Joshua 17:15

Joshua answered them, "If you have so many people that the hill country of Ephraim is too small for you, go to the forest and clear for yourself an area in the land of the Perizzites and the Rephaim."

Study Bible

If you have so many people
This phrase begins with Joshua addressing the tribe of Joseph, which includes the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh. The context here is a response to their complaint about the insufficiency of their allotted land. The Hebrew word for "people" is "am," which often refers to a group bound by common ancestry or covenant. Historically, the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh were indeed numerous and powerful, reflecting the fulfillment of Jacob's blessing in Genesis 48:19. This phrase challenges them to consider their own strength and resources.

Joshua replied
Joshua, the leader of Israel after Moses, is speaking. His role as a leader is not just to distribute land but to encourage the tribes to take initiative. The Hebrew root of "replied" is "anah," which can mean to answer or respond, often with authority or insight. Joshua's response is not just a simple answer but a directive that carries the weight of his leadership and God's authority.

go up into the forest
The directive to "go up" suggests action and initiative. The Hebrew word "alah" means to ascend or climb, often used in the context of moving towards something greater or more challenging. The "forest" refers to the wooded hill country of Ephraim, which was part of their inheritance but required effort to clear and settle. This reflects a spiritual principle of taking possession of God's promises through faith and effort.

and clear land for yourselves
The phrase "clear land" involves the Hebrew word "bara," which means to create or make something new. This is a call to transform the potential of the land into a productive inheritance. Spiritually, it suggests the work of sanctification, where believers are called to actively participate in God's promises by removing obstacles and cultivating their spiritual lives.

there in the land of the Perizzites and Rephaim
The Perizzites and Rephaim were inhabitants of Canaan, representing the challenges and opposition the Israelites faced. The Perizzites were known as rural dwellers, while the Rephaim were considered giants, symbolizing formidable obstacles. Historically, this reflects the ongoing struggle of the Israelites to fully possess the land God promised them, a theme that resonates with the Christian journey of overcoming spiritual battles.

since the hill country of Ephraim is too small for you
The "hill country of Ephraim" refers to the central mountainous region of Canaan, which was part of the inheritance of the tribe of Joseph. The phrase "too small" highlights the tension between God's promise and the current reality. The Hebrew word "tsar" can mean narrow or restricted, suggesting that God's people are called to expand and grow beyond their current limitations. This is an encouragement to trust in God's provision and to step out in faith to claim the fullness of His promises.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The leader of Israel after Moses, tasked with leading the Israelites into the Promised Land and distributing the land among the tribes.

2. Tribe of Joseph
Refers to the descendants of Joseph, specifically the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh, who were given a portion of the Promised Land.

3. Perizzites and Rephaim
Inhabitants of the land that the Israelites were to conquer. The Perizzites were a Canaanite tribe, while the Rephaim were a group of ancient people known for their size and strength.

4. Hill Country of Ephraim
A region allocated to the tribe of Ephraim, part of the inheritance given to the descendants of Joseph.

5. Forest Land
The area suggested by Joshua for the tribe of Joseph to clear and settle, indicating the need for effort and initiative in claiming their inheritance.

Teaching Points

Initiative and Responsibility
Joshua's response to the tribe of Joseph highlights the importance of taking initiative and responsibility in fulfilling God's promises. We are called to actively participate in God's plans for our lives.

Overcoming Obstacles
The need to clear the forest land symbolizes overcoming obstacles. Believers are encouraged to face challenges with faith and determination, trusting in God's provision.

Contentment and Gratitude
The tribe's complaint about their land allocation serves as a reminder to be content and grateful for God's blessings, while also being willing to work for further growth.

Faith in Action
The directive to clear the land emphasizes that faith requires action. Believers must be willing to put in effort and labor to see God's promises come to fruition.

Community and Cooperation
The task of clearing the land would require cooperation among the tribe members, illustrating the importance of unity and working together in the body of Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joshua's response to the tribe of Joseph challenge us to take initiative in our own spiritual lives?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of overcoming obstacles in our personal walk with God?

3. How can we balance contentment with our current blessings while striving for growth and expansion in our faith journey?

4. What are some practical ways we can demonstrate faith in action in our daily lives?

5. How can we foster a spirit of cooperation and unity within our church or community to achieve common goals?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 48-49
The blessings of Jacob to his sons, including Joseph, which set the stage for the inheritance of the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh.

Deuteronomy 20:19-20
Instructions on how to treat trees during a siege, which can relate to the clearing of the forest land for settlement.

Judges 1:27-29
The failure of the tribes, including Manasseh, to fully drive out the Canaanites, which connects to the challenges faced in claiming their inheritance.