Joshua 23:9

The LORD has driven out great and powerful nations before you, and to this day no one can stand against you.

Study Bible

The LORD has driven out
This phrase emphasizes the divine intervention and sovereignty of God in the conquest of the Promised Land. The Hebrew root for "driven out" is "yarash," which means to dispossess or take possession. This action is not merely a military victory but a fulfillment of God's promise to Israel. Historically, this reflects the period of the Israelite settlement in Canaan, where God's power was evident in the victories over the Canaanite nations. It underscores the belief that it was not by Israel's might but by God's hand that the land was secured.

great and powerful nations
The phrase highlights the formidable nature of the enemies Israel faced. These nations were not insignificant; they were "great" and "powerful," indicating their strength and influence in the region. The Hebrew words "gadol" (great) and "atsum" (powerful) suggest nations with significant military and political power. This context serves to magnify the miracle of Israel's victories, as it was against such formidable foes that God demonstrated His might and faithfulness to His covenant people.

before you
This phrase indicates the personal involvement and experience of the Israelites in witnessing God's actions. The use of "before you" suggests that the Israelites were not passive observers but active participants in God's plan. It also implies a direct and personal relationship between God and His people, where His actions are evident and undeniable in their lives. This personal involvement is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, where God's presence and guidance are continually affirmed.

and to this day
This phrase serves as a reminder of the ongoing faithfulness of God. "To this day" suggests that the effects of God's actions were not temporary but had lasting significance. It reflects the historical reality that, at the time of Joshua's address, the Israelites were still experiencing the benefits of God's victories. This continuity of God's faithfulness is a source of encouragement and a call to remember and trust in God's enduring promises.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
- The leader of Israel after Moses, who led the Israelites into the Promised Land and is delivering his farewell address in this chapter.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
- The covenant God of Israel, who has been faithful in fulfilling His promises to the Israelites by driving out their enemies.

3. Israelites
- The chosen people of God, who have been given the land of Canaan as their inheritance.

4. Canaan
- The Promised Land, which the Israelites are in the process of fully possessing as God drives out the nations before them.

5. Great and Powerful Nations
- The various Canaanite tribes and peoples who occupied the land before the Israelites and were known for their strength and fortifications.

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness
Reflect on how God has been faithful in fulfilling His promises to Israel. Consider how this same faithfulness applies to His promises to us today.

Divine Power Over Human Strength
Recognize that it is God's power, not human ability, that secures victory. Trust in His strength rather than our own.

Covenant Relationship
Understand the importance of maintaining a covenant relationship with God, as Israel's success was tied to their obedience and faithfulness to Him.

Spiritual Warfare
Apply the concept of God driving out enemies to our spiritual battles, trusting that He will help us overcome sin and temptation.

Legacy of Faith
Consider how Joshua's leadership and faithfulness set an example for future generations. Reflect on the legacy of faith we are building for those who come after us.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joshua 23:9 demonstrate God's faithfulness to His promises, and how can we apply this understanding to our own lives?

2. In what ways can we rely on God's power rather than our own strength when facing challenges today?

3. How does the concept of God driving out nations before Israel relate to the spiritual battles we face as Christians?

4. What can we learn from Joshua's leadership and faithfulness that can be applied to our roles in our families, churches, and communities?

5. How do the assurances found in Joshua 23:9 connect with the promises of God's presence and help in the New Testament?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 7:1-2
This passage outlines God's command to Israel to conquer and utterly destroy the nations in Canaan, emphasizing His role in driving them out.

Psalm 44:2-3
The psalmist reflects on how God drove out the nations and planted Israel, attributing their success to God's power, not their own strength.

Romans 8:31
Paul speaks of God being for us, and therefore no one can stand against us, echoing the assurance of God's support seen in Joshua 23:9.

Exodus 23:27-30
God promises to send His terror ahead of Israel to drive out the nations gradually, showing His strategic and sovereign plan.

Hebrews 13:5-6
The assurance of God's presence and help, encouraging believers to be confident and unafraid, similar to the confidence Israel had in God's promises.