◄ Joshua 13 ►
Book Sum People Lessons Que
Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
Lands Yet Unconquered (Judges 1:1–7) 1Now Joshua was old and well along in years, and the LORD said to him, “You are old and well along in years, but very much of the land remains to be possessed. 2This is the land that remains: All the territory of the Philistines and the Geshurites, 3from the Shihor east of Egypt to the territory of Ekron on the north (considered to be Canaanite territory)—that of the five Philistine rulers of Gaza, Ashdod, Ashkelon, Gath, and Ekron, as well as that of the Avvites; 4to the south, all the land of the Canaanites, from Mearaha of the Sidonians to Aphek, as far as the border of the Amorites; 5the land of the Gebalites;b and all Lebanon to the east, from Baal-gad below Mount Hermon to Lebo-hamath. 6All the inhabitants of the hill country from Lebanon to Misrephoth-maim—all the Sidonians—I Myself will drive out before the Israelites. Be sure to divide it by lot as an inheritance to Israel, as I have commanded you. 7Now therefore divide this land as an inheritance to the nine tribes and the half-tribe of Manasseh.” The Inheritance East of the Jordan (Numbers 32:1–42; Deuteronomy 3:12–22) 8The other half of Manasseh, along with the Reubenites and Gadites, had received the inheritance Moses had given them beyond the Jordan to the east, just as Moses the servant of the LORD had assigned to them: 9The area from Aroer on the rim of the Arnon Valley, along with the city in the middle of the valley, the whole plateau of Medeba as far as Dibon, 10and all the cities of Sihon king of the Amorites who reigned in Heshbon, as far as the border of the Ammonites; 11also Gilead and the territory of the Geshurites and Maacathites, all of Mount Hermon, and all Bashan as far as Salecah— 12the whole kingdom of Og in Bashan, who had reigned in Ashtaroth and Edrei and had remained as a remnant of the Rephaim. Moses had struck them down and dispossessed them, 13but the Israelites did not drive out the Geshurites or the Maacathites. So Geshur and Maacath dwell among the Israelites to this day. 14To the tribe of Levi, however, Moses had given no inheritance. The food offerings to the LORD, the God of Israel, are their inheritance, just as He had promised them. Reuben’s Inheritance 15This is what Moses had given to the clans of the tribe of Reuben: 16The territory from Aroer on the rim of the Arnon Valley, along with the city in the middle of the valley, to the whole plateau beyond Medeba, 17to Heshbon and all its cities on the plateau, including Dibon, Bamoth-baal, Beth-baal-meon, 18Jahaz, Kedemoth, Mephaath, 19Kiriathaim, Sibmah, Zereth-shahar on the hill in the valley, 20Beth-peor, the slopes of Pisgah, and Beth-jeshimoth— 21all the cities of the plateau and all the kingdom of Sihon king of the Amorites, who reigned in Heshbon until Moses killed him and the chiefs of Midian (Evi, Rekem, Zur, Hur, and Reba), the princes of Sihon who lived in the land. 22The Israelites also killed the diviner Balaam son of Beor along with the others they put to the sword. 23And the border of the Reubenites was the bank of the Jordan. This was the inheritance of the clans of the Reubenites, including the cities and villages. Gad’s Inheritance 24This is what Moses had given to the clans of the tribe of Gad: 25The territory of Jazer, all the cities of Gilead, and half the land of the Ammonites as far as Aroer, near Rabbah; 26the territory from Heshbon to Ramath-mizpeh and Betonim, and from Mahanaim to the border of Debir;c 27and in the valley, Beth-haram, Beth-nimrah, Succoth, and Zaphon, with the rest of the kingdom of Sihon king of Heshbon (the territory on the east side of the Jordan up to the edge of the Sea of Chinnerethd). 28This was the inheritance of the clans of the Gadites, including the cities and villages. Manasseh’s Eastern Inheritance 29This is what Moses had given to the clans of the half-tribe of Manasseh, that is, to half the tribe of the descendants of Manasseh: 30The territory from Mahanaim through all Bashan—all the kingdom of Og king of Bashan, including all the towns of Jair that are in Bashan, sixty cities; 31half of Gilead; and Ashtaroth and Edrei, the royal cities of Og in Bashan. All this was for the clans of the descendants of Machir son of Manasseh, that is, half of the descendants of Machir. 