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Joshua 24:1-33 

Chapter 23 begins by informing Joshua was really old. He even said so himself. By the end of Chapter 24, he is dead and buried. What do old people like to do? Reminisce, going over important people, places, things from their past. Joshua does that, sort of, but then he transitions to his final charge to the people God appointed him to lead. Were many things he could have emphasized but he kept his focus narrow, who will you worship. If they got that right, the rest would work out. If they got it wrong, would be dire consequences.

This really an important piece of finishing well – if the Lord gives breath and words as death approaches, what will be your final spoken gift to those nearby? Doesn’t appear to be something Joshua waited until last day to prepare, had thought about it and had something for a plan when the time came. No way to know precise timing of the end, certainly may have an idea when it is close… good to be prepared.

A. what God has done  v.1-13

brought out of idol-worship

starts with what has God done, spoken by God through Joshua, covering important elements of how God has blessed his people

their common ancestor and “father of their nation” who he was by God’s action – God moved him from across the River, gave not just a land but also a people… esp. Isaac and Jacob

most important, was God who changed Abraham’s worship… from generations of idol-worship to trusting / following YHWH

regardless of what Isaac did, was ultimately God’s purpose that Jacob be the one whose line would eventually lead to Redeemer

brought from Egypt

migration of people group out of Egypt not simply result of economic or social or political factors – brought about by God’s direct action

secular studies of movement of peoples and change of empire gives little or no consideration of that kind of external influence

God didn’t leave up to them to choose right leader – sent team of his own selection, equipped each for specific role he had for them

brought through danger

God did not bring out of Egypt and leave to fend for themselves – over and over God brought them through dangers they faced

clearly not their doing that Red Sea opened up, then closed again with perfect timing – sorry, Pharaoh, credit God with another win for sake of his people and his own glory

brought them safely through dangers of armed resistance, spiritual resistance (Balaam), dangers of fatigue and discouragement

NOTE: how gracious and compassionate God’s reference to 40-year “punishment” time – “Then you dwelt in the wilderness a long time”

brought to a good home

relatively low-cost land ready for continued cultivation, existing infrastructure available for use… living and protection

not starting from scratch, no need to wait for vineyards and olive orchards to grow to fruitful maturity so no hardship meanwhile

now, hint-hint, since God has done all this for you, how do you respond – remember Abraham, brought out of idolatry just like they were delivered from idol-worshiping culture

B. what you must do  v.14-24

make up your mind

unlike many throughout history have done, Joshua does not attempt to force a particular choice… just make a decision

no decision is a decision to take the easy way, the popular way, the low-cost way, iow not a choice to follow true God

for all the days God gives him Joshua and his family determined to continue serving the Lord  – used examples from their history, his own life to encourage particular answer

it won’t be easy

quick right answer, of course we will continue serving YHWH – and they did give good reason: YHWH not Canaanite gods is our God

Joshua doesn’t just accept their words and move on – reminds them how hard it will be, should know that from 40 years in wilderness

good thing to keep in mind when we encourage someone to commit to following Jesus – God expects all our loyalty, cannot do it in human strength alone

you better be sure

this a really big deal, equivalent to taking oath in courtroom setting – no pressure, is a freely made and not coerced decision

was a choice with immediate ramifications – just like Rachel of old, were foreign gods present, they needed to be destroyed immediately

probably were as sincere as they could be, at least in the moment intended to keep their commitment and would until it got hard

C. solemn commitment  v.25-28

make it official

too important to leave it to word of mouth only – too easy to misremember or even forget, needed to be in writing

especially so since was really a covenant between them and God, Joshua really the facilitator recording and making official

make it public

reminder in the sight of everyone brings frequent reminder of commitment, both from seeing it and from those who have

no hint here of public life/private faith kind of distinction – model has always been for God’s people to be openly unashamedly committed to him

make it enduring

already had monument down by Jordan River – when children ask in future “what does this stone mean”, tell them

another way of passing content of faith along from one generation to next so doesn’t get lost – clear reminder their commitment not to get lost, either, but continued by later generations

D. end of an era  v.29-33

Joshua and Eleazar died

both leaders given by God to serve as his emissaries to Hebrew children finished well, remained faithful to very end of life

were granted the honor of burial in respective family plots – another instance clearly indicates honor and respect given to dead

sure when death comes, usefulness of present body in current condition has ended – but… doesn’t mean is w/o any value

Joseph was buried

talk about effort, Joseph died >400 years earlier and consider his faith – absolute confidence God would keep his promise

God did and Hebrew children kept their part of the agreement – carefully transported his remains and buried him with other family

full body burial one way we can show our faith like Joseph, confident that when Jesus returns these bodies will be resurrected

God’s people continued

old guard is gone, no one officially appointed by God or Joshua to lead the people on – did manage ok for a while

as long as elders who were contemporaries of Joshua lived, people stayed true and served YHWH but…

seems like much was not passed on to next generations – those who had some firsthand experience not able to adequately inspire children/grandchildren to keep up commitment

None of this any easier for us today than for them in Joshua’s time. Idols people worship, things that distract and tempt may have different labels but are just as deceitful. Requires continual effort on our part to do what will nourish us spiritually and help us stay faithful. Also takes purposeful commitment, won’t happen by itself, requires full dependence on God and his strength along with personal determined effort. And remember this – no one who finishes well will ever say “I wish I had chosen a different god to follow”.

 

Focus!

Joshua 23:1-16 

Staying focused seems to be an issue in general for a lot of people of all ages. Estimates 1 out of 10 or more in USA dealing with ADHD. Staying focused on the right thing is a problem for even more folks. May not have acquired familiar label until the 80’s but has been an issue for people since the beginning. What God told Adam and Eve only held her attention until the Serpent showed her something different. The struggle to keep a right focus has only become harder since then.

Joshua no longer a kid. Had lots of history dealing with people, even a few difficult ones at times. Knows they will be at risk whether they have good leaders or not. Remember their past!! And another thing to make Joshua nervous – no one has been identified through all of Joshua’s story as an understudy or apprentice. Nor has God explicitly appointed someone to follow him as he did Moses. The pressure is on, number of days left to Joshua getting smaller, not much time or opportunity for him to tie up loose ends and leave people prepared for what would come next. All factors in to what Joshua tells his people.

Things different now for Hebrew children but no less difficult. Will take just as much courage to stay focused and true to God, will be just as much of a struggle to persevere as ever. Will perhaps be even more influences to seduce and ensnare them in sinful ways of thinking and acting. Yet greatest help(er) no more distant or less able to keep them safe.

