Joshua

Summary

The book of Joshua details how God is faithful to keep his promises, and raises important theological questions. Beginning with national preparations for entering the Promised Land, spies go on ahead and encounter Rahab. Joshua, the successor to Moses, is visited by the Angel of the Lord and given peculiar instructions to obey regarding the conquering of the walled city of Jericho. Israel obeys these instructions and God supernaturally crumbles the city’s great walls, allowing Israel to easily conquer Jericho. Soon after, Israel conquers Ai. The Gibeonites trick Israel’s leadership into forming an alliance, and then the five kings of the Amorites wage war against Israel and Gibeon; Joshua prays and God makes the sun stand still for hours until Israel vanquishes its enemies. Then, Israel wages a military campaign throughout the north of Canaan, conquering more of the land. The land is divided among the tribes of Israel, with special designations for some cities. Israel zealously seeks to obey God’s commands, and carefully avoids idol worship. Finally, Joshua charges the leaders of the tribes of Israel to be courageous and faithful in serving God, and the book concludes with the death of Joshua.

Major Passages

Every place that the sole of your foot will tread upon I have given unto you, just as I promised to Moses.

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.