March 3, 2025
Where is Jesus in Joshua?
Joshua 1-5
Maddy Alvis
Big Book Idea
God's instruction is given intentionally and leads to flourishing.
Key Verse | Joshua 2:18
"Behold, when we come into the land, you shall tie this scarlet cord in the window through which you let us down, and you shall gather into your house your father and mother, your brothers, and all your father's household."
Joshua 1-5
Chapter 1
God Commissions Joshua
1 After the death of Moses the servant of the LORD, the LORD said to Joshua the son of Nun, Moses' assistant, 2 “Moses my servant is dead. Now therefore arise, go over this Jordan, you and all this people, into the land that I am giving to them, to the people of Israel. 3 Every place that the sole of your foot will tread upon I have given to you, just as I promised to Moses. 4 From the wilderness and this Lebanon as far as the great river, the river Euphrates, all the land of the Hittites to the Great Sea toward the going down of the sun shall be your territory. 5 No man shall be able to stand before you all the days of your life. Just as I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not leave you or forsake you. 6 Be strong and courageous, for you shall cause this people to inherit the land that I swore to their fathers to give them. 7 Only be strong and very courageous, being careful to do according to all the law that Moses my servant commanded you. Do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may have good success 1 1:7 Or may act wisely wherever you go. 8 This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success. 9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”
Joshua Assumes Command
10 And Joshua commanded the officers of the people, 11 “Pass through the midst of the camp and command the people, ‘Prepare your provisions, for within three days you are to pass over this Jordan to go in to take possession of the land that the LORD your God is giving you to possess.’”
12 And to the Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh Joshua said, 13 “Remember the word that Moses the servant of the LORD commanded you, saying, ‘The LORD your God is providing you a place of rest and will give you this land.’ 14 Your wives, your little ones, and your livestock shall remain in the land that Moses gave you beyond the Jordan, but all the men of valor among you shall pass over armed before your brothers and shall help them, 15 until the LORD gives rest to your brothers as he has to you, and they also take possession of the land that the LORD your God is giving them. Then you shall return to the land of your possession and shall possess it, the land that Moses the servant of the LORD gave you beyond the Jordan toward the sunrise.”
16 And they answered Joshua, “All that you have commanded us we will do, and wherever you send us we will go. 17 Just as we obeyed Moses in all things, so we will obey you. Only may the LORD your God be with you, as he was with Moses! 18 Whoever rebels against your commandment and disobeys your words, whatever you command him, shall be put to death. Only be strong and courageous.”
Chapter 2
Rahab Hides the Spies
1 And Joshua the son of Nun sent 2 2:1 Or had sent two men secretly from Shittim as spies, saying, “Go, view the land, especially Jericho.” And they went and came into the house of a prostitute whose name was Rahab and lodged there. 2 And it was told to the king of Jericho, “Behold, men of Israel have come here tonight to search out the land.” 3 Then the king of Jericho sent to Rahab, saying, “Bring out the men who have come to you, who entered your house, for they have come to search out all the land.” 4 But the woman had taken the two men and hidden them. And she said, “True, the men came to me, but I did not know where they were from. 5 And when the gate was about to be closed at dark, the men went out. I do not know where the men went. Pursue them quickly, for you will overtake them.” 6 But she had brought them up to the roof and hid them with the stalks of flax that she had laid in order on the roof. 7 So the men pursued after them on the way to the Jordan as far as the fords. And the gate was shut as soon as the pursuers had gone out.
8 Before the men 3 2:8 Hebrew they lay down, she came up to them on the roof 9 and said to the men, “I know that the LORD has given you the land, and that the fear of you has fallen upon us, and that all the inhabitants of the land melt away before you. 10 For we have heard how the LORD dried up the water of the Red Sea before you when you came out of Egypt, and what you did to the two kings of the Amorites who were beyond the Jordan, to Sihon and Og, whom you devoted to destruction. 4 2:10 That is, set apart (devoted) as an offering to the Lord (for destruction) 11 And as soon as we heard it, our hearts melted, and there was no spirit left in any man because of you, for the LORD your God, he is God in the heavens above and on the earth beneath. 12 Now then, please swear to me by the LORD that, as I have dealt kindly with you, you also will deal kindly with my father's house, and give me a sure sign 13 that you will save alive my father and mother, my brothers and sisters, and all who belong to them, and deliver our lives from death.” 14 And the men said to her, “Our life for yours even to death! If you do not tell this business of ours, then when the LORD gives us the land we will deal kindly and faithfully with you.”
15 Then she let them down by a rope through the window, for her house was built into the city wall, so that she lived in the wall. 16 And she said 5 2:16 Or had said to them, “Go into the hills, or the pursuers will encounter you, and hide there three days until the pursuers have returned. Then afterward you may go your way.” 17 The men said to her, “We will be guiltless with respect to this oath of yours that you have made us swear. 18 Behold, when we come into the land, you shall tie this scarlet cord in the window through which you let us down, and you shall gather into your house your father and mother, your brothers, and all your father's household. 19 Then if anyone goes out of the doors of your house into the street, his blood shall be on his own head, and we shall be guiltless. But if a hand is laid on anyone who is with you in the house, his blood shall be on our head. 20 But if you tell this business of ours, then we shall be guiltless with respect to your oath that you have made us swear.” 21 And she said, “According to your words, so be it.” Then she sent them away, and they departed. And she tied the scarlet cord in the window.
