Joshua

Lesson 10Joshua Chapters 11-21

In this lesson, we begin the conclusion of our study of Joshua with the final taking of the land and the battles and divisions of it. In all that we have studied thus far, and will study in this lesson, we see that Joshua’s walk with God has grown stronger and deeper, and that because of their dependence on God, the people of Israel have prospered and been victorious in mighty ways.

In battles recounted in this lesson, we will see that not only do Joshua’s forces face mountainous terrain and a variety of alliances arrayed against them, but also awesome weapons of war. These conflicts include battles in which the enemy comes with iron chariots, and yet even these are no match for God.

Bible

Have you ever been overwhelmed by a challenge, perhaps even had the enemy come at you with "iron chariots"? As we will observe, God’s leadership and sovereign protection of us will guarantee us the victory, if we are willing to completely follow him.

Our study will cover Joshua Chapters 11 through 21. Survey these chapters and consider the following:

  1. What overall activity does Joshua Chapters 11 and 12 describe?
  2. By the time we reach Joshua Chapter 13, how long have God’s Chosen People been in the Promised Land? How long had they fought in order to be able to occupy it? (see Josh. 11:18, Josh. 13:1, and Josh. 14:6-12)
  3. Summarize what happens in Chapter 13. How is this different from what happens in Chapters 14 through 21?
  4. After long years of battle, probably five or more, what does God tell Joshua in Joshua 13:1? List the two specific things that he says to Joshua.
  5. How does this compare with Caleb and his demands in Joshua 14:6-12?
  6. What was the name of the city, within the land that Caleb captured, that Caleb settled in? What else is this city famous for in Biblical times, as well as in today’s events? (see Josh. 14:15)
  7. Read Chapter 20. What was the purpose of establishing these cities? Why were they needed?
  8. Although much remained to be done, up to this point in time, how successful had Joshua and his army been? Read Joshua 21:43-45 and list the ways in which we can tell whether they had succeeded from these verses.
  9. After reading Joshua 21:43-45, do we have a sense that God had brought a complete and total victory into their new lives?

So, as we begin to conclude our study of Joshua, we see a people who were transformed from 400 years of slavery into a single united federation of 12 tribes. In the course of five years, they have successfully and completely occupied a new land, which is now devoid of enemies, terror, and fear; and they are now in need of nothing. Truly God brought them to a land flowing with milk and honey. What a victory!

Surely "Who can be against us, if God be for us?" and "Greater is He that is in you, than he who is in the world" are verses that readily come to mind when we see the power of God in their lives.

I pray that God will also give you great victory, protection, and peace as together we study His Holy Word.

Have a great week everyone.

Yours in Christ,

Wes

[2003]