Joshua 17:18

because the hill country will be yours as well. It is a forest; clear it, and its farthest limits will be yours. Although the Canaanites have iron chariots and although they are strong, you can drive them out."

Study Bible

because the hill country will be yours as well
The phrase "hill country" refers to the elevated regions of the land of Canaan, which were often seen as challenging to inhabit due to their rugged terrain. In the Hebrew context, the term for "hill country" (Hebrew: "har") signifies a place of strength and strategic advantage. Historically, these areas were significant for defense and agriculture. The promise that it "will be yours" underscores God's assurance of victory and possession, emphasizing divine providence and the fulfillment of His promises to the Israelites.

It is a forest; clear it
The description "It is a forest" indicates that the land was densely wooded, requiring effort to make it suitable for settlement and agriculture. The Hebrew word for "forest" (Hebrew: "ya'ar") suggests a wild, untamed area. The command to "clear it" implies human responsibility and initiative in claiming God's promises. This reflects a spiritual principle that while God provides, His people must actively participate in His plans, symbolizing the cooperation between divine sovereignty and human agency.

and its farthest limits will be yours
The phrase "farthest limits" speaks to the extent of the territory that the Israelites were to claim. In the Hebrew context, this suggests a comprehensive possession, leaving no part of the promise unclaimed. It highlights the abundance of God's provision and the vastness of His blessings. Historically, this would have been an encouragement to the Israelites to fully trust in God's promise and to not settle for less than what He had ordained for them.

Although the Canaanites have iron chariots and are strong
The mention of "iron chariots" signifies the advanced military technology of the Canaanites, which would have been intimidating to the Israelites. In the ancient Near East, iron chariots were a symbol of military might and superiority. The acknowledgment that the Canaanites "are strong" serves to highlight the formidable challenge before the Israelites. However, this also sets the stage for demonstrating God's power, as His strength is made perfect in human weakness, encouraging believers to trust in divine power over human strength.

you can drive them out
The assurance "you can drive them out" is a declaration of victory despite the apparent odds. The Hebrew verb used here (Hebrew: "yarash") implies not just driving out but also taking possession. This is a call to action, encouraging the Israelites to step out in faith and obedience. It serves as a reminder that with God's help, no obstacle is insurmountable. This phrase inspires believers to confront their own "Canaanites"—the challenges and strongholds in their lives—trusting in God's promise of victory.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Tribe of Joseph
This includes the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh, descendants of Joseph, who were given a significant portion of the land due to their size and importance.

3. Canaanites
The inhabitants of the land before the Israelites, known for their fortified cities and iron chariots, representing a formidable challenge to the Israelites.

4. Hill Country
The region allocated to the tribe of Joseph, characterized by its forested areas that required clearing for settlement and cultivation.

5. Iron Chariots
Symbolic of the military strength and technological advantage of the Canaanites, posing a significant threat to the Israelites.

Teaching Points

Faith Overcomes Obstacles
Just as the Israelites were called to trust God to overcome the Canaanites' iron chariots, believers today are encouraged to rely on faith to conquer seemingly insurmountable challenges.

Active Participation in God's Promises
The Israelites were required to clear the forest and drive out the Canaanites, illustrating that while God promises victory, it often requires our active involvement and effort.

God's Strength in Our Weakness
The presence of iron chariots highlights human weakness, but God's assurance of victory demonstrates His strength working through our limitations.

Courage in the Face of Fear
The command to drive out the Canaanites despite their strength teaches us to face our fears with courage, trusting in God's power and promises.

Inheritance Requires Stewardship
The land was given to the tribe of Joseph, but they had to clear and cultivate it, reminding us that our spiritual inheritance requires diligent stewardship and cultivation.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the command to clear the forest and drive out the Canaanites apply to the spiritual battles we face today?

2. In what ways can we actively participate in God's promises in our lives, similar to the Israelites clearing the land?

3. How can the presence of "iron chariots" in our lives serve as an opportunity to demonstrate faith and reliance on God?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to cultivate and steward the spiritual inheritance God has given us?

5. How can the assurance of God's presence, as seen in Joshua 17:18, encourage us to face our fears and challenges with confidence?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 20:1
This verse encourages the Israelites not to fear their enemies, even if they have horses and chariots, because the Lord is with them. This connects to Joshua 17:18 by reinforcing the idea that God's presence ensures victory despite formidable opposition.

Judges 1:19
This passage describes the challenges faced by the tribe of Judah in driving out the inhabitants of the plains because they had iron chariots, highlighting the ongoing struggle against technologically superior foes.

Philippians 4:13
This New Testament verse emphasizes the strength believers have through Christ, paralleling the confidence Joshua instills in the Israelites to overcome their challenges.