Commentary on the Book of Joshua

By Claudius Brown

The Book of Joshua, situated in the Old Testament of the Bible, is a pivotal narrative that chronicles the Israelites' entry into the Promised Land. This historical and religious text provides a detailed account of the conquest of Canaan under the leadership of Joshua, the successor of Moses. Comprising 24 chapters, the book is a crucial link between the Pentateuch and the subsequent historical books of the Bible.
The narrative unfolds with the death of Moses, the great leader who had led the Israelites out of Egypt. Joshua, appointed by God and affirmed by the people, emerges as the new leader tasked with the responsibility of leading the Israelites across the Jordan River into the land promised to Abraham centuries earlier. The crossing of the Jordan River is a momentous event in the book, symbolizing the transition from the wilderness wanderings to the inheritance of the land.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Claudius Brown
• Release date: Feb 25, 2024
• ISBN: 9798223436249

Claudius Brown

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Chapter 1: Crossing the Jordan River (Joshua 1-5)

The Book of Joshua begins with the transition of leadership from Moses to Joshua. God commissions Joshua to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land after the death of Moses. This chapter sets the stage for the conquest of Canaan.

Commissioning of Joshua (Joshua 1:1-9):

Verses 1-2: The Lord speaks to Joshua, emphasizing Moses' death and instructing him to lead the people across the Jordan River into the land promised to their ancestors.

let's delve deeper into Joshua Chapter 1, specifically focusing on Verses 1-2, where the Lord speaks to Joshua, emphasizing Moses' death and instructing him to lead the people across the Jordan River into the land promised to their ancestors.

Joshua Chapter 1: Verses 1-2 - The Commissioning of Joshua

Joshua, having served as Moses' assistant and witnessed the miraculous events of the Exodus, now finds himself at the forefront of a new era for the Israelites. Moses, the great leader who led the people out of Egypt, has passed away, and the mantle of leadership is handed to Joshua by divine appointment.

Verse 1 - The Passing of the Torch:

After the death of Moses the servant of the Lord, the Lord said to Joshua son of Nun, Moses' aide:* (Joshua 1:1, NIV)

This opening verse immediately sets the tone for the transition in leadership. The mention of Moses as the servant of the Lord acknowledges his significant role in leading the Israelites, but it also signals a shift in focus to Joshua. God's attention turns to the one who served faithfully under Moses, and the commissioning begins.

Verse 2 - Divine Instructions and Promises:

Moses my servant is dead. Now then, you and all these people, get ready to cross the Jordan River into the land I am about to give to them—to the Israelites.* (Joshua 1:2, NIV)

In this pivotal moment, God addresses Joshua directly, acknowledging Moses' passing with the straightforward statement, Moses my servant is dead. This declaration not only communicates the reality of the leadership transition but also serves to highlight the finality of Moses' era.

The divine instruction follows immediately, as Joshua is charged with leading the Israelites across the Jordan River into the Promised Land. The directive is clear, commanding action and preparation. God's use of the phrase get ready emphasizes the urgency and importance of the upcoming endeavor.

Key Themes:

1. Leadership Transition:

The passing of Moses marks a significant change in leadership dynamics. Joshua, who had been Moses' aide, is now called to step into the role of leading the people.

2. Divine Instruction:

God's direct command to cross the Jordan River signifies a divine plan in motion. Joshua receives explicit guidance on the next steps for the Israelites.

3. Promised Land:

The mention of the land promised to their ancestors harks back to God's covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. This emphasizes the continuity of God's faithfulness throughout generations.

Scriptural Connections:

Deuteronomy 31:7 (NIV): Then Moses summoned Joshua and said to him in the presence of all Israel, 'Be strong and courageous, for you must go with this people into the land that the Lord swore to their ancestors to give them, and you must divide it among them as their inheritance.'

This verse from Deuteronomy serves as a precursor to Joshua's commissioning, with Moses already conveying the divine mandate for Joshua to lead the people into the Promised Land.

In these opening verses of Joshua Chapter 1, we witness a seamless transition of leadership, divine guidance, and a clear call to action. The commissioning of Joshua sets the stage for the remarkable journey that lies ahead as the Israelites prepare to cross the Jordan River into the land promised by God.

Verses 3-5:** God promises the same land to Joshua that He promised to Moses, assuring him that no one will be able to stand against him.

let's delve deeper into Joshua Chapter 1, specifically focusing on Verses 3-5, where God promises Joshua the same land He promised to Moses and assures him that no one will be able to stand against him.