A. obedience takes courage  v.6

God is “on your side”

have long history of God’s provision and protection going all the way back to Egypt – promised would keep doing the same

most except the youngest had seen firsthand what God had done within land he promised to them, what he had done to the nations

shouldn’t wonder who it was who prevailed, who conquered in Canaan – were “successful” solely b/c God fought for them

keeping and doing is not easy

isn’t it interesting – Joshua repeats nearly word for word what the Lord told Joshua after Moses died (1:7)

Joshua had done his best to set them up for success – from then on, would be their responsibility to remain faithful to God

in one sense Hebrew children had reached their goal, now time to relax and enjoy – not so fast, still hard work day by day not to drift / succumb to pressures/fatigue/temptation

hold fast to your Guide

would be lots of neighbors criticizing and mocking for loyalty to unseen God – if not vigilant, would be drawn aside into idol-worship

had two essential resources: a faithful God and his written word (probably still in first printing) – sound familiar? we have the same

required far more than simple possession: focus on God and his word, courage to do so when opposed, strength to hang on… things they needed to keep on doing

B. the Lord fights for you  v.10

God is the power in your doing

surely “Commander of the army of the Lord” present on battlefield but by no means only ones there – Hebrew children part of equation

Israel’s army had essential role as did God’s unseen army – strengthening and encouraging and directing and helping to success

at same time at least some of heavenly army active on the other side, weakening and confusing and encouraging strategies favorable to Israel’s forces

all of that God’s doing and his alone – every one of those unseen warriors acting exactly according to will and purpose of God

numerical odds don’t count

outnumbered 1000 to 1 no problem at all when God is on your side – true about far more than military conflict, numbers aren’t everything

unstated but very important element of God’s plan present here – God had far more in view than simply what is best for his people

Deut. 7:7 “The LORD did not set His love on you nor choose you because you were more in number than any other people, for you were the least of all peoples;”

he intended them to be a “light to the Gentiles (Isa. 42:6; 49:6; 60:3), a witness to the world of the true God

don’t let love wander

only going to work that way if they persevered in their love for YHWH, showing their fidelity to him when required much courage

they must pay close attention, not be distracted / diverted from right path – enemies would do all they could to bring them down

not a stretch to think if Lord’s army and commander were present, so also were evil angel army and their commander Satan – spiritual warfare didn’t start with Daniel or New Testament

C. stay clear of the traps  v.13

snares and traps abound

frequently connected with relationships – “Do not love the world or the things in the world.” 1 John 2:15 – missionary dating rarely works whether romantic or financial

getting ensnared in wrong relationships results in God withdrawing his blessing – is either/or situation with no place in the middle

lined with whips and thorns

Satan is crafty, will dress up wrong things so they look acceptable, even desirable – is how he keeps people following him

anything he offers as good only the bait in trap that really causes harm and will eventually destroy – it’s his nature to do that

don’t forget: ever since he heard God’s promise of redemption in the Garden, Satan’s unswerving purpose is to defeat it

D. God can be trusted  v.14

heroes don’t last forever

would not have Joshua’s example and leadership for much longer – his lifetime of faithful service nearly at an end

Joshua one who remained true/faithful to end of life, are many who do – are also (sadly) many who fail to end well… Paul’s fellow laborer Demas, e.g., others in every age who fall away

have a safe “Plan A”

here’s where focus is again important – must both stay away from focusing on wrong things/people and focus on right Guide

God gives us guides to help in this life, ok to follow them… only so long as they follow God – only way we’ll know when they don’t is if we are following God too, our Plan A

God takes your life seriously

God doesn’t get us started, pointed in right direction, then leave on our own – stays involved in our lives with same results as for Israel

can take that both individually and nationally – if in personal life we do right, he will bless us… if not, he reserves right to withdraw blessing

same applies to nations, especially when currency proclaims “In God We Trust” – when we don’t any longer, will be consequences

So long as we hold fast to the Lord our God who is absolutely trustworthy, can count on him to do all we need, supply all we need to finish well. He will help us (Phil. 3:12-14) “press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”

Staying True

Joshua 22:1-9 

Seems social media is growing and not just in number of users. Developers at facebook trying to extend its reach into more parts of life, if Elon Musk can buy twitter, has similar talking points. A “super app” where everyone basically lives and does all the things people do. And then there is push from those who think social media and technology essential for a church to survive in our brave new world.

Got me to thinking: what will interpersonal relationships look like in that sort of world? How do you measure loyalty to people or principles when relationships are virtual and not face to face? Will faithfulness still be important? And where does perseverance fit in – is it measured by mouse clicks over time? Is a world like that where God wants his people to live?

Moses wrote about the Lord speaking to him “face to face, as a man speaks to his friend” (Exod. 33:11) When God himself spoke of that to Aaron and Miriam he said “I speak to him mouth to mouth” (Num. 12:8) To reduce that kind of communication and fellowship to 0’s and 1’s sent over wire or through the air impoverishes it. Only a small fraction of what is truly present in face to face or mouth to mouth communication actually makes it from one video screen to another. And some of what is important to God in relationships is simply not there any longer.

For example, pastor with 20 years experience developing and streaming worship services recommends not streaming music – too many “viewers” not really engaged during that time, maybe was on but as background until sermon began. Not a problem for Joshua and “Reubenites, the Gadites, and half the tribe of Manasseh”. When he called them and spoke to them, was both real time and real place communication, nothing virtual about it. Joshua did as good leader should – he commended them for staying true and then blessed them since they had completed tour of duty they committed to.

A. following instructions

all Moses commanded

probably foremost in mind Moses’ instructions Num. 32:20ff granting request for transJordan land but requiring them to help carry out God’s plan for Canaanites

was clear beginning and clear ending to what was required of them, expected to commit for entire duration regardless of how long it all took

private life

given where Joshua ended with his commendation (v5), reminding them to keep following commandments, probably had both in view

don’t know how they worked out providing for families – could be enough able-bodied non-warrior types to keep the farms going

was nothing either recorded earlier or referenced here of serious enough nature for Joshua to find fault – had lived and served well

religious life

even though not specifically mentioned, only by keeping spiritual house in order could they serve as they did for several years (~10)

seems Joshua not speaking only on his own, speaking for God also – always good to have God’s blessing at end of project

B. submitting to leadership

obeyed Joshua’s voice

perseverance didn’t diminish with either change of leadership or length of time – were just as obedient to Joshua as Moses

probably had number of times was tempting to call it quits, countless reasons they could come up with for doing so – family needs me, not my fight, done enough and they can finish…

public life

any hint of trouble in the ranks would have defeated God’s purpose – acting together as single people to take possession of land he had given them

were expected to take hard duties as well as others w/o complaint, same with risks – had to be right there with all the rest

exemplary volunteers

could have decided at beginning God was asking too much, more than the land was worth, gone across the river with the rest

instead chose to stay with choice of land inheritance and serve in way God commanded, did so willingly and with good heart