32These were the portions Moses had given them on the plains of Moab beyond the Jordan, east of Jericho. 33To the tribe of Levi, however, Moses had given no inheritance. The LORD, the God of Israel, is their inheritance, just as He had promised them. Footnotes: 4 a Or Arah 5 b Or the area of Byblos 26 c LXX, Syriac, and Vulgate; Hebrew Li-debir, a variant of Lo-debar; see 2 Samuel 9:4, 2 Samuel 17:27, and Amos 6:13. 27 d That is, the Sea of Galilee Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Joshua 13 Summary The Inheritance East of the Jordan Verses 1–7 – Remaining Land and Command to Divide Joshua, now “advanced in years,” learns from the LORD that large portions of Canaan are still unconquered—coastal Philistine cities, the territory of the Geshurites, Lebanon up to Mount Hermon, and regions of the Sidonians. Yet God directs him to allot the land immediately, promising, “I Myself will drive them out” (v. 6). Joshua is to apportion the inheritance for the nine tribes and the half-tribe of Manasseh west of the Jordan. Verses 8–14 – Inheritance East of the Jordan Revisited The writer recaps that Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh have already received their territory east of the Jordan, granted by Moses. Specific boundaries stretch from Aroer near the Arnon Gorge northward to Mount Hermon. Verse 14 reminds readers that the Levites received no tract of land; “the offerings by fire to the LORD, the God of Israel, are their inheritance.” Verses 15–23 – Portion of Reuben Reuben’s territory spans the plateau around Heshbon and includes cities such as Medeba, Dibon, and Baal-meon. The chapter notes the downfall of Sihon king of the Amorites and records Balaam’s death within this region (v. 22). Verses 24–28 – Portion of Gad Gad’s inheritance runs from Jazer to Gilead and Ramoth-gilead, then east to the border of the Ammonites, and south to the Jordan Valley. It encompasses fortified cities “with their surrounding villages” (v. 28). Verses 29–32 – Portion of Half-Manasseh Half-Manasseh takes northern Gilead, Bashan, and sixty fortified towns ruled earlier by Jair (a Manassite hero). They inherit lands of giants—Og’s former kingdom—stretching to the border of the Geshurites and Maacathites. Verse 33 – Provision for the Levites Again the text underscores: “Moses gave no inheritance to the tribe of Levi; the LORD, the God of Israel, is their inheritance” (v. 33). This chapter tells of Joshua's twilight years and the work remaining to conquer the land promised by God to the Israelites. It discusses the inheritance given to various tribes and highlights the importance of obedience and trust in God's promises. Setting in Joshua’s Storyline Chapters 1–12 record Israel’s victories; chapters 13–24 describe dividing the land. Joshua 13 marks the pivot from warfare to settlement. Though military campaigns have broken Canaan’s power, many pockets of resistance remain. God instructs allocation now, teaching the tribes to act in faith, occupy, and finish clearing the land. Joshua’s Advanced Age and Ongoing Mission • “You are old… yet very much of the land remains” (v. 1). Age does not release Joshua from calling; he must still lead administratively. • Parallel: Moses, at 120, delegated leadership (Deuteronomy 31:1-3). God often pairs an aging leader with fresh responsibility, stressing reliance on divine strength (Isaiah 46:4). Unconquered Territories: Historical & Archaeological Notes Philistine Pentapolis – Gaza, Ashdod, Ashkelon, Gath, Ekron (v. 3). Excavations show Late Bronze fortifications and imported Aegean pottery, matching Philistine arrival after Joshua’s era; full subjugation waits until David (1 Samuel 17). Geshur (v. 2, 11) – A small Aramean kingdom east of the Sea of Galilee; later, King David marries Maacah, daughter of Talmai of Geshur (2 Samuel 3:3). Ruins at et-Tell may reflect this region. Gebal/Byblos (v. 5) – A Phoenician port famous for timber trade; cedar floats south to Jerusalem in Solomon’s day (1 Kings 5:6-9). Lebanon to Baal-gad (v. 5) – Upper north; modern Hermon range. Ugaritic tablets from Ras Shamra illuminate Canaanite religion that persisted in these areas. Tribal Allocations East of the Jordan Why did Reuben, Gad, and half-Manasseh settle early? Numbers 32 records their large herds and request for pastureland. Conditions: 1. They must build cities for families. 