Joshua Chapter 1: Verses 3-5 - God's Promise to Joshua

Verse 3 - The Promise of the Land:

I will give you every place where you set your foot, as I promised Moses. (Joshua 1:3, NIV)

God's promise to Joshua echoes the covenant made with Moses. The use of the phrase every place where you set your foot conveys a sweeping assurance. It implies not just possession but dominion—an expansive inheritance awaiting the Israelites as they step into the Promised Land.

Verse 4 - The Extent of the Promise:

Your territory will extend from the desert to Lebanon, and from the great river, the Euphrates—all the Hittite country—to the Mediterranean Sea in the west.* (Joshua 1:4, NIV)

God elaborates on the extent of the promised land, providing geographical boundaries that stretch from the desert to Lebanon, and from the Euphrates River to the Mediterranean Sea. This expansive territory reaffirms the abundance and richness of the inheritance awaiting the Israelites.

Verse 5 - Assurance of His Presence:

No one will be able to stand against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you.* (Joshua 1:5, NIV)

God's assurance to Joshua goes beyond territorial promises. It encompasses divine presence, protection, and unwavering support. The declaration No one will be able to stand against you instills confidence, reminding Joshua that victory is not merely a possibility but a certainty under God's guidance.

Key Themes:

1. Continuity of God's Promises:

The promise made to Joshua is a continuation of the covenant established with Moses. God's faithfulness endures across generations, reinforcing the reliability of His word.

2. Expansive Inheritance:

The description of the land's boundaries emphasizes its vastness, symbolizing the abundance and completeness of the gift God bestows upon the Israelites.

3. Divine Presence and Assurance:

God's commitment to be with Joshua mirrors His presence with Moses. The pledge I will never leave you nor forsake you assures Joshua of continuous support, reinforcing the relational aspect of their covenant.

Scriptural Connections:

Genesis 15:18-21 (NIV): On that day the Lord made a covenant with Abram and said, 'To your descendants I give this land, from the Wadi of Egypt to the great river, the Euphrates—the land of the Kenites, Kenizzites, Kadmonites, Hittites, Perizzites, Rephaites, Amorites, Canaanites, Girgashites and Jebusites.'

This passage from Genesis serves as the foundation of God's promise to Abraham, setting the stage for the fulfillment of that promise in the time of Joshua.

Deuteronomy 31:6 (NIV): Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.

This verse from Deuteronomy echoes the reassurance given to Joshua, emphasizing the enduring presence and support of God.

In Verses 3-5 of Joshua Chapter 1, we witness the unfolding of God's promise, not only in terms of territory but also in the profound assurance of His perpetual presence and protection. The divine commitment spans generations, reinforcing the unchanging nature of God's covenant with His people.

Verses 6-9: Joshua is encouraged to be strong and courageous, following God's law and meditating on it day and night.

let's explore Joshua Chapter 1, specifically focusing on Verses 6-9, where Joshua is encouraged to be strong and courageous, following God's law and meditating on it day and night. Joshua

Chapter 1: Verses 6-9 - Encouragement and Divine Guidance for Joshua

Verse 6 - Be Strong and Courageous:

Be strong and courageous, because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their ancestors to give them.* (Joshua 1:6, NIV)

The repetition of the encouragement to be strong and courageous is noteworthy. It reflects the challenges and uncertainties that Joshua is about to face. This directive is not merely an expression of confidence; it is a divine imperative, setting the tone for Joshua's leadership.

Verse 7 - Obedience to God's Law:

Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go.* (Joshua 1:7, NIV)

Strength and courage, according to God's counsel, are directly linked to obedience. The command to be very courageous implies an extra measure of boldness required for unwavering obedience to God's law. The success of Joshua's leadership is intricately tied to his commitment to follow the divine instructions laid out in the law.

Verse 8 - Meditation on God's Law:

Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. (Joshua 1:8, NIV)

The emphasis on the constant presence of God's law in Joshua's life is profound. The command to meditate on it day and night underscores the need for a continual and intentional reflection on the divine principles laid out in the Scriptures. The purpose is not just knowledge but a deep understanding that translates into righteous actions.

Verse 9 - God's Presence and Reassurance:

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.* (Joshua 1:9, NIV)

The divine reassurance reaches its pinnacle in Verse 9. God, having reinforced the call to courage multiple times, now assures Joshua that His presence will accompany him wherever he goes. The phrases do not be afraid and do not be discouraged counteract potential doubts and anxieties, establishing unwavering confidence in God's faithfulness.