C. helping others

difficult duty

far from home and family, uncertain duration, all hazards that go with military camp life – yes, God was fighting for them but still was tough assignment

meanwhile their people settling in without their help, kids growing while they are deployed, enemies that don’t want to move

no direct personal benefit

was to help family, but not immediate family, move toward goal they couldn’t see yet – takes additional measure of commitment

also required good helping of trust… that God would be faithful and watch over loved ones back home during their absence

for good of the nation

their service part of ties that would bind them together as single people, not have 2-1/2 tribes drift away and assimilate into neighbor culture

was still risk of appearing that way even after were discharged from duty – altar by Jordan almost started civil war, v.10ff, but they sorted it out amicably

not for burnt offering or sacrifice (26) but as a Witness for both them and tribes on other side of Jordan that they were all to worship the same God

D. obeying God

big shift in focus

from military to farm life, lay down weapons and pick up tools, remember how to behave toward wife and children, find place to live and serve in different community

sometimes finishing a project leaves you at loose ends – what do you pick up and work on next, certainly different excitement level

same need for faithful perseverance

not a new expectation, really a reminder that while loyalty to friends and family is good, loyalty to God is expected at all times

was really God’s example of faithfulness they had been following, needed to carry on same with close family and friends

Faithful perseverance something every child of God can do better at. Reminders of who we are to serve whether by word or object like the altar can be very helpful. Most helpful is closeness to Lord Jesus, as Joshua said “to hold fast to him”. And remember, too, he is holding fast to us and he won’t let go.

Provision, Places, Promise and Peace

Joshua 21:1-3, 41-45 

 Joshua now very near the end of his magnum opus, his great work carried out under the watchful and loving eye of God. All land assignments made, cities of refuge designated, one very important detail still needing attention. Tribe of Levi not given anywhere to settle down – still couch surfing after more than 10 years. Neighbors don’t seem to have given much thought, probably getting tired of uncertainty, call family meeting to deal with it so they can move forward.

This tribe one of two most important to future of God’s plan, the other being tribe of Judah. Judah must survive to fulfill prophecy regarding God’s purpose to send a Redeemer. Levi must survive in order for people to be ready to receive their Redeemer. Precise God-given instructions meant no corporate worship without Levites. Was also responsibility of priests and Levites to oversee religious instruction for all the tribes. What is described of God’s purpose here key factors in enabling tribe of Levi to carry out their service to God and fellow-man.

This not a new problem to solve, rather command to be followed. Levites reminded, rest of the tribes responded, really way it ought to always be. Regardless of how reminder comes, “natural” default response should be willing obedience. Appears that was indeed how Israelites responded under leadership of Eleazar and Joshua.

A. particular provision  v.1-2

one tribe only

thirteen “assignments” for inheritance have already been made – E & W Manasseh and Ephraim plus the rest of the original twelve tribes’ lands allotted

Levi singled out along with Simeon during lifetime by Jacob, noted for anger and cruelty, told they would be scattered in Israel… about to finally happen

picked cities

not up to members of tribe to pick where they wanted to settle – left to landholders to voluntarily give space in both city and pasture

at same time, God intimately involved in the process – order of Levite families determined by lot – incl. 6 cities of refuge + others

places already under control of Israelites, did not require either labor or risk by Levites to dispossess Canaanites and move in

grazing rights

farming a labor-intensive occupation, required constant attention by men of family if were to be productive enough to meet needs

not so much effort to pasture a few animals, something Levite men could manage along with regular ministry assignments

expectation that not only housing and grazing needs addressed, worshipers would be attentive and supply the rest – an issue Nehemiah had to deal with later, Neh. 13:10ff

B. purposeful placement  v.3, 41-42

from their inheritance

not a new idea, God had already made plain through Moses how it would work – part of God’s comprehensive plan: land grant + God-ordained productivity would be sufficient for people plus Levites

were giving out to Levites but not giving up, not depriving themselves – as long as they trusted God, would have sufficient left

places already “conquered”

not God’s intention that “warriors” be ones serving in ministry – principle will come up again few hundred years later, David’s desire to build a house for God

if Levites were expected to manage land grant and deal with Canaanites, would not be time or strength for “church work”, especially the kind they were expected to do – God’s plan accounted for that

spread throughout all Israel

total of 48 cities with surrounding pasture land chosen for use of Levites from north to south, east to west, w/i easy reach of all

served on rotation at Tabernacle, later Temple, yet typical daily life for ministry types not segregated from everyone else

model sanctioned by God one where spiritual leaders accessible to and regularly interacting with people they were called to serve

C. performed promise  v. 43

the Lord gave

refer to “Joshua and the Conquest of Canaan”, easy to think Hebrew children under leadership of Joshua took land from previous and maybe rightful owners, an aggressive land grab

not how is described in our text: was the Lord who gave them the land, means he had right of ownership… and always had it

the people took possession

were things people had to do if they wanted use of the land – act as God’s agents to remove idol-worshipers along with their idols

then expected to “subdue” it, manage territory and resources given to them by God – make resources as productive as possible according to God’s rules and for his glory

God’s rules for use of the land and inheritance intended to remind Israelites they were stewards of what ultimately belonged to God

and lived in it

as long as they operated w/i boundaries established by God, could treat as their home, their own, what they not had before

at same time, even though it was home, was not final home – not to be heaven on earth, rather shadowy picture of that

Tower of Babel showed God would not allow man to bring heaven down to earth, Abraham understood a better home still waiting

D. perfect peace  v.44-45

rest all around

important to note who brought about final outcome… end to fighting – not Joshua’s military genius, strength of Israelite army, superiority of weapons… was God who made it happen

this the kind of peace we all hope for… on all sides – no longer need to tiptoe around, have sense of real lasting security

from all their enemies

certainly far more than break in action or even negotiated truce – really a decisive end to hostility, no enemy could prevail

another declaration of how it happened, was b/c Lord had handed over their enemies to them – God weakened opposition, strengthened his people, brought about unquestioned victory

all details covered

not mostly fulfilled, substantially fulfilled, so completely accomplished could rightly say not even single word got missed, left undone

at same time… God had done his part, given what he promised… what Israelites would do with it really another question

if they would continue in faithful obedience to God, he would continue to look after them… the choice Joshua set before them shortly before his death – Josh. 24:15  

Are told “the Lord gave them rest all around”. We think of it as peace, end to conflict, for Jewish people would turn out to be temporary b/c of failure to obey God’s commands. Still remains that rest all around can only come from one source, God himself. Since we live in fallen sin-corrupted world, rest here often only temporary. Do have promise of rest that will not ever end (Heb. 4:1) but we’re not there yet.

Meanwhile, is place where we can experience rest and peace. Closer to God we get and stay, more of it we will experience no matter what is going on around us. Requires continued effort on our part to keep distance between us and God at a minimum. With his help we can stay close and be at rest.

 

I Didn’t Mean to Do It

Joshua 20:1-9

Is very little in Bible about how world was and would have remained if mankind had not fallen into sin. Since that not part of God’s eternal plan, all we can do is speculate and not always with profit. Would trees have lost their leaves? Would vegetable plants be everbearing? How large would animals grow to be? Would stinging insects have had another purpose for their stinger? Would cars rust out, machines wear out, roofs need new shingles? And what about illness and injury, would they be issues at all? We have no real answers for those and many more questions. We do know a few things, from Genesis 3:14-19 and Romans 5:12, why we have to work so hard and life ends in death.

