Joshua

Growing in Christ

"He opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures." Luke 24:45

Overview of Old Testament or New Testament

Links to observations drawn from other other books of the Bible

Practical and Pastoral Observations on the Book of Joshua (please read each chapter slowly and meditatively before reading observations below):

Introduction: Joshua, whose name means "Yahweh is salvation" is the name name as Jesus who is the salvation of Yahweh. The book is written largely as an eye-witness account by the author, Joshua himself (cf. chapter 24). Joshua recounts the conquest and division of the land promised to the children of Israel. The Ras Shamra Tablets describe the Canaanite religion as involving prostitution of both sexes, infant sacrifice and other corrupt and brutal practices which God wanted removed rather than be incorporated into the life of His people. This theme of avoiding syncretism is an important theme through the Scriptures as salvation comes from Yahweh alone.

Joshua 1

Succession Plan: Moses had laid hands of Joshua (Deut 34:9) and now the Lord called Joshua to step into his role with courage. Three times the call to be strong and courageous is given (v.6,7,9).

God's promises: include the broad boundaries of the promised land (v.3-4), success and victory over those competing for the land (v.4, 6, 7, 8), and His unfailing presence throughout (v.4, 8).

God's conditions: be strong and courageous (v.7), keep the covenant given (v.7), meditate continually on the conditions of the covenant (aka the law v.8) in order to live it out.

Joshua Steps Up as Leader: Joshua notified the people of his plans to cross the Jordan (v.11) and called for their loyalty. Joshua called the 2 1/2 tribes (who Moses promised (see Num 32) could settle in land east of the Jordan) to keep their promise to help take all the land before returning to their land (v.12-15). The strong response of the 2 1/2 tribes (v.16-18) was critical to success of unified Israel. The 2 1/2 tribes promised to enforce the required discipline among their own ranks (v.18). All they asked of Joshua was the Lord's blessing on Joshua (v.17) and his unfailing courage (v.18)

What is required for the success of God's people? Unity, courage, full obedience to the Lord and the provisions of our relationship with Him and loyalty to the leadership appointed by God to the end of our task and calling.

     Joshua 1:9: Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go."

Personal Response: I will do what is required for the success of God's people and urge others to do the same.

My Prayer: Father, in our spiritual warfare against the powers of darkness, encourage your people this day to learn and live as you called the people of Israel standing before the Promised Land. May we likewise be strengthened to meet the conditions of success you have laid out.

In process...please come again...