22 They departed and went into the hills and remained there three days until the pursuers returned, and the pursuers searched all along the way and found nothing. 23 Then the two men returned. They came down from the hills and passed over and came to Joshua the son of Nun, and they told him all that had happened to them. 24 And they said to Joshua, “Truly the LORD has given all the land into our hands. And also, all the inhabitants of the land melt away because of us.”
Chapter 3
Israel Crosses the Jordan
1 Then Joshua rose early in the morning and they set out from Shittim. And they came to the Jordan, he and all the people of Israel, and lodged there before they passed over. 2 At the end of three days the officers went through the camp 3 and commanded the people, “As soon as you see the ark of the covenant of the LORD your God being carried by the Levitical priests, then you shall set out from your place and follow it. 4 Yet there shall be a distance between you and it, about 2,000 cubits 6 3:4 A cubit was about 18 inches or 45 centimeters in length. Do not come near it, in order that you may know the way you shall go, for you have not passed this way before.” 5 Then Joshua said to the people, “Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the LORD will do wonders among you.” 6 And Joshua said to the priests, “Take up the ark of the covenant and pass on before the people.” So they took up the ark of the covenant and went before the people.
7 The LORD said to Joshua, “Today I will begin to exalt you in the sight of all Israel, that they may know that, as I was with Moses, so I will be with you. 8 And as for you, command the priests who bear the ark of the covenant, ‘When you come to the brink of the waters of the Jordan, you shall stand still in the Jordan.’” 9 And Joshua said to the people of Israel, “Come here and listen to the words of the LORD your God.” 10 And Joshua said, “Here is how you shall know that the living God is among you and that he will without fail drive out from before you the Canaanites, the Hittites, the Hivites, the Perizzites, the Girgashites, the Amorites, and the Jebusites. 11 Behold, the ark of the covenant of the Lord of all the earth 7 3:11 Hebrew the ark of the covenant, the Lord of all the earth is passing over before you into the Jordan. 12 Now therefore take twelve men from the tribes of Israel, from each tribe a man. 13 And when the soles of the feet of the priests bearing the ark of the LORD, the Lord of all the earth, shall rest in the waters of the Jordan, the waters of the Jordan shall be cut off from flowing, and the waters coming down from above shall stand in one heap.”
14 So when the people set out from their tents to pass over the Jordan with the priests bearing the ark of the covenant before the people, 15 and as soon as those bearing the ark had come as far as the Jordan, and the feet of the priests bearing the ark were dipped in the brink of the water (now the Jordan overflows all its banks throughout the time of harvest), 16 the waters coming down from above stood and rose up in a heap very far away, at Adam, the city that is beside Zarethan, and those flowing down toward the Sea of the Arabah, the Salt Sea, were completely cut off. And the people passed over opposite Jericho. 17 Now the priests bearing the ark of the covenant of the LORD stood firmly on dry ground in the midst of the Jordan, and all Israel was passing over on dry ground until all the nation finished passing over the Jordan.
Chapter 4
Twelve Memorial Stones from the Jordan
1 When all the nation had finished passing over the Jordan, the LORD said to Joshua, 2 “Take twelve men from the people, from each tribe a man, 3 and command them, saying, ‘Take twelve stones from here out of the midst of the Jordan, from the very place where the priests' feet stood firmly, and bring them over with you and lay them down in the place where you lodge tonight.’” 4 Then Joshua called the twelve men from the people of Israel, whom he had appointed, a man from each tribe. 5 And Joshua said to them, “Pass on before the ark of the LORD your God into the midst of the Jordan, and take up each of you a stone upon his shoulder, according to the number of the tribes of the people of Israel, 6 that this may be a sign among you. When your children ask in time to come, ‘What do those stones mean to you?’ 7 then you shall tell them that the waters of the Jordan were cut off before the ark of the covenant of the LORD. When it passed over the Jordan, the waters of the Jordan were cut off. So these stones shall be to the people of Israel a memorial forever.”
8 And the people of Israel did just as Joshua commanded and took up twelve stones out of the midst of the Jordan, according to the number of the tribes of the people of Israel, just as the LORD told Joshua. And they carried them over with them to the place where they lodged and laid them down 8 4:8 Or to rest there. 9 And Joshua set up 9 4:9 Or Joshua had set up twelve stones in the midst of the Jordan, in the place where the feet of the priests bearing the ark of the covenant had stood; and they are there to this day. 10 For the priests bearing the ark stood in the midst of the Jordan until everything was finished that the LORD commanded Joshua to tell the people, according to all that Moses had commanded Joshua.
The people passed over in haste. 11 And when all the people had finished passing over, the ark of the LORD and the priests passed over before the people. 12 The sons of Reuben and the sons of Gad and the half-tribe of Manasseh passed over armed before the people of Israel, as Moses had told them. 13 About 40,000 ready for war passed over before the LORD for battle, to the plains of Jericho. 14 On that day the LORD exalted Joshua in the sight of all Israel, and they stood in awe of him just as they had stood in awe of Moses, all the days of his life.
