There is a reminder here for us to be faithful. While Christians do not fall under the obligations of the old covenant, we can still recognize the principle. We should not expect blessing if we are not willing to renounce sin.

God’s power goes hand-in-hand with His covenant loyalty. The Hebrews were consistently outnumbered, outwitted, and disadvantaged, but God brought victory after victory. We should take comfort in these accounts of God’s power. Though we may often feel overwhelmed, we see from Joshua that there is no situation too large for God to overcome. 

Joshua’s life ought to inspire us. We often have the impression that Joshua was a young man, but he was more than 80 years old when he became leader of the Hebrews (check 14:7). This brings new meaning to the reminders that he should be “strong and courageous.” It is not only the young who need strength and courage. In fact, God may surprise us as He leads us into unexpected ministries in different phases of our lives. We draw inspiration from Joshua as he steps into his new role.

Character studies provide interesting ways to study the book. Expect to find both positive and negative examples of leadership and faithfulness by looking at Joshua, Rahab, Achan, Caleb, and Phinehas.

The book is not without it difficulties. God’s order to kill everything in the land is difficult to understand and does not appear just. At times like these it is important to remember that God is both just and unchanging. He cannot act in an unjust way. While we may not understand it, we may still trust in God’s perfect character.

The book of Joshua is an inspiring and encouraging account of God’s power and loyalty. As we read it, may we be strengthened and take courage for the battles we face.

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OnFire Letter is a weekly letter on authentic Christian faith and character written by Troy Dennis. See archived letters at www.onfireletter.com