Joshua 11:20

For it was of the LORD to harden their hearts to engage Israel in battle, so that they would be set apart for destruction and would receive no mercy, being annihilated as the LORD had commanded Moses.

Study Bible

For it was of the LORD
This phrase emphasizes the divine sovereignty and purpose behind the events described. The Hebrew word for "LORD" here is "Yahweh," the covenant name of God, which signifies His eternal presence and faithfulness. This underscores that the unfolding events are not random but are orchestrated by God Himself, aligning with His divine plan and promises to Israel. It reflects the biblical theme that God is actively involved in the affairs of nations and individuals, guiding history according to His will.

to harden their hearts
The concept of God hardening hearts is a profound theological theme found throughout Scripture. The Hebrew word used here is "chazaq," which means to strengthen or make firm. In the biblical context, it implies that God allows individuals to persist in their chosen path of rebellion, solidifying their resistance to His will. This hardening is both a judgment and a means to fulfill His purposes, as seen in the case of Pharaoh in Exodus. It serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of persistent disobedience and the seriousness of divine judgment.

to engage Israel in battle
This phrase indicates the purpose behind the hardening of hearts: to bring about a confrontation with Israel. The historical context here is the conquest of Canaan, where God had commanded Israel to take possession of the land. The battles were not merely military campaigns but were seen as acts of divine judgment against the Canaanite nations for their wickedness. This engagement in battle was part of God's plan to establish Israel in the Promised Land, fulfilling His covenant promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

so that they would be completely destroyed
The phrase "completely destroyed" translates the Hebrew term "cherem," which refers to something devoted to destruction as an offering to God. This concept is central to the conquest narrative, where certain cities and peoples were to be utterly destroyed as an act of divine judgment. It reflects the holiness and justice of God, who cannot tolerate sin and idolatry. This destruction was not arbitrary but was a response to the moral corruption and abominations practiced by the Canaanites, as detailed in Leviticus and Deuteronomy.

without mercy
The absence of mercy in this context highlights the severity of God's judgment. The Hebrew word "lo" (not) combined with "racham" (mercy) underscores the totality of the judgment decreed by God. This phrase serves as a stark reminder of the holiness of God and the seriousness of sin. While God is merciful and compassionate, there comes a point where persistent rebellion leads to judgment. It also foreshadows the ultimate judgment that will come upon the world, urging believers to live in obedience and reverence.

as the LORD had commanded Moses
This final phrase ties the events back to the commands given to Moses, reinforcing the continuity of God's plan from the Exodus to the conquest of Canaan. The reference to Moses, the great lawgiver and leader, underscores the authority and legitimacy of Joshua's actions. It highlights the faithfulness of God in fulfilling His promises and the importance of obedience to His commands. This continuity assures believers of God's unchanging nature and His commitment to His covenant people throughout history.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The sovereign God of Israel, who orchestrates events according to His divine will and purpose.

2. Joshua
The leader of Israel, succeeding Moses, tasked with leading the Israelites into the Promised Land and executing God's commands.

3. The Canaanite Kings
The collective adversaries of Israel, whose hearts were hardened by God to engage in battle against Israel.

4. Israel
The chosen people of God, led by Joshua, who are executing God's judgment on the Canaanite nations.

5. Moses
The former leader of Israel, who received God's commandments regarding the conquest of Canaan.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Justice
God's actions, including the hardening of hearts, are rooted in His sovereign will and perfect justice. Believers are called to trust in His divine plan, even when it is beyond human comprehension.

The Seriousness of Sin
The complete destruction of the Canaanites serves as a sobering reminder of the seriousness of sin and God's intolerance of idolatry and wickedness. Christians are encouraged to examine their lives and remove anything that leads them away from God.

Obedience to God's Commands
Joshua's leadership and Israel's obedience to God's commands highlight the importance of following God's instructions fully. Believers are challenged to live in obedience to God's Word, trusting in His guidance.

The Role of Faith in God's Plan
The Israelites' victory over the Canaanites was not due to their own strength but because of God's intervention. This teaches Christians to rely on faith in God's power rather than their own abilities.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding God's sovereignty in hardening hearts affect your view of His justice and mercy?

2. In what ways can the account of the Canaanites' destruction serve as a warning against sin and idolatry in your own life?

3. How can Joshua's obedience to God's commands inspire you to follow God's Word more closely in your daily life?

4. What are some areas in your life where you need to rely more on faith in God's power rather than your own strength?

5. How do the connections to other scriptures, such as Romans 9:18 and Proverbs 21:1, deepen your understanding of God's control over human affairs?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 4:21 and Romans 9:18
These passages discuss God's sovereignty in hardening hearts, as seen in Pharaoh's account and Paul's explanation of God's mercy and judgment.

Deuteronomy 20:16-18
Provides the command given to Moses regarding the destruction of the Canaanite nations, emphasizing the need to eliminate idolatry and sin.

Proverbs 21:1
Illustrates God's control over the hearts of kings, reinforcing His sovereignty over human affairs.

Isaiah 55:8-9
Highlights God's thoughts and ways being higher than human understanding, relevant to understanding His actions in Joshua 11:20.