Also strongly suspect reason for many other things can be traced back to corruption of original order of things by sin accompanied by God’s direct curse. Know from personal experience things don’t always go according to our plans. Sometimes is clear it happens because we didn’t have all the facts, made errors in reasoning, counted on incorrect assumptions. At other times, do our best to cover all the bases, follow instructions, use all the wits we have to achieve a reasonable goal… and we still get surprised. Much, even most of the time, results are manageable even when not what we expected.

God knew all this would take place, how people would respond to some of the unexpected things that take place. He graciously built in safeguards to keep consequences for in quotes “bad things” from getting out of hand. Three times in Exodus, Leviticus, Deuteronomy God laid down principle of “eye for eye, tooth for tooth”. Usually wrongly used to justify taking revenge, not what God meant by it. He intended that consequences should not be out of proportion to the wrong done, establishing principle of just punishment – no more than eye for eye, tooth for tooth. Cities of refuge established by God for similar reason and purpose.

A. reason  v.1-3

a broken world

not broken beyond use, thank God for that – is broken in sense that no longer like new, things happen that just don’t seem right

God told Adam and Eve that original designed-in order of things no longer order of the day – things and people and actions distorted by sin, have unexpected outcomes

take smartphone, e.g. – push a button, appears that what you expected does not happen; push another button and what you don’t expect does happen

shouldn’t blame it all on Adam and Eve – yes, they started it, but many generations since have kept it going, added their share

limited control

no question we are responsible for thoughts, words, deeds – is limit to how much responsibility we should/can bear for outcome

not the only responsible agent in the picture – often one or many others involved, each with own piece to be concerned with

since we are finite beings with limited strength and power, only portion of what takes place is really under individual’s direct control

accidents happen

sad truth is things often don’t go according to plan – many things classified as accidents really could have been avoided

yet accidents do happen, often enough are standard forms for documenting, accident report, and they get used regularly

and there are those things that rightly classify as unintended results – honest intent to do what is good and helpful, actual outcome something very different

basic principles here apply to different kinds of situations, one primarily in view that of action that results in death of another person

B. regulation  v.4-6

place

something God had told them to plan for while still in wilderness – Deut 19.1-13 pick out up to six cities for specific purpose

well-spaced, accessible, clearly identified – one w/i half day’s journey from anywhere in land, three east of Jordan and three west

located on proper maintained roads, location known to everyone, not concealed from “foreigners” or restricted to citizen’s use

protection

God’s command following Flood: Gen. 9:6 “Whoever sheds man’s blood, By man his blood shall be shed; For in the image of God He made man.”

God didn’t simply give man permission to carry out capital punishment for murder, God expected him to do so – “avenger of blood” the goel, kinsman charged with seeing justice is done

God also made clear were some narrow limits to that practice – not every loss of life to be recompensed in that way

city of refuge to be place of protection from overzealous avenger, not intended to be shield from justice for one who planned to do harm

proper hearing

was to be one component of regulations designed to give opportunity for fair trial in potentially life or death matter: manslaughter or murder?

task of elders/leading men of the city to hear his case and decide – did he have case against the dead fellow and plan to kill him or was it truly accidental

God gave example to make clear what kind of situation he had in mind – cutting firewood w/neighbor, head comes off and kills him

reason for ill-will not important to the decision – simply yes or no, did he hate the other fellow beforehand or not

final decision in hands of “the congregation”, a jury of his peers – if accidental, safety in “exile” until high priest died; if intentional, delivered to the “avenger of blood”

C. response  v.7-9

locations determined

God spoke to Joshua, Joshua to the people, they selected 6 cities (as God had commanded) to serve that function – see map

one each in Naphtali, Ephraim and Judah to west of Jordan – one each in Reuben, Gad and Manasseh to east of Jordan

equal treatment

city to be a refuge for person in need regardless of their identity – for children of Israel as well as resident aliens

typical of treatment God expected his people to give to others – are to be treated justly w/o regard for country of origin

not to be differing rules based on circumstances, race, mental health, citizenship – pretty clear-cut, was it intentional or accidental

and… decision rested with fallible people who all had their own issues to deal with, yet God gave them that responsibility

commitment to obey

establishing cities in response to God’s command meant keeping rest of command – committing to following process as God laid it out

their obedience would serve interest of justice and reduce number of unjust revenge killings… good for everyone

Is important we keep things in order according to God’s definitions. Justice is of great concern to God, he himself defends weak and powerless against injustice. Is obvious by emphasis he placed on cities of refuge. Is also a responsibility he has given to the state along with authority and power to carry it out. Corrections something different altogether, task given by God to both family and church.

Micah 6:8 “He has shown you, O man, what is good; And what does the LORD require of you But to do justly, To love mercy, And to walk humbly with your God?”

Is also incumbent on us to do our part to ensure others are treated justly. Includes support for those who govern justly, for initiatives that promote just treatment, and acting justly ourselves. Given what we see/hear taking place in our communities, state, nation and world, is plenty of opportunity to add our bit to promoting justice.

Less Is More?

Joshua 19:1-9, 49-51

It appears many these days are of two minds – much about downsizing, using less energy, etc. Tiny houses are a thing these days, so are McMansions. And people keep buying –  Greater Portland… 50+ self-storage unit locations. Most of the world has no need for such. Here’s the thing about everything – the more you have, the more you are responsible for. Is biblical principle, articulated by Jesus himself:

Luke 12:48 “For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required; and to whom much has been committed, of him they will ask the more.”

Everyone is different with respect to how much responsibility each can handle well. Everyone is the same… each has a limit to what they can manage responsibly. Often even before reaching limit, quality begins to suffer in one or more areas. Go beyond the limit and everything suffers in some way. Go too far beyond and result can be collapse… it all comes crashing down including the person. Often see on small scale in child’s room, toys/clothes/stuff – collection grows and organization shrinks. Time comes when what is best for child (and parents) is for them to have less to be responsible for. Decide what is important/valuable, put/give away the rest, relax and enjoy. Can be a step better to not overload the person to begin with – see both at work here.

Were additional factors in the mix for both Simeon and Levi, full brothers w/Jacob and Leah parents. Had similar character traits (or flaws) also:

Gen. 34:2, 13-15, 24-25 And when Shechem the son of Hamor the Hivite, prince of the country, saw her, he took her and lay with her, and violated her…  But the sons of Jacob answered Shechem and Hamor his father, and spoke deceitfully, because he had defiled Dinah their sister. And they said to them, “We cannot do this thing, to give our sister to one who is uncircumcised, for that would be a reproach to us. But on this condition we will consent to you: If you will become as we are, if every male of you is circumcised…  And all who went out of the gate of his city heeded Hamor and Shechem his son; every male was circumcised, all who went out of the gate of his city. Now it came to pass on the third day, when they were in pain, that two of the sons of Jacob, Simeon and Levi, Dinah’s brothers, each took his sword and came boldly upon the city and killed all the males.  