15 And the LORD said to Joshua, 16 “Command the priests bearing the ark of the testimony to come up out of the Jordan.” 17 So Joshua commanded the priests, “Come up out of the Jordan.” 18 And when the priests bearing the ark of the covenant of the LORD came up from the midst of the Jordan, and the soles of the priests' feet were lifted up on dry ground, the waters of the Jordan returned to their place and overflowed all its banks, as before.
19 The people came up out of the Jordan on the tenth day of the first month, and they encamped at Gilgal on the east border of Jericho. 20 And those twelve stones, which they took out of the Jordan, Joshua set up at Gilgal. 21 And he said to the people of Israel, “When your children ask their fathers in times to come, ‘What do these stones mean?’ 22 then you shall let your children know, ‘Israel passed over this Jordan on dry ground.’ 23 For the LORD your God dried up the waters of the Jordan for you until you passed over, as the LORD your God did to the Red Sea, which he dried up for us until we passed over, 24 so that all the peoples of the earth may know that the hand of the LORD is mighty, that you may fear the LORD your God forever.” 10 4:24 Or all the days
Chapter 5
The New Generation Circumcised
1 As soon as all the kings of the Amorites who were beyond the Jordan to the west, and all the kings of the Canaanites who were by the sea, heard that the LORD had dried up the waters of the Jordan for the people of Israel until they had crossed over, their hearts melted and there was no longer any spirit in them because of the people of Israel.
2 At that time the LORD said to Joshua, “Make flint knives and circumcise the sons of Israel a second time.” 3 So Joshua made flint knives and circumcised the sons of Israel at Gibeath-haaraloth. 11 5:3 Gibeath-haaraloth means the hill of the foreskins 4 And this is the reason why Joshua circumcised them: all the males of the people who came out of Egypt, all the men of war, had died in the wilderness on the way after they had come out of Egypt. 5 Though all the people who came out had been circumcised, yet all the people who were born on the way in the wilderness after they had come out of Egypt had not been circumcised. 6 For the people of Israel walked forty years in the wilderness, until all the nation, the men of war who came out of Egypt, perished, because they did not obey the voice of the LORD; the LORD swore to them that he would not let them see the land that the LORD had sworn to their fathers to give to us, a land flowing with milk and honey. 7 So it was their children, whom he raised up in their place, that Joshua circumcised. For they were uncircumcised, because they had not been circumcised on the way.
8 When the circumcising of the whole nation was finished, they remained in their places in the camp until they were healed. 9 And the LORD said to Joshua, “Today I have rolled away the reproach of Egypt from you.” And so the name of that place is called Gilgal 12 5:9 Gilgal sounds like the Hebrew for to roll to this day.
First Passover in Canaan
10 While the people of Israel were encamped at Gilgal, they kept the Passover on the fourteenth day of the month in the evening on the plains of Jericho. 11 And the day after the Passover, on that very day, they ate of the produce of the land, unleavened cakes and parched grain. 12 And the manna ceased the day after they ate of the produce of the land. And there was no longer manna for the people of Israel, but they ate of the fruit of the land of Canaan that year.
The Commander of the LORD's Army
13 When Joshua was by Jericho, he lifted up his eyes and looked, and behold, a man was standing before him with his drawn sword in his hand. And Joshua went to him and said to him, “Are you for us, or for our adversaries?” 14 And he said, “No; but I am the commander of the army of the LORD. Now I have come.” And Joshua fell on his face to the earth and worshiped 13 5:14 Or and paid homage and said to him, “What does my lord say to his servant?” 15 And the commander of the LORD's army said to Joshua, “Take off your sandals from your feet, for the place where you are standing is holy.” And Joshua did so.
Footnotes
[1] 1:7 Or may act wisely[2] 2:1 Or had sent
[3] 2:8 Hebrew they
[4] 2:10 That is, set apart (devoted) as an offering to the Lord (for destruction)
[5] 2:16 Or had said
[6] 3:4 A cubit was about 18 inches or 45 centimeters
[7] 3:11 Hebrew the ark of the covenant, the Lord of all the earth
[8] 4:8 Or to rest
[9] 4:9 Or Joshua had set up
[10] 4:24 Or all the days
[11] 5:3 Gibeath-haaraloth means the hill of the foreskins
[12] 5:9 Gilgal sounds like the Hebrew for to roll
[13] 5:14 Or and paid homage
Table of Contents
Introduction to Joshua
Timeline
Author and Date
While this book mentions Joshua writing (8:32; 24:26), it does not claim he wrote the book. The repeated references to something existing “to this day” (see 4:9; 5:9; 6:25; etc.) seem to suggest that there was a significant lapse of time between the events recorded in the book and the time when the writing of the book was completed. The final writing may have taken place in the time of the exile (post-587 B.C.), but the writing probably began much earlier.
Theme
Joshua records part two of God’s grandest work of redemption in the OT period. In part one (the Pentateuch), the Lord redeemed his people out of slavery in Egypt and formalized his covenantal love for them at Sinai. Moses led the people during that time. Now in part two, under the leadership of Joshua, the Lord brings his people into the Land of Promise and gives them rest.