2. Fighting men must cross the Jordan to help their brothers. Joshua 22 later praises them for keeping this promise. Their territory forms a buffer against eastern raiders but also exposes them first to later Assyrian exile (2 Kings 15:29). The Levites’ Unique Role • No landed inheritance (vv. 14, 33; cf. Numbers 18:20). God is their portion. • Instead they receive tithes, offerings, and forty-eight towns (Joshua 21). • Picture of dependence on God, pointing forward to the believer’s heavenly citizenship (Hebrews 13:14). Canaanite Strongholds and Israel’s Incomplete Obedience The text lists remaining territory not as defeat but as a checklist. Yet later books (Judges 1; 1 Samuel 13) reveal Israel’s partial drive-out, leading to idolatry cycles. Joshua 13 therefore issues an unfinished agenda: enter, trust, and possess. Faith Lessons From Dividing Before Conquest • Promise precedes possession. God allots boundaries before enemies are displaced. • Obedience involves administrative faithfulness: surveying land, writing allotment scrolls (Joshua 18:8-9). • Older believers still serve: Joshua divides; Eleazar the priest and tribal leaders assist (Numbers 34:17-18). Echoes in Later Scripture • Psalm 78:55 recalls God “drove out nations…and settled the tribes of Israel in their tents.” • Amos 1:6-8 prophesies judgment on Philistia—unfinished business from Joshua 13. • Hebrews 4:8 notes that Joshua did not bring final rest; the ultimate rest remains in Christ. Messiah Foreshadowed in the Land Portions Jesus, of the tribe of Judah, ministered in territory Joshua assigned centuries earlier—Galilee once held by Naphtali and Zebulun (Isaiah 9:1-2; Matthew 4:13-16). Even the “beyond the Jordan” region where He healed multitudes (Matthew 19:1) belonged to Reuben, Gad, and Manasseh. Land allotment prepares a stage for redemption history. Practical Takeaways • Boundaries remind believers to value God-given assignments, big or small. • Levites’ dependence calls modern servants to trust God for provision. • Unfinished conquest urges continued spiritual vigilance; areas not surrendered to God become future strongholds. Connections to Additional Scriptures God's Faithfulness Hebrews 10:23 - Let us hold resolutely to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful. Inheritance in Christ Ephesians 1:11 - In Him we were also chosen as God’s own, having been predestined according to the plan of Him who works out everything by the counsel of His will. Spiritual Leadership 1 Peter 2:9 - But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, to proclaim the virtues of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light. Teaching Points God's Faithfulness in Fulfillment Joshua 13:1-7 highlights God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to Israel. Despite Joshua being old and advanced in years, God continues to guide the distribution of the land, showing that His promises are not limited by human limitations. The Inheritance of the Tribes Verses 8-33 detail the specific inheritances given to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh. This distribution underscores the importance of each tribe's role in God's plan and the significance of their unique inheritances. The Role of Levi In verse 14, we see that the tribe of Levi receives no land inheritance because the offerings by fire to the LORD, the God of Israel, are their inheritance. This highlights the Levites' special role in spiritual leadership and service to God. Unfinished Business Despite the land being divided, there are still areas that remain unconquered. This serves as a reminder that while God provides, there is still work to be done in faith and obedience. Practical Applications Trust in God's Timing Just as God fulfilled His promises to Israel, we can trust in His perfect timing and provision in our own lives. Embrace Your Inheritance Recognize and embrace the unique gifts and roles God has given you, just as each tribe received their specific inheritance. Spiritual Leadership Like the Levites, consider how you can serve and lead in your community, prioritizing spiritual growth and service. Persevere in Faith Acknowledge areas in your life that require continued faith and action, trusting that God will guide you in completing His work. People 1. Joshua Joshua is the central figure in the Book of Joshua, serving as the leader of the Israelites after Moses. In Joshua 13, he is described as "old and advanced in years" (Joshua 13:1), and God instructs him to apportion the remaining land among the tribes of Israel. 