Key Themes:

1. Courage in Leadership:

The recurring encouragement for Joshua to be strong and courageous highlights the inherent challenges of leadership and the need for steadfastness.

2. Obedience and Success:

Success in Joshua's leadership is intricately tied to obedience to God's law. The directive to follow the law without deviation underscores the divine blueprint for prosperity.

3. Meditation on God's Law:

The call to meditate on God's law day and night emphasizes the transformative power of continuous reflection on divine principles.

4. Divine Presence and Reassurance:

God's assurance that He will be with Joshua wherever he goes serves as the foundation for unwavering confidence in the face of challenges.

Scriptural Connections:

Deuteronomy 31:23 (NIV): The Lord gave this command to Joshua son of Nun: 'Be strong and courageous, for you will bring the Israelites into the land I promised them on oath, and I myself will be with you.'

This verse from Deuteronomy echoes the theme of strength and courage as Joshua prepares to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land.

Psalm 1:2-3 (NIV): But whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers.

This Psalm reinforces the concept of meditation on God's law leading to prosperity and success.

In Verses 6-9 of Joshua Chapter 1, we witness not only the divine encouragement for Joshua but also a profound blueprint for effective leadership—rooted in courage, obedience, continuous reflection on God's law, and an unshakable trust in God's abiding presence.

2. Preparations for Crossing the Jordan (Joshua 1:10-18):

let's delve deeper into Joshua Chapter 1, focusing specifically on Verses 10-18, where preparations for crossing the Jordan River are outlined.

Joshua Chapter 1: Verses 10-18 - Preparations for Crossing the Jordan**

Verse 10 - Joshua's Command to the People:

So Joshua ordered the officers of the people: 'Go through the camp and tell the people, Get your provisions ready. Three days from now you will cross the Jordan here to go in and take possession of the land the Lord your God is giving you for your own.'* (Joshua 1:10-11, NIV)

Joshua, having received divine instructions, promptly conveys the plan to the officers of the people. The urgency is evident in the command to prepare provisions for the journey. The three-day timeframe establishes a sense of immediacy and readiness, aligning with the divine directive to cross the Jordan and take possession of the promised land.

Verses 12-15 - Instructions to the Reubenites, Gadites, and Half-Tribe of Manasseh:

But to the Reubenites, the Gadites and the half-tribe of Manasseh, Joshua said, 'Remember the command that Moses the servant of the Lord gave you after he said, The Lord your God will give you rest by giving you this land."

Your wives, your children, and your livestock may stay in the land that Moses gave you east of the Jordan, but all your fighting men, ready for battle, must cross over ahead of your fellow Israelites. You are to help them until the Lord gives them rest, as he has done for you, and until they too have taken possession of the land the Lord your God is giving them. After that, you may go back and occupy your own land, which Moses the servant of the Lord gave you east of the Jordan toward the sunrise.'"* (Joshua 1:12-15, NIV)

This passage highlights the unique situation of the Reubenites, Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh. Joshua reminds them of Moses' command, emphasizing their commitment to assist their fellow Israelites in the conquest of Canaan before returning to their own land east of the Jordan. This collaboration underscores the unity and collective effort required for the fulfillment of God's promise.

Verses 16-18 - Pledge of Loyalty:

*Then they answered Joshua, 'Whatever you have commanded us we will do, and wherever you send us we will go. Just as we fully obeyed Moses, so we will obey you. Only may the Lord your God be with you as he was with Moses. Whoever rebels against your word and does not obey it, whatever you may command them, will be put to death. Only be strong and courageous!'* (Joshua 1:16-18, NIV)

The people's response to Joshua's commands reflects a deep sense of loyalty and obedience. They pledge to follow Joshua just as they obeyed Moses, highlighting the continuity of leadership and the recognition of God's guidance through chosen leaders. The seriousness of their commitment is underscored by the severe consequences for rebellion, emphasizing the importance of unity and adherence to divine commands.

Key Themes:

1. Prompt Obedience:

Joshua's swift implementation of God's instructions and the people's immediate response to prepare for the journey emphasize the importance of prompt obedience in carrying out divine mandates.

2. Unity in Diversity:

The unique situation of the Reubenites, Gadites, and half-tribe of Manasseh showcases the diverse composition of the Israelite community. The cooperation between tribes highlights the principle of unity in diversity for the common goal.