Purpose and Background
The book of Joshua seeks to explain God’s purpose in the events surrounding Israel’s capture of and settlement in Canaan. Those events are seen as the fulfillment of God’s promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Such an account would have been relevant to ancient Israel from its earliest arrival in Canaan, and to every generation of God’s people to the present day.
Joshua comes immediately after the Pentateuch and in many ways completes its story. The theme of the first five books of the Bible is the progressive fulfillment of the “patriarchal promise,” made first to Abraham (Gen. 12:1–3) and repeated to his son Isaac (Gen. 26:2–4) and his grandson Jacob (Gen. 28:13–15; etc.). The Lord promised Abraham and his descendants that they would be blessed and would become a blessing to others, that they would grow to become a great nation, and that they would be given a land of their own—and that these blessings would be enjoyed within a close covenant relationship with God.
By the end of the Pentateuch, Israel has been brought into a covenant relationship with the Lord and has become a great people. But they remain outside the Land of Promise, on the plains of Moab. Forty years before, the Lord had chosen Moses to lead his people out of slavery in Egypt and to bring them to the land he had promised (Ex. 3:6–8; 6:2–8). Now, after so many years of wandering, Joshua, the “new Moses” (Josh. 1:1–9), is to lead God’s people into the land, take it, and divide it among them as their inheritance from the Lord.
Key Themes
- The Lord’s continuing presence as the key to strength and courage (e.g., 1:5, 9).
- The importance of the Lord’s instructions for succeeding in one’s mission and acting with wisdom (1:7–8).
- The ability of the Lord to save the “outsider” (Rahab), and the danger of the “insider” falling away (Achan; see chs. 2 and 7).
- The Lord as divine Warrior and the reality of judgment (e.g., 10:42; 11:19–20).
- The danger of failing to ask the Lord (e.g., 9:14).
- The Lord as Protector of the covenant (e.g., 10:1–15, especially v. 11).
- The unity of the people of God (18:1–10; 22:34).
- The sovereignty of God in giving his people a place and rest (1:13; 11:23; 21:43–45).
- The faithfulness of God in fulfilling all his good promises (1:2; 21:43–45).
- The necessity of removing false gods and worshiping God alone (ch. 24).
Outline
- Crossing into the Land (1:1–5:15)
- Taking the Land (6:1–12:24)
- Dividing the Land (13:1–21:45)
- Serving the Lord in the Land (22:1–24:33)
The Setting of Joshua
c. 1406 B.C.
The book of Joshua recounts Israel’s conquest of the land of Canaan under Joshua’s command. The book opens with Joshua being commissioned by the Lord as the leader of the Israelites. It tells of his victories over the Canaanite kings and how he allotted the land of Canaan among the tribes of Israel. The book ends with Joshua encouraging the people to remain faithful to the Lord.
Fact: How did the people of Israel consecrate themselves?
How did the people of Israel consecrate themselves? The people of Israel were often instructed to consecrate themselves in preparation to meet with God. Sanctifying, or “separating” oneself included washing one’s clothes and temporarily abstaining from sexual relations (3:5; Ex. 19:14–15).
Fact: Double walls
Double walls. Like several other ancient cities, Jericho was most likely protected by a double wall. Poorer citizens of the city often built their homes between the inner and outer walls.
Fact: The Jordan River
The Jordan River. In Hebrew, Jordan means “descending” or “downward.” From Galilee to the Dead Sea the river drops 600 feet (185 m) in 65 miles (105 km). The spring rains and snowmelt from Mount Hermon in the north flood the river, causing it to overflow its banks (3:15).
Fact: Circumcision
Circumcision was widely practiced in the ancient Near East, though not by every people group. In Egypt, it was considered a rite of passage. For the people of Israel, however, it was a sign of the nation’s covenant with God. Flint or obsidian knives were generally used to perform circumcision.
The Setting of Joshua
c. 1406 B.C.
The book of Joshua recounts Israel’s conquest of the land of Canaan under Joshua’s command. The book opens with Joshua being commissioned by the Lord as the leader of the Israelites. It tells of his victories over the Canaanite kings and how he allotted the land of Canaan among the tribes of Israel. The book ends with Joshua encouraging the people to remain faithful to the Lord.
The Hebrew Calendar
The Hebrew calendar was composed of 12 lunar months, each of which began when the thin crescent moon was first visible at sunset. They were composed of approximately 29/30 days and were built around the agricultural seasons. Apparently some of the names of the months were changed after the time of Israel’s exile in Babylon (e.g., the first month of Abib changed to Nisan; for dates of the exile, see p. 31). The months of the Hebrew calendar (left column) are compared to the corresponding months of the modern (Gregorian) calendar shown in the center column. Biblical references (in the third column) indicate references to the Hebrew calendar cited in the Bible.
*Periodically, a 13th month was added so that the lunar calendar would account for the entire solar year.