Gen. 49:5-7 “Simeon and Levi are brothers; Instruments of cruelty are in their dwelling place. Let not my soul enter their council; Let not my honor be united to their assembly; For in their anger they slew a man, And in their self-will they hamstrung an ox. Cursed be their anger, for it is fierce; And their wrath, for it is cruel! I will divide them in Jacob And scatter them in Israel.”

In this chapter and also chapter 21 read of God’s plan to orchestrate settlement of Canaan in such a way as to deal with tendency to violence and cruelty by the two tribes. God graciously just does it, not a big deal, have to know or read their history to put some pieces together. At same time is the kind of arrangement that will bring good to rest of nation.

A. Simeon’s inheritance  v.1-8

not passed over

Jacob’s harsh words – divide and scatter – sure sounds like no inheritance – Manasseh the only one divided… by their own choice

none of other land grants so far could be interpreted as scattered – was important that Jacob’s prophetic blessing be followed, also God’s instructions to give each tribe something

also not leftovers

were not sent to end of the line, get whatever might be left when other assignments were completed – reminder of punishment

another example: God keeps his word yet doesn’t hold a grudge – not like some parents… no, you can’t, remember last time

yes, had to work for it, but place to call home intended to be a blessing, reminder of how God is faithful, takes good care of children

diluted threat

if Simeon and Levi could cause so much mayhem just the two of them, imagine what madness two tribes could cook up

or just one tribe if “allowed” to congregate in large numbers – revenge not helpful to encouraging peaceful relationships w/neighbors

at same time, relatives not so far distant they would never see one another – could still maintain safe connections w/each other

B. Judah’s overabundance  v.9

reason not left in doubt

historians and news media not left to shape the narrative – w/o clear statement door is open to all sorts of speculation

repeated demonstrations of God’s grace in how he worked all this out – set it up so Simeonites could stay out of trouble

gave his reason publicly for their unique inheritance so they wouldn’t have to endure endless speculation, negative spin to things

consideration for Judah’s ability

decision regarding Simeon’s inheritance not for their benefit alone – God had Judah’s future well in view, acted to make life easier

God intended nothing to interfere with his big plan for Judah w/respect to both people and place – his plan for Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Mary & Joseph

God knew e.g. Philistines would make trouble enough without added issues from having too much land to take care of

lesson in right acting

since reason is given, too much for Judah, hint-hint, Simeonites should be thinking cooperatively – expected to help Judah

this an attitude about-face compared to their history – putting needs of neighbors ahead of own desires and advantage

God’s plan made it easy for them to do right thing toward each other (stay out of trouble) and toward neighbors (be good ones)

C. Joshua’s portion  v.49-51

an individual inheritance

had already for Caleb, now is Joshua’s turn to have homestead designated for him – this the last task that needed large-scale supervision

rest of process to occupy and subdue the land would take many more years, much to be done to root out smaller pockets of resistance, remove Canaanites

remaining threat from original occupiers of land reason why Joshua “built up the city”, iow, fortified it so would be place of safety

directed by God

this really the nature of all assignments of land – counted on God’s direction by use of lot to accomplish according to God’s purpose

specifically w/regard to Caleb and Joshua, God had somewhat to say long prior when spies made report to the people

Josh 14:6, 9 Then the children of Judah came to Joshua in Gilgal. And Caleb the son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite said to him: “You know the word which the LORD said to Moses the man of God concerning you and me in Kadesh Barnea. …So Moses swore on that day, saying, ‘Surely the land where your foot has trodden shall be your inheritance and your children’s forever, because you have wholly followed the LORD my God.’

blessing for obedience

long-delayed, yes, but still a particular blessing promised by God – Caleb understood promise as applying to both of them

they had both started well and finished well – stayed faithful to God and his purpose until their part of task was completed

God not careless when he hands out tasks and responsibilities. Sometimes we get carried away and assume things for ourselves that rightfully belong to another person or another time. God’s distribution always has in view everything necessary for successful completion. He may give what at first appears to be way too much, then shortly provides helpers and gives some of responsibility to them. He may give right-sized portion to us from the beginning. Either way, he stands ready to supply resources as needed… not often early… but never late.

And when it comes to blessings / rewards, God never overlooks them either. Don’t have to always wait for heaven to receive them, either. The best ones come then but are often good ones that come our way in this life. Whether is concern of daily life, our eternal salvation, anything in between, God is eternally faithful. He can be trusted with anything in any circumstance. Never overlooks any detail, never messes up and has to do it over. Always gets it perfect first time every time. He may even give us less so we can enjoy it more, use it more effectively for his glory. Have big book that helps us understand that, plus have personal experience that adds to what Bible tells us. Trust him, seek his help always, know that his grace is always sufficient for your need.

 

You Mean Now?

Joshua 18:1-10 

Even for all fascination with new and shiny, fresh and exciting, most people are most comfortable with same-old. Familiar tasks, routines, furniture, people. Move to new place, priority is getting as much of old familiar unpacked so it feels like old place, can relax. Remember no one except Caleb and Joshua had history as adults in Egypt. Vast majority had been born on the road, lived on the road, seemed ready to settle down with least amount of effort possible. Sound familiar??

Some really good things had taken place, another one identified in our text, setting up God’s tent. But… other things not as they should have been. Especially so when is a large task with many details, many find it easiest to put it off. Often do so b/c are overwhelmed/intimidated by size of task, complexity of it, struggle with breaking down into manageable pieces. Don’t know for sure where to begin… so they don’t. Is where it was for more than half of the tribes – still not settled in place God intended for them.

Truth is, nearly every Christian faced with similar circumstance sometime during life, can also be problem for not just individual but the whole group… like for Hebrew children. Church families can be overwhelmed and become satisfied with status quo even when there is a task to be done. This situation with the Hebrew children good example of how to approach similar challenges positively.

A. a good thing – worship center  v.1

togetherness

not told if they used gathering as opportunity for celebration but certainly would have fit – talk about big family reunion, with few exceptions everyone related somehow

came together for good purpose, everyone wanted to be involved even if hands-on tasks were assigned to only one tribe

“permanent” place

Shiloh going to be tabernacle home for many years, long enough to need maintenance and would seem some “upgrades” – doorposts & doors during time of Samuel

to have place of worship fixed to single location a new thing for Israelites, added to sense of belonging and notion of “home”

Dresden – Brown Academy, St. John’s Episcopal Church, then stable home

seemed to be disconnect there: setting up stable home for God in community important to people – stable home in hearts not so important… sound familiar?