3. Loyalty and Obedience:

The people's pledge to obey Joshua, coupled with the severe consequences for rebellion, underscores the themes of loyalty and unwavering obedience to appointed leaders in the divine plan.

Scriptural Connections:

Numbers 32:20-22 (NIV): Then Moses said to them, 'If you will do this—if you will arm yourselves before the Lord for battle and if all of you who are armed cross over the Jordan before the Lord until he has driven his enemies out before him—then when the land is subdued before the Lord, you may return and be free from your obligation to the Lord and to Israel. And this land will be your possession before the Lord.'*

This passage from Numbers provides background to Joshua's instructions to the Reubenites, Gadites, and half-tribe of Manasseh, highlighting the agreement made with Moses regarding their role in the conquest.

Deuteronomy 31:7-8 (NIV): Then Moses summoned Joshua and said to him in the presence of all Israel, 'Be strong and courageous, for you must go with this people into the land that the Lord swore to their ancestors to give them, and you must divide it among them as their inheritance. The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.'*

Moses' words to Joshua in Deuteronomy provide a foundation for the continuity of leadership and the divine assurance that Joshua carries forward.

In Verses 10-18 of Joshua Chapter 1, we witness the practical preparations and the collective commitment of the Israelites as they ready themselves for the significant journey across the Jordan. The themes of prompt obedience, unity in diversity, and the importance of loyalty and obedience to divinely appointed leaders are central to this phase of preparation.

Certainly, let's delve deeper into Joshua Chapter 1, focusing on Verses 10-18, where the practical preparations and collective commitment of the Israelites for the journey across the Jordan River are highlighted. This section emphasizes themes of prompt obedience, unity in diversity, and the importance of loyalty and obedience to divinely appointed leaders.

Joshua Chapter 1: Verses 10-18 - Practical Preparations and Collective Commitment

Verse 10 - Joshua's Command and Urgency:

So Joshua ordered the officers of the people: 'Go through the camp and tell the people, Get your provisions ready. Three days from now you will cross the Jordan here to go in and take possession of the land the Lord your God is giving you for your own.' (Joshua 1:10-11, NIV)

Upon receiving God's command, Joshua promptly takes action, exemplifying prompt obedience. He instructs the officers to traverse the camp, conveying a sense of urgency for the people to prepare provisions. The three-day timeframe establishes a focused period for readiness, emphasizing the immediacy of the divine plan.

Verses 12-15 - The Unique Situation of Reubenites, Gadites, and Half-Tribe of Manasseh:

But to the Reubenites, the Gadites and the half-tribe of Manasseh, Joshua said, 'Remember the command that Moses the servant of the Lord gave you after he said, The Lord your God will give you rest by giving you this land. Your wives, your children, and your livestock may stay in the land that Moses gave you east of the Jordan, but all your fighting men, ready for battle, must cross over ahead of your fellow Israelites.'* (Joshua 1:12-14, NIV)

The unique situation of the Reubenites, Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh is addressed. Joshua reminds them of Moses' command, highlighting the commitment to provide military assistance to their fellow Israelites before settling in their own lands. This demonstrates unity in diversity, emphasizing collective responsibility in fulfilling God's plan.

You are to help them until the Lord gives them rest, as he has done for you, and until they too have taken possession of the land the Lord your God is giving them. After that, you may go back and occupy your own land, which Moses the servant of the Lord gave you east of the Jordan toward the sunrise.'* (Joshua 1:15, NIV)

The collaboration between tribes is not merely an obligation but a mutual support system. The unity displayed in their commitment to help until their fellow Israelites secure the land accentuates the interconnectedness of their destinies.

Verses 16-18 - The People's Pledge of Loyalty:

Then they answered Joshua, 'Whatever you have commanded us we will do, and wherever you send us we will go. Just as we fully obeyed Moses, so we will obey you. Only may the Lord your God be with you as he was with Moses. Whoever rebels against your word and does not obey it, whatever you may command them, will be put to death. Only be strong and courageous!'* (Joshua 1:16-18, NIV)

The people's response reflects a profound commitment to obedience and loyalty. Their words echo the sentiment expressed to Moses, emphasizing the continuity of trust in divinely appointed leaders. The severity of the consequences for rebellion underscores the gravity of their pledge, reinforcing the importance of adherence to divine commands.

Key Themes:

1. Prompt Obedience:

Joshua's immediate