Joshua 1:1–9 as a “Table of Contents” for the Rest of the Book
| “Table of Contents” Item: | Corresponds To: |
|---|---|
| “arise, go over this Jordan . . . into the land that I am giving . . . to the people of Israel” (1:2–5) | Israel conquers Canaan (1:10–12:24) |
| “you shall cause this people to inherit the land” (1:6) | Israel’s inheritance distributed (chs. 13–21) |
| “be strong and very courageous, being careful to do according to all the law . . .” (1:7–9) | Covenant renewal (chs. 22–24) |
Seven Stone Memorials in the Land
| 4:20 | Gilgal | a reminder of God’s faithfulness in bringing Israel safely across the Jordan into the Promised Land |
| 7:26 | over Achan | a reminder of Israel’s potential for unfaithfulness and of the dire consequences that result |
| 8:28–29 | over the king of Ai | a monument to Israel’s second chance and restoration |
| 8:30–32 | Joshua engraves a copy of the law | a reminder of Israel’s duty to live in obedience to the divine “Torah,” or “instruction” |
| 10:27 | over Amorite kings at Gibeon | a reminder of God’s gracious action in defending Israel’s covenant with a Canaanite city |
| 22:34 | peace in the land of Gilead | a witness to the unity of the Transjordanian tribes with Israel west of the Jordan |
| 24:26–27 | covenant renewal at Shechem | a reminder of Israel’s duty to serve the Lord, who fulfilled every promise in bringing them into the land |
Historical Books Timeline
| 1406 [or 1220] B.C. | Moses’ death; Israel’s entry into Canaan under Joshua |
| 1375 [or 1210] | Joshua’s death |
| 1375–1055 [or 1210–1050/42/30] | Period of the judges |
| 1050/42/30–1010 | Saul’s reign |
| 1010–971 | David’s reign |
| 971–931 | Solomon’s reign |
| 931–722 | Divided kingdom (Israel)—19 kings |
| 722 | Destruction of Samaria (Israel’s capital) by Assyria; Israel’s resettlement |
| 931–586 | Divided kingdom (Judah)—19 kings, 1 queen |
| 586 | Destruction of Jerusalem and temple by Babylon; Judah exiled to Babylon |
| 586–538 | Judah’s exile in Babylon |
| 561 | Release of King Jehoiachin from prison in Babylon |
| 539 | Cyrus II of Persia captures Babylon |
| 538 | First return of Jews to Jerusalem under Jeshua and Zerubbabel |
| 516 | Temple rebuilding completed |
| 478 | Esther and Mordecai rise in the Persian court |
| 458 | Ezra’s return to Jerusalem from Babylon |
| 445 | Nehemiah’s return to Jerusalem from Babylon |
| 445–??? | Walls of Jerusalem rebuilt |
| 433 | Nehemiah’s visit to Babylon and return to Jerusalem |
Rahab
Rahab was a Gentile prostitute who lived in Jericho. When Joshua sent two spies to gather information about the city, she hid the men from the king. She also deceived the men who came looking for the spies. She convinced them to leave the city in pursuit of the spies, who were actually hidden on her roof. She demonstrated a remarkable awareness of Israel’s history and of the Lord’s intention to give Israel the land of Canaan. In response to her kindness, Joshua spared Rahab and her household when Israel destroyed Jericho. Rahab was Boaz’s mother and is one of four women listed in the genealogy of Jesus. She is commended in the NT for her faith and for her good works. (Joshua 2:10–11)
Joshua
Joshua was a spiritual and military leader of Israel. He accompanied Moses part of the way up Mount Sinai and also assisted him at the tent of meeting. He was one of the 12 spies sent to explore the land of Canaan. Upon their return, most of the spies said it would be impossible to conquer the land, but Joshua and Caleb encouraged the people to trust the Lord for victory. Because of their obedience and faith, Joshua and Caleb were the only two men of their generation allowed to enter Canaan. The Lord appointed Joshua to lead Israel into the Promised Land. He was also put in charge of dividing the land among the tribes. (Numbers 27:18–23)
Josh. 1:1 After the death of Moses links the book of Joshua to the preceding “five books of Moses” (the Pentateuch), the last of which ends with Moses’ death (Deuteronomy 34). Similarly, the book of Joshua will end and the book of Judges will begin with references to Joshua’s death (Josh. 24:29; Judg. 1:1; 2:8). These notices link the books together and show that the Lord continues to deal with his people Israel through key leaders. That Joshua, the son of Nun, was an Ephraimite is clear from Num. 13:8, but little else is known of his father, Nun. Joshua himself is mentioned some 30 times in the Pentateuch, three times under his original name Hoshea (“salvation”) and the remainder as Joshua (“Yahweh saves”), the name Moses gave him (Num. 13:16). His first appearance is as a military commander, fighting the Amalekites shortly after Israel’s exodus from Egypt (Ex. 17:8–13). As Moses’ assistant, Joshua accompanied him at least partway up Mount Sinai (Ex. 24:13; 32:17). He also assisted Moses at the tent of meeting, where the Lord would “speak to Moses face to face” (Ex. 33:11). Joshua was among the 12 men sent to explore the land of Canaan (Num. 13:8). He joined Caleb in encouraging the people to trust God for victory (Num. 14:6–9). Because of this act of faith, he and Caleb were the only ones from their generation allowed to enter the Promised Land. Near the time of Moses’ death, when Moses requested that a new leader be appointed, the Lord instructed him to choose Joshua (Num. 27:18–19). Joshua was to lead Israel into the Promised Land (Deut. 1:38; 3:28; 31:23) and divide it among the tribes (Num. 34:17).
