Joshua 17:17

So Joshua said to the house of Joseph--to Ephraim and Manasseh--"You have many people and great strength. You shall not have just one allotment,

Study Bible

So Joshua said
The phrase begins with Joshua, the leader of Israel after Moses, speaking directly to the tribes. Joshua, whose name means "Yahweh is salvation," is a central figure in the conquest of Canaan. His leadership is divinely appointed, and his words carry the authority of God’s command. This context emphasizes the importance of his message to the tribes of Joseph.

to the house of Joseph
The "house of Joseph" refers to the descendants of Joseph, one of the twelve sons of Jacob. Joseph's sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, received a double portion of inheritance, which is significant in the context of Israel's tribal allotments. This reflects Joseph's favored status and the fulfillment of Jacob's blessing in Genesis 48.

to Ephraim and Manasseh
Ephraim and Manasseh are the two sons of Joseph, and they are often mentioned together as the tribes that descended from him. Ephraim, the younger, was given precedence over Manasseh by Jacob's blessing, which is a recurring theme in the biblical narrative of the younger being favored over the elder. This highlights the divine sovereignty in the distribution of blessings and inheritance.

You have many people
This phrase acknowledges the numerical strength of the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh. In the context of ancient Israel, population size was directly related to military and economic power. The census in Numbers 26 shows that these tribes were indeed numerous, which justified their need for a larger territory.

and great strength
The "great strength" refers not only to their numbers but also to their capability and potential as a powerful force within Israel. This strength is both a blessing and a responsibility, as they are expected to use it to fulfill God’s purposes in the land of Canaan. It also implies that they have the ability to conquer and settle additional territories.

You shall not have just one allotment
This statement is a promise and a directive. It assures the tribes of Joseph that their inheritance will be expanded beyond a single portion of land. This reflects God’s provision and faithfulness in meeting the needs of His people. It also challenges them to take initiative and trust in God's promise as they expand their territory.

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. House of Joseph
Refers to the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh, the sons of Joseph, who were given a significant inheritance in the Promised Land.

3. Ephraim and Manasseh
The two tribes that descended from Joseph, each receiving a portion of land. They were known for their size and strength.

4. Allotment of Land
The division of the Promised Land among the tribes of Israel, a significant event in the history of Israel as it fulfilled God's promise to Abraham.

5. Promised Land
The land of Canaan, promised by God to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness in Fulfillment of Promises
The allocation of land to Ephraim and Manasseh is a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to the patriarchs.

Recognizing and Utilizing God-Given Strengths
Joshua acknowledges the strength and numbers of Ephraim and Manasseh, encouraging them to use their God-given resources effectively.

The Importance of Unity and Cooperation
The tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh are reminded of their shared heritage and the need to work together to fully possess their inheritance.

Trusting in God's Provision
Despite challenges, the tribes are encouraged to trust in God's provision and step out in faith to claim what has been promised to them.

Stewardship of God's Gifts
The passage highlights the responsibility of stewarding the resources and blessings God has given, using them for His glory and the benefit of the community.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the promise of land to Ephraim and Manasseh reflect God's faithfulness to His promises? Can you think of other instances in the Bible where God fulfilled His promises?

2. In what ways can we recognize and utilize the strengths and resources God has given us in our personal lives and communities?

3. How can the unity and cooperation between Ephraim and Manasseh serve as a model for relationships within the church today?

4. What are some practical ways we can trust in God's provision when facing challenges or uncertainties in our lives?

5. How can we be good stewards of the gifts and blessings God has given us, ensuring they are used for His purposes and the benefit of others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 48
Jacob's blessing of Ephraim and Manasseh, where he adopts them as his own sons, giving them a special inheritance.

Numbers 26
The census of the tribes of Israel, highlighting the large numbers of Ephraim and Manasseh, which supports their need for more land.

Deuteronomy 33
Moses' blessing on the tribes, including a specific blessing for Joseph's descendants, emphasizing their strength and prosperity.

1 Chronicles 5
The genealogies and territories of the tribes, including Ephraim and Manasseh, providing historical context for their inheritance.