2. Moses Although not present in the narrative of Joshua 13, Moses is referenced as the servant of the LORD who previously allocated land to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh on the east side of the Jordan (Joshua 13:8). 3. Caleb Caleb is mentioned in the context of the land allocations. He is one of the two faithful spies (along with Joshua) who trusted in God's promise to give Israel the land of Canaan (Joshua 13:6). 4. Balaam son of Beor Balaam is mentioned as a diviner who was killed by the Israelites during their conquest of the land (Joshua 13:22). His account is more fully detailed in the Book of Numbers, where he is known for his interactions with Balak, king of Moab. 5. Eleazar the priest Although not directly mentioned in Joshua 13, Eleazar is the high priest during this period and plays a significant role in the allocation of the land, as seen in other chapters of Joshua. Places 1. The Land of the Philistines This region includes the five Philistine cities: Gaza, Ashdod, Ashkelon, Gath, and Ekron. The Philistines were a significant group in the coastal region of Canaan. 2. Geshurites A small kingdom located in the northeastern part of the land of Canaan, near the Sea of Galilee. The Geshurites were not fully driven out by the Israelites. 3. Lebanon Specifically mentioned from Baal-gad below Mount Hermon to Lebo-hamath. This area is in the northern part of the land, known for its mountainous terrain. 4. Mearah A place mentioned in the context of the Sidonians, possibly a cave or a region near Sidon. 5. Aphek A city or region that was part of the territory of the Canaanites, located near the border of the Amorites. 6. The Land of the Gebalites Refers to the territory of the people of Gebal, also known as Byblos, an ancient city located on the coast of modern-day Lebanon. 7. All Lebanon, toward the sunrise This phrase indicates the eastern part of Lebanon, extending toward the rising sun, or eastward. 8. The Valley of the Arnon A significant valley that served as a boundary between Moab and the Amorites, located east of the Dead Sea. 9. The Land of the Rephaim Refers to a region inhabited by the Rephaim, a group of ancient people known for their large stature. 10. The Land of the Canaanites A general term for the territories inhabited by the Canaanite people, covering a broad area in the land of Canaan. 11. The Land of the Sidonians Refers to the territory around the city of Sidon, a major Phoenician city on the Mediterranean coast. 12. The Land of the Amorites A region inhabited by the Amorites, a prominent group in the ancient Near East, often located in the hill country. 13. The Land of the Moabites Refers to the territory east of the Dead Sea, inhabited by the Moabites, descendants of Lot. 14. The Land of the Ammonites Located east of the Jordan River, the Ammonites were another group descended from Lot. 15. The Land of the Gileadites Refers to the region of Gilead, known for its balm, located east of the Jordan River. 16. The Land of Bashan A fertile region known for its cattle, located northeast of the Sea of Galilee. 17. The Land of the Maacathites A small kingdom located near the region of Bashan, not fully conquered by the Israelites. Events 1. Joshua's Advanced Age and Remaining Land The chapter begins with the LORD speaking to Joshua, acknowledging his advanced age and the significant amount of land yet to be conquered. The Hebrew word for "old" (זָקֵן, zaqen) emphasizes Joshua's seniority and experience. ^"Now Joshua was old and advanced in years, and the LORD said to him, 'You are old and advanced in years, but very much of the land remains to be possessed.'"