B. not a good thing – unfinished business  v.2

subdued but…

had made good progress in much of Canaan – military threat basically neutralized, large portions under direct control of Israelites

assignments had been made for 5 tribes, had actually begun permanent settlement and development, supported by own “possessions”, living off “their own” land

at same time, seven tribes still living unsheltered on their inheritance – certainly not a huge priority for the five w/o some encouragement

God-given task incomplete

assignment was to subdue the whole land north to south, east to west including eliminating Canaanite presence from w/i borders

no question about what God expected them to do, no real question about availability of strength and resources to make it happen

something else missing – at best, an absence of commitment to obedience followed by appropriate action – might have professed intention but inadequate follow-thru

and… nothing said about encouragement from other tribes to finish the task, no offers of help, were happy where they were

C. an even worse thing – bad attitudes  v.3

intentional neglect

one side of coin is what is not done, is bad enough – other side what is done actively, worse when wrong thing done on purpose

were intentionally not acting to obey God – neglecting duty, procrastinating, putting off till another day and filling time w/other things

like many they misidentified the question – not if they had the time, was how they would use it; same for all else needed for task

delayed blessing

God had promised them all kinds of good things not only for when they were done but also in the doing of what he commanded… and they had experienced it already

their failure to act meant God was not going to bless them… in their disobedience – he would hold off until such time as they acted

D. a better thing – obedience… finally  v.8

an insightful leader

if they truly didn’t know where to begin, all they had to do was ask for help… if they needed help determining steps to the goal, asking Joshua good place to begin

and a good thing to remember: no shame in asking for help, often is best thing to do especially from wise leader w/experience

instead they forced Joshua’s hand, making necessary for him to confront them about poor attitude and give step-by-step instructions to get ball rolling

notice Joshua didn’t give them an entire game plan – he only covered up to next milestone, enough to parcel land out

a proper response

appears that was what they needed to get moving again, clarity on manageable pieces with more detailed instructions

did as Joshua instructed without discussion or delay, simply got up and went to survey remaining land, drawing map w/seven regions – yes, delayed, but still movement in obedience to God

E. the best thing – submission to God  v.10

God directed the lot

Joshua said he would and he did – men knew before they left how final decisions on their survey would be made – by God

regions mapped out using natural boundaries easy to find and follow and maintain – which region to which tribe was God’s call

often a point in every project with multiple steps when God needs to make direction clear – can count on God to be attentive to need

people accepted the outcome

by each tribe choosing their representatives and sending them out, showed confidence – that men would do job well and God would make final choice well

were committing to follow results as they came from God through Joshua and the priest, would not argue or complain about it

were also strongly implying commitment to keep going – once land was divided up, they would actually keep moving to the goal

Are tasks facing Christ’s church today that require resources beyond what we possess. Yet same God is ruling his creation, defending and supplying his people as in Joshua’s day. Our task to press toward the goal of seeing Christ’s kingdom fully established here on earth. Can depend on him to supply everything we need – at same time, must do our part to get up and move. Be his ambassadors, be purposeful in encouraging others to be part of his kingdom, seek help from godly leaders, trust him in all things.

Stop Whining

Joshua 17:1-18

At this point in the narrative, author goes back to events before crossing Jordan about 5 years previous to give full context. Like any dynamic situation with lots of people and action, several things were happening that needed their own sequence. A number of issues centered on Manasseh’s tribe and their interaction with one another and neighbors. One in particular had longer history, came up during Moses’ time and received special attention from God himself.

Is significant in our day given widespread confusion over issues of gender, feminism, sexism, as well as often poor understanding of what Bible really teaches about women. Add to that misinformation about what Islam teaches about the place and rights of women in Muslim society, also Muslim claims that Islam was first religion to give women rights of inheritance, e.g.

Keep in mind this is the Bible, not fairy tale. Hebrew children did not walk across Red Sea and Jordan River on dry ground only to live happily ever after. Just like there were troubles in first paradise, Eden, conflict reared its head even before dust settled from determining land distribution. Satan not in hurry, could afford to sow seeds of unrest and then wait for them to grow, develop… know from later history is exactly what happened. In contrast to blessed people who often didn’t act like it see faithful God patiently moving his plan forward. Sadly great many of Hebrew children way more concerned with what they wanted from God than what God wanted from them.

A. a man of war  v.1-4

good choice for the task

for the moment, go back to situation as they approached Jordan – two tribes saw what they thought was suitable place to settle

were granted permission and territory with conditions – many of Manasseh’s tribe thought sounded pretty good, asked for same

response: sure, same conditions, go take what you need up north – required strong men fit for battle and with initiative/energy

result: brave adventurous men of Manasseh’s tribe carved out large territory: “And the children of Machir the son of Manasseh went to Gilead and took it, and dispossessed the Amorites who were in it.” Num. 32:39 

sounds fair – according to families

may have had the same “dad” Manasseh, boy did they turn out different – breaking up family usually not good but this time….

still half a tribe needed a place to settle… given to them w/i Canaan and apportioned according to needs/size of each family subunit

does seem Manasseh made out pretty well even though Ephraim knowingly given preference at time of Jacob’s blessing

it gets complicated

inheritance passed patrilineally, from father to son – Zelophehad had no sons, only daughters, what does that mean for future?

situation like this not covered specifically or clear principle by law – Moses! you gotta figure something out!… and he said, Lord…

by God’s decree Z’s inheritance/portion to be distributed among daughters – no one to be left out b/c of unclear rules (Num. 27:1-10; 36:1-9)

God had it covered

daughters made sure to remind Eleazar the priest and Joshua – don’t leave us out, remember what God told Moses about this

might think no big deal, they marry, they have share in husband’s inheritance… obviously God didn’t think that way

kind of scenario where today people fall thru the cracks, end up being treated poorly – not how it works in God’s plan, all cracks covered, no one falls through… ever

B. boys and girls  v.5-11

5 for the sons, 5 for the daughters

easy to assume to equal shares but not told explicitly – could have been gauged according to family size and need

either way, if God really was directing whole process, can be certain was parceled out in way that satisfied God’s requirements

enough detail is given so are certain God’s instructions were obeyed re: Z’s daughters and… no one either burdened or cheated

protection for the future

uncles fussed to Moses, what if they marry outside the family, what about the land then? won’t that make mixed up mess?