Josh. 1:2 the land that I am giving to them. The promise first given to Abraham (Gen. 12:1–3) included three key elements: family (Abraham’s descendants would become a great nation); blessing (Abraham’s descendants would enjoy the blessings of covenant relationship with the Lord and would in turn be a blessing to the nations); and land (Gen. 12:1, 5–7; 15:18). The dominant theme of the book of Joshua is the Lord’s faithfulness in fulfilling all his “good promises” (Josh. 21:45), especially the promise of land (1:6; 21:43).
Josh. 1:4 This description recalls Num. 34:1–12, where the Lord provides Moses more detailed boundaries of the land Israel will have in Canaan (see also Gen. 10:19; 15:18; Num. 13:17–22; Deut. 1:7).
Josh. 1:5–9 Be strong and courageous (see Deut. 31:6–8, 23). Joshua will need strength and courage to accept his task (you shall cause this people to inherit the land); to obey the Torah (Book of the Law); and to resist being terrified (do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed).
Josh. 1:12 For Moses’ instructions to the Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh, see Num. 32:6–28.
Josh. 1:13 Like the OT notion of shalom (“peace, well-being”), rest suggests freedom from threat, the enjoyment of one’s inheritance, security within the borders of the land, and a state of all-around well-being.
Josh. 1:14 Only the men were expected to participate in combat (see note on Jer. 50:37).
Joshua
Joshua was a spiritual and military leader of Israel. He accompanied Moses part of the way up Mount Sinai and also assisted him at the tent of meeting. He was one of the 12 spies sent to explore the land of Canaan. Upon their return, most of the spies said it would be impossible to conquer the land, but Joshua and Caleb encouraged the people to trust the Lord for victory. Because of their obedience and faith, Joshua and Caleb were the only two men of their generation allowed to enter Canaan. The Lord appointed Joshua to lead Israel into the Promised Land. He was also put in charge of dividing the land among the tribes. (Numbers 27:18–23)
Josh. 2:1 Shittim was east of the Jordan River, though its exact location is unknown (see Num. 25:1–3). into the house of a prostitute. There is no suggestion of a sexual relationship between the spies and Rahab. Her house most likely was a kind of inn or way station and a logical place to gather information. Although a prostitute, Rahab was saved by God’s mercy. She is remembered as an ancestor of Christ (Matt. 1:5), and for her faith (Heb. 11:31) and good works (James 2:25).
Josh. 2:2 it was told to the king of Jericho. Canaan was made up of various city-states. Each had a central city surrounded by villages and farmland and its own “king.” Many of the cities were walled.
Josh. 2:4 I did not know. The author does not pass judgment on Rahab’s deceptive response (compare note on 1 Sam. 19:14).
Josh. 2:6 Flax is the plant from which linen is made. The flat rooftops of houses were convenient places for drying the stalks.
Josh. 2:10 In Genesis 15 the Lord promised Abraham that his descendants would inherit the land of Canaan after the wickedness of the Amorites was complete. The term “Amorite” describes the inhabitants of Canaan generally, and the inhabitants of the hill country specifically. Sihon and Og. See Numbers 21; Deuteronomy 3.
Josh. 2:11 as soon as we heard . . . our hearts melted. Compare Ex. 15:14–15. On Rahab’s apparent faith, see note on Josh. 2:9.
Rahab
Rahab was a Gentile prostitute who lived in Jericho. When Joshua sent two spies to gather information about the city, she hid the men from the king. She also deceived the men who came looking for the spies. She convinced them to leave the city in pursuit of the spies, who were actually hidden on her roof. She demonstrated a remarkable awareness of Israel’s history and of the Lord’s intention to give Israel the land of Canaan. In response to her kindness, Joshua spared Rahab and her household when Israel destroyed Jericho. Rahab was Boaz’s mother and is one of four women listed in the genealogy of Jesus. She is commended in the NT for her faith and for her good works. (Joshua 2:10–11)
Josh. 2:12–14 we will deal kindly and faithfully with you. The spies’ response reflects the gracious character of Israel’s God. The distinction between Israel and Canaan was not based on race but on loyalty to the Lord. The general instruction to destroy the Canaanites (see Deut. 7:1–2; and note on Josh. 6:17–18) did not apply to people who came to genuine faith in Israel’s God.
Josh. 2:24 The spies’ report echoes what Rahab herself said (v. 9). The good report of the two spies contrasts starkly with the bad report of the 10 spies 40 years earlier (Num. 13:25–33).
Fact: Double walls
Double walls. Like several other ancient cities, Jericho was most likely protected by a double wall. Poorer citizens of the city often built their homes between the inner and outer walls.
Josh. 3:3 On the construction of the ark of the covenant and its significance, see Ex. 25:10–22. It was normally kept in the Most Holy Place of the tabernacle (and later in the temple).
Josh. 3:4 Two thousand cubits is just over half a mile (0.8 km). From that distance, more people would have been able to see the ark and follow its path. The holiness of the ark may also have prompted this safe distance.
Josh. 3:5 Consecrate yourselves. Sanctifying, or “separating,” oneself included washing one’s clothes and temporarily refraining from sexual relations (see Ex. 19:10–15).
Fact: How did the people of Israel consecrate themselves?
How did the people of Israel consecrate themselves? The people of Israel were often instructed to consecrate themselves in preparation to meet with God. Sanctifying, or “separating” oneself included washing one’s clothes and temporarily abstaining from sexual relations (3:5; Ex. 19:14–15).
Josh. 3:10–11 These seven people groups are described in Deut. 7:1 as “seven nations more numerous and mightier than yourselves.” the ark of the covenant of the Lord of all the earth. The literal Hebrew (see ESV footnote) strongly connects the Lord to his ark (see Josh. 3:13) and highlights his presence with his people.
Josh. 3:15 The Jordan overflows all its banks—caused by spring rains and snowmelt from the Mount Hermon region and the Jordan’s headwaters—throughout the time of harvest, that is, the grain harvest of March–April. Normally the Jordan has a 3- to 10-foot (0.9- to 3.0-m) depth and 90- to 100-foot (27- to 31-m) width. It would have been much more difficult to cross with the added water.
Josh. 3:16 Apparently the water was stopped as far upriver as Adam, identified with modern Damiya, east of the Jordan and just south of where the Jordan and the Jabbok River join (about 18 miles [29 km] north of the fords of the Jordan). It is a place where mudslides have occasionally completely blocked the Jordan’s southward flow. the waters coming down from above stood and rose up in a heap. The waters could have been held back by mudslides, or through no visible natural means. Either way the event was miraculous, as it occurred just as the priests stepped into the water (v. 15).
Josh. 3:17 all Israel . . . the nation. In Egypt and in the wilderness, Israel was referred to as a “people.” Now that they have entered the Promised Land, they begin to be called a “nation.”
Fact: The Jordan River
The Jordan River. In Hebrew, Jordan means “descending” or “downward.” From Galilee to the Dead Sea the river drops 600 feet (185 m) in 65 miles (105 km). The spring rains and snowmelt from Mount Hermon in the north flood the river, causing it to overflow its banks (3:15).
Josh. 4:2 twelve men. Each of the 12 tribes is represented, showing the importance of the Jordan crossing for all Israel (see 3:12).
Historical Books Timeline
| 1406 [or 1220] B.C. | Moses’ death; Israel’s entry into Canaan under Joshua |
| 1375 [or 1210] | Joshua’s death |
| 1375–1055 [or 1210–1050/42/30] | Period of the judges |
| 1050/42/30–1010 | Saul’s reign |
| 1010–971 | David’s reign |
| 971–931 | Solomon’s reign |
| 931–722 | Divided kingdom (Israel)—19 kings |
| 722 | Destruction of Samaria (Israel’s capital) by Assyria; Israel’s resettlement |
| 931–586 | Divided kingdom (Judah)—19 kings, 1 queen |
| 586 | Destruction of Jerusalem and temple by Babylon; Judah exiled to Babylon |
| 586–538 | Judah’s exile in Babylon |
| 561 | Release of King Jehoiachin from prison in Babylon |
| 539 | Cyrus II of Persia captures Babylon |
| 538 | First return of Jews to Jerusalem under Jeshua and Zerubbabel |
| 516 | Temple rebuilding completed |
| 478 | Esther and Mordecai rise in the Persian court |
| 458 | Ezra’s return to Jerusalem from Babylon |
| 445 | Nehemiah’s return to Jerusalem from Babylon |
| 445–??? | Walls of Jerusalem rebuilt |
| 433 | Nehemiah’s visit to Babylon and return to Jerusalem |
Josh. 4:9 Joshua set up twelve stones in the midst of the Jordan. It is unclear whether this is a separate group of stones from those set up in Gilgal (vv. 8, 20). The Hebrew text could suggest a second memorial, but the larger context suggests only one set of stones. to this day. The “day” in question is the day either of the author of Joshua or of the historical sources he used (compare 2 Chron. 5:9).
Josh. 4:13 plains of Jericho. The troops passed over a broad plain between Jericho and the Jordan River, some 5 miles (8 km) east of Jericho.
Josh. 4:14 exalted. See 3:7.
The Hebrew Calendar
The Hebrew calendar was composed of 12 lunar months, each of which began when the thin crescent moon was first visible at sunset. They were composed of approximately 29/30 days and were built around the agricultural seasons. Apparently some of the names of the months were changed after the time of Israel’s exile in Babylon (e.g., the first month of Abib changed to Nisan; for dates of the exile, see p. 31). The months of the Hebrew calendar (left column) are compared to the corresponding months of the modern (Gregorian) calendar shown in the center column. Biblical references (in the third column) indicate references to the Hebrew calendar cited in the Bible.
*Periodically, a 13th month was added so that the lunar calendar would account for the entire solar year.
Josh. 4:20 The twelve stones that Joshua set up at Gilgal represent the first of seven stone memorials described in Joshua (see 7:26; 8:28–29; 8:32; 10:27; 22:34; 24:26–27).