God said, they can choose… w/i boundaries – dealing with exceptional situation not intended to make things more complicated for everyone else

only permitted to marry within the tribe – that way during Jubilee year when debts were canceled, property would stay w/i Manasseh’s tribal inheritance

shared responsibility

was this the way God chose to compensate for lack of leadership ability among significant portion of Manasseh’s descendants?

enough territory to meet their needs in God’s view, not so much responsibility they wouldn’t be able to handle properly

reminded again a number from Ephraim living intermingled with neighbors in Manasseh, responsible for cities and immediate surroundings

C. yet not enough  v.12-18

problems increase

no record of any complaints from East Manasseh – were able to subdue territory granted to them so as to make it their own

different story from West Manasseh – begins with test of wills that ended up being no contest: Canaanites more determined to stay than Manasseh to drive them out

went along with Israelite neighbors, convinced compromise just as acceptable – just show ’em who is boss, they’ll be ok

size vs. character (great)

thought of themselves as “a great people” – yes, does primarily mean great in number… and if size means influence/importance, maybe they had a point

at same time, between East and West Manasseh had been granted massive amount of land… and responsibility to do right with it

given their attitude toward the “locals”, seems they had far higher estimation of themselves than was rightly warranted

entitlement mindset

“God has blessed us, how come you haven’t? We deserve it.” – unlike brothers in East Manasseh, didn’t show any initiative… figured standing there with hand out should be enough

were lazy enough Joshua’s in-your-face challenge didn’t get a rise out of them… just expected more to come their way

if for no other reason their status entitled them to whatever they thought necessary, probably with little or no effort from them

response

Joshua not buying it… and rightly so – if you really are “a great people” like you say, if you really are entitled, then go take it

not end of discussion, pushback (aka whining) from Joseph’s children: they’re big and bad and mean and we can’t do that

probably didn’t think he needed to actually say the rest: if God really has blessed you so greatly, stop whining, trust God, go get the job done… he’ll bless you and give you success in that, too

Not only Joseph’s children like this, people including Christians in all times and places can get caught up in this kind of thinking. Taking God’s blessings for granted and expecting more, complaining when doesn’t seem to be enough, wanting better benefits without any investment, focused on excuses why it has to be that way. Wise and godly leader didn’t buy the arguments, didn’t give in to complaining and whining.

Instead encouraged God’s people to focus on God and his instructions, trust him and do as he says w/o arguing and making excuses. No matter how small our resources look and how great obstacles appear, absolutely nothing can frustrate God and his purpose. He has all wisdom and power, uses on behalf of his kids, will equip and empower us to do his will, accomplish some amazing things by his grace.

 

Faithfulness Rewarded

Joshua 16:1-10 

Plugged in to the middle of account detailing how land apportioned to tribe of Judah, names and general locations of significant cities, is account of Caleb who was “fully devoted” to God entire life. Next page has much different story – ends with Judah, continues with Ephraim. Told that Judah’s descendants did not succeed in clearing out Canaanite residents of Jerusalem, rather lived side-by-side with them in a place with divided loyalties. Jebusites managed to maintain control until time of David, then gradually absorbed into Israelite population. Then comes as less of surprise to read of similar issue at Gezer with Ephraimites.

Are informed next distribution of inheritance was to “children of Joseph”, further identified as Manasseh and Ephraim. Was reason for being done this way… based on family history. When thinking about that particular history, want to scratch your head in disbelief – why would God choose this kind of family to be at center of his plan of redemption? The twelve brothers didn’t fall into sin by accident, they walked right up to it with eyes open, shook hands, away they went.

Two streams of activity feeding into this scene: one is result of Reuben’s behavior, the other has direct bearing on Joseph and his circumstances. Know from Genesis 35 Reuben probably from impatience and desire for advancement defiled Jacob’s maid, Bilhah, mother of Dan and Naphtali. Told in 1 Chron 5:1-2 consequences of this act of incest were far-reaching for Reuben and descendants: his birthright, the extra portion reserved for firstborn, instead given to sons of Joseph. Why them? Why did Jacob adopt Manasseh and Ephraim as sons (Gen. 48:3-5)? Jacob connects his action to encounter with God at Bethel, he at least believed adopting them something God wanted him to do. Perhaps God’s way of honoring Joseph for faithfulness during years in Egypt.

All took place more than 400 years prior shortly before Jacob’s death in Egypt. Here we are, at crucial time in Jewish history, deciding who would live where for next 1000 years. More important, how would it all turn out for Joseph’s sons? Would promise made centuries before be remembered and kept? If was really promise made by God through Jacob, answer an obvious “yes”. God’s faithfulness to remember and act should never be in question. Faithfulness of his people another topic altogether.

A. division  v.1-4

order of tribal assignments

determined by lot – “the lot fell” – might have appeared random to observer but Joshua and rest depending on God to direct result according to his purpose

“The portion of the land divided by Joshua has been computed at twenty-five million acres. Dividing this by 600,000, the probable number of families at the time of the settlement, we get forty-two acres as the average size of each property.” Blaikie 

especially with land as fertile as Canaan supposed to be, would be adequate for each family but not so much as to be a burden – exc. for Joshua and Caleb, everyone else < 65, majority < 45

same for location

not told why for either order or location of inheritance assignments – don’t even know how land was apportioned or exactly who did it

can be confident took place with God’s ultimate approval, quite likely his direction – how he did it isn’t told to us

do know God has lots of ways to accomplish his purpose precisely – he can be counted on to use method he knows is best

East and West Manasseh

started with Reuben and Gad – had lots of livestock, saw Transjordan ideally suited for their needs and already in their control, asked for that to be their portion (Num. 32:1-5)

displeased Moses, believed would discourage the rest – they offered compromise: help militarily until all conquered, Moses declared they would forfeit land they didn’t

many from Manasseh thought a good idea, got the same deal, they went further north and conquered more land for themselves

remaining land inheritance to west within Israel proper designated for Joseph’s children: remaining half of Manasseh’s tribe plus Ephraim

B. subdivision  v.5-9

further divided between brothers

similar size to allotment to Judah in addition to Transjordan portion – certainly in keeping with firstborn’s birthright (second portion) being given to Joseph’s sons

area along southern border of Manasseh “carved out” for Ephraim – with two brothers given land, count back up to 12 since Levi had no land inheritance

permeable border

wasn’t with this portion nor any of the others, borders between inheritances did not have same significance that territorial boundaries often do today

God intended it to be one nation under his authority and rules, properly managed by representatives from each of the tribes

responsibility for this large area both distinguished and shared between descendants of Ephraim and Manasseh – separate cities

nephews yet brothers

example of God showing recognition of personal relationships – ten of named tribes natural sons of Jacob/Israel, two adopted

could have caused friction between brothers, had happened before, to have Manasseh and Ephraim given equal status to them

Jacob forestalled that by officially adopting them as sons: “your two sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, are mine; as Reuben and Simeon, they shall be mine”

to be considered just as legitimate heirs as oldest sons of his first wife – don’t even think about cheating them!, treating as less privileged b/c nephews by birth

same way in God’s family – no tiers in family tree, “one God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.” (Eph. 4:6)

C. no division  v.10

preview of future issues

wording slightly different from Judah/Jerusalem: “children of Judah could not drive them out” vs. Ephraimites “did not drive out the Canaanites”

Judahites did not have the power/ability to drive out Jebusites – Ephraimites did not have will/desire to try and drive them out

either didn’t recognize or didn’t care about risk such close proximity to God’s enemies posed first for them, then entire nation

not only Reuben’s “extra” blessing given to Joseph’s sons, responsibility to show better leadership / character theirs also

Pharaoh would do the job

God sometimes moves unbelievers to do task for “personal” reasons that God’s people should have done out of love for him

at same time was mixed blessing – Pharaoh purified Gezer so he could give as dowry for his daughter, Solomon’s wife (1 Kings 9:16)

Solomon continued trend Ephraim started – idol-worship may have been removed from Gezer, yet Solomon tolerated at home

one of several – Judges 1:27ff

starting w/Judah, Judges lists 6 more including Manasseh and Ephraim – total of 7 out of 12 tribes that failed to fully obey God

was throughout like Ephraim and Judah, mixture of lack of will/desire and lack of ability/strength that allowed Canaanites to stay

isn’t lack of ability not their fault? weren’t 10 spies, majority of people right? weren’t Canaanites truly stronger than Israelites?

yes, they surely were… but… Canaanites were not stronger than God – that was piece left out, obeying while trusting

Faithfulness rewarded only in one direction… from God to Joseph’s sons. Was not reciprocated as it should have been. Had more than sufficient examples of what faith in God, obedience to him would accomplish. Chose instead way of own choosing… to their ultimate defeat. Was their failure to thoroughly root out idol-worship that resulted in captivity and eventual diaspora. Started with mindset, minimizing risk, thinking didn’t need to go as far from temptation and sin as God said.

Here’s the thing – God never leads us into situation where we will be at risk… so long as we trust him and not own wits/strength. And… never leads partway, leaving child to figure out the rest – he’s right there leading all the way home. His way is always the way of greatest blessing. And if we keep our eyes on Jesus, not the giants, won’t be overcome or lose our way.

 

A Generous Father

Joshua 15:1-63

Next to God himself, leading character in this part of Bible would be Joshua. His name titles the book, he is who God speaks to and through, recognized as leader of God’s people and one God used to begin process of making Canaan suitable home for Hebrew children. Yet for brief period spotlight shifts to Joshua’s silent supporter, one who stood with Joshua for half his life. Caleb not only gets our attention, God paid him attention too… and compliments…  and made important promise to Caleb.

Are three basic sections in chapter 15: description of real estate granted to Judah with boundaries, vignette about Caleb and family, then listing of towns and villages within Judah’s boundaries. As with names of people, list like this shows God overseeing all this not absentee CEO relying on subordinates to get job done. God fully informed of all details of how land would be assigned, exact boundaries, names and addresses of new residents. Gives assurance to ones involved as well as readers: all this took place in God’s view and according to his purpose. Events described in Joshua far more than movement of people groups to satisfy social, economic or political goals like history books describe.

NOTE: some names of 100 towns ones we recognize, have an idea where they are. Many others lost in shadows of history, names changed from ones of Canaanite origin to Hebrew names with significance to new residents. Whether we can find names on map or not, makes clear that this not some kind of mythological story manufactured to support Jewish claims to their homeland. Real places in real time of human history with connections to what went before and what would come after. Another indication God involved in lives of his people continuously, not only at random moments.

A. promise kept  v.13

made 40 years earlier – Num. 14:24; Deut 1:34-36

when spies gave report after return from Canaan, Caleb went against flow, spoke confidently / encouragingly, God took notice

is clear from details here in Joshua that God’s assessment was valid and enduring – Caleb’s “different spirit” remained with him

was evident by Caleb’s faithfulness in following God fully – never backed away from commitment, didn’t avoid doing hard thing

“the land where he went”

possible if not likely each of original spies had region assigned to them – might have studied map before entering land to be familiar with at least basic features

promise God made was for Caleb’s inheritance to be exact place where he had been before, territory known to him already

enabled Caleb to have idea of plan for conquest before he started, would make his success more likely and reduce casualties

belonging to the Anakim

these the fellows that scared off other spies and whole people – descendants of Anak, referred to as giants… big/mean/scary

if related tradition true, powerful “family” with strong connections to underworld – could/would have even more powerful allies

significant that God gave that piece of land to only Hebrew singled out as having “followed God fully” – would need to be one like that to take on powerful spiritual enemies

B. action taken  v.14-15

Caleb started

did exactly as had encouraged fellow Hebrews to do years earlier – met force with force (Jdg 1:10), killing family leaders

didn’t waste time with negotiations, followed pattern established by God at beginning – show no mercy to God’s enemies

not ready to quit

threat from Anakim no less then than 45 years before – Caleb could have pushed for someone else to lead the charge… after all he was getting really old

had will to follow words: might be 85 years old, still as strong as ever and ready to complete task God had given to him

realized his limits

at same time, didn’t think would be shirking to have some help – besides, could be useful opportunity for additional reasons, too

understood just because he could see all that needed doing didn’t mean he had to do it all by himself – trusting God often means trusting others for help

also wise enough to know best place for him not always out in front – others needed to take some responsibility, they needed hands-on experience, following Caleb’s instructions and learning how to lead

C. family planning  v.16-17

city needs capturing

for sake of obedience to God’s command and safety of family Kirjath Sepher needed to be purified of idol-worshiping residents

Caleb also spiritually astute enough by now to recognize risks of having Canaanite neighbors, not only for himself but all of Judah

one to do that would need courage and wits since residents weren’t inclined to leave on their own – would have to be forced out

daughter needs husband

promise God made broad enough that included Caleb’s descendants – had a daughter… single… no mention of grandkids

this good father wanted good son-in-law for his daughter, one with courage and leadership ability, carry on “tradition” of fully following God as Caleb had done

doesn’t seem like Othniel asked permission, just went and did task of clearing out Kirjath Sepher, then went to claim his reward

good plan, good character  (Jdg. 3:9)

Caleb’s plan a good one, properly addressed the need, happy ending for the young people – now prospects for future generation

when story continues in next generation, one God raised up to deliver people from enemies and act as judge for 40 years

D. further blessing  v.18-19

benefit to Othniel and Achsah

good husband-wife relationship going there, listened to Achsah’s suggestion for piece of property to secure their future

then Achsah had her own turn – Caleb granted Othniel’s request for land, then added to it when Achsah asked for water supply

also Caleb’s grandchildren

upper and lower springs ensured lasting productivity of land, enabled them to support not only themselves but future additions to family

Caleb freely gave to others… generously – could assume he thought “giving away” daughter was actually gift/expression of thanksgiving to God – reward to Othniel for pushing God’s plan forward

including his example

Caleb not only lived well and was commended by God for it, is every indication he finished well – committed to God and others-minded

if length of faithful and effective service any indication, Caleb and his example was good influence on Othniel in role as judge

Sounds just like God, doesn’t it? Faithful from beginning to end. Fully committed to doing what is right. Giving others opportunity to demonstrate their commitment, grow their skills / abilities / faith. Then generously reward faithful behavior, going above and beyond minimum requirements.

Notice those “rewards” came in different ways. First one: objective identified and reward promised for meeting it. No pressure, volunteer(s) expected, payment on completion. Second one: response to request for a blessing. God deals with his children same way. Objectives given to us in Bible, also what we can expect in return. And… God hears prayers, requests for blessing, answers generously. Maybe not exactly the way we expect, but always what is best. And… blessings from Heavenly Father always generous.