Seven Stone Memorials in the Land
| 4:20 | Gilgal | a reminder of God’s faithfulness in bringing Israel safely across the Jordan into the Promised Land |
| 7:26 | over Achan | a reminder of Israel’s potential for unfaithfulness and of the dire consequences that result |
| 8:28–29 | over the king of Ai | a monument to Israel’s second chance and restoration |
| 8:30–32 | Joshua engraves a copy of the law | a reminder of Israel’s duty to live in obedience to the divine “Torah,” or “instruction” |
| 10:27 | over Amorite kings at Gibeon | a reminder of God’s gracious action in defending Israel’s covenant with a Canaanite city |
| 22:34 | peace in the land of Gilead | a witness to the unity of the Transjordanian tribes with Israel west of the Jordan |
| 24:26–27 | covenant renewal at Shechem | a reminder of Israel’s duty to serve the Lord, who fulfilled every promise in bringing them into the land |
Josh. 4:21–23 These stones will help teach future generations to respect and obey the all-powerful God.
Josh. 3:1–4:24 Chapters 3 and 4 form a unit, with the common theme of crossing the Jordan.
Josh. 5:2 Make flint knives . . . circumcise . . . a second time. Circumcision was a reminder of God’s lasting covenant with Israel (Gen. 17:10–14). All males were circumcised when they were eight days old. Flint, or obsidian, was easily available and was particularly well suited for use in circumcisions.
Fact: Circumcision
Circumcision was widely practiced in the ancient Near East, though not by every people group. In Egypt, it was considered a rite of passage. For the people of Israel, however, it was a sign of the nation’s covenant with God. Flint or obsidian knives were generally used to perform circumcision.
Josh. 5:6 Scripture frequently describes Canaan as a land flowing with milk and honey (see Ex. 13:5; Lev. 20:24; Num. 13:27; etc.).
Josh. 5:9 The reproach of Egypt may have been the insults the Egyptians would have made if the Lord had not brought Israel into the Promised Land (Ex. 32:12; Num. 14:13–16; Deut. 9:28). It could also represent the disobedient generation that has now died (see Josh. 5:4–6).
Josh. 5:10 For the background of the Passover, see Exodus 12; on the timing of the Passover, see Ex. 12:18; Lev. 23:5.
Josh. 5:12 manna ceased. See Ex. 16:35. They no longer need the food that God gave them in the desert. They now enjoy the fruit of the land of Canaan.
Josh. 5:13–14 a man was standing before him. Joshua seems to wonder if this man is an Israelite or an enemy soldier. The commander of the army of the LORD answers “No,” that is, “Neither.” Joshua’s reaction to the man shows that Joshua believes this being possesses divine authority. The expression with his drawn sword in his hand appears in Num. 22:23, 31 and 1 Chron. 21:16, where it refers to the angel of the Lord. The “army of the LORD” is the force God commands when judging (Isa. 13:4) or protecting (1 Kings 22:19). worshiped. Joshua possibly believed he was in God’s presence. In Ex. 23:20–33 God promises his angel to guide Israel to victory.
Josh. 1:1–5:15 Crossing into the Land. Leadership of Israel passes from Moses to Joshua, who has been chosen (see Deut. 31:1–8) to lead the people to their inheritance in Canaan, the Land of Promise.
Josh. 5:1–15 A new generation is circumcised to remind them of their privileged covenant relationship with God. The Passover celebration reminds them that God released them from slavery.
Listen to the Podcast
Listen NowDive Deeper | Joshua 1-5
Before I trusted God with every part of my life in college, the instruction I found in the Bible felt so restrictive. It sounded like a bunch of rules that took the fun out of living and all I could see was "don't do this" and "don't do that." I had a warped view of God's instruction because I didn't trust Him. Why would I listen to what He's telling me to do with my life if I don't trust Him with it?
God's instruction without our trust feels like a rule book. It feels like rules from a father we don't believe has our best intentions in mind. Rahab demonstrates for us how to receive instruction with trust in the one who's giving it. In Joshua 2:9-11, Rahab declares her belief and trust in God and His place of authority "in the heavens above and on the earth beneath," trusting in God with her own life. Because of her trust in God, Rahab obeys the Israelites' instruction for her. In verse 21 she ties a scarlet cord in her window, signaling to the Israelites that she and her family are to be spared when they conquer Jericho. God's instruction for Rahab through the Israelites was clear and intentional as He provided a way for her to be saved. His instruction led to life!
God provided a way out of destruction for Rahab, and He does the same for us today. Instead of a scarlet cord, we have the blood of our Savior Jesus Christ that secures our deliverance from destruction and assures our salvation.
Because I chose to trust in God and His authority in my life, I have experienced life to the full. The very "rules" I once rolled my eyes at have protected me from my own destruction. When we trust that God loves us and gives us instruction out of the abundance of that love, we treasure His instruction.
This month's memory verse
But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.”
– 1 Samuel 16:7
Discussion Questions
1. In what areas of your life do God's instructions feel like rules? Bring that to Him and ask that He reveal more of His heart to you.
2. Reflect on 2 Timothy 3:16-17. How do those verses strengthen or challenge how you currently view God's Word?
3. How does Rahab encourage and inspire you to trust God more?