^ (Joshua 13:1) 2. Description of the Remaining Land The LORD provides a detailed description of the territories that remain to be conquered, including regions of the Philistines and Geshurites. This includes the land from the Shihor River east of Egypt to the territory of Ekron in the north. ^"This is the land that remains: all the regions of the Philistines and the Geshurites..."^ (Joshua 13:2) 3. Land of the Canaanites and Other Territories The passage continues to list the territories of the Canaanites, including Mearah, which belongs to the Sidonians, and the land of the Gebalites. The Hebrew term for "Canaanites" (כְּנַעֲנִי, Kena'ani) refers to the inhabitants of the land promised to Israel. ^"all the land of the Canaanites, from Arah of the Sidonians to Aphek, as far as the border of the Amorites..."^ (Joshua 13:4) 4. Instructions for Division of the Land God instructs Joshua to divide the land among the nine tribes and the half-tribe of Manasseh. This division is to be done by casting lots, a practice rooted in the Hebrew tradition of seeking divine guidance. ^"Now therefore divide this land as an inheritance to the nine tribes and the half-tribe of Manasseh.”^ (Joshua 13:7) 5. Inheritance of the Tribe of Levi The Levites are given no inheritance of land because their inheritance is the offerings made by fire to the LORD, the God of Israel. The Hebrew word for "inheritance" (נַחֲלָה, nachalah) signifies a possession or heritage. ^"But to the tribe of Levi, Moses had given no inheritance; the LORD, the God of Israel, is their inheritance, as He had promised them."^ (Joshua 13:14) 6. Territories East of the Jordan The chapter details the territories east of the Jordan River that Moses had already given to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh. This includes the kingdom of Sihon king of the Amorites and the kingdom of Og king of Bashan. ^"To the Reubenites and Gadites, I gave the territory extending from Aroer on the rim of the Arnon Valley, along with the city in the middle of the valley, and all the tableland of Medeba as far as Dibon..."^ (Joshua 13:16) 7. Summary of Conquered Kings The chapter concludes with a summary of the kings defeated by Moses and the territories given to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh. ^"These are the areas Moses had given as an inheritance east of the Jordan, as he was the servant of the LORD..."^ (Joshua 13:32) Lessons from Joshua 13 1. Embrace the Unfinished Work In Joshua 13:1, we find that Joshua is old and advanced in years, yet there remains much land to be possessed. This reminds us that our journey of faith is ongoing. Just as Joshua had more to accomplish, we too have a divine purpose that continues to unfold. Embrace the unfinished work in your life as an opportunity to grow and serve. 2. Trust in God's Promises God reassures Joshua in verse 6, saying, "I Myself will drive them out before the Israelites." This is a powerful reminder that God’s promises are steadfast. When we face challenges, we can trust that God is with us, guiding us through every obstacle. Lean on His promises and find peace in His faithfulness. 3. Recognize the Inheritance Joshua 13:7 speaks of dividing the land as an inheritance. This is a beautiful picture of the spiritual inheritance we have in Christ. Ephesians 1:11 tells us, "In Him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of Him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of His will." Recognize and cherish the spiritual blessings you have received. 4. Acknowledge God's Sovereignty The division of the land among the tribes, as detailed in verses 8-33, highlights God’s sovereignty. He orchestrates every detail of our lives. Trust in His perfect plan, knowing that He is in control and works all things for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28). 5. Value Obedience Over Convenience The tribes were instructed to take possession of their allotted lands, even when it was challenging. This teaches us the importance of obedience to God’s commands, even when it’s not convenient. As Jesus said in John 14:15, "If you love Me, you will keep My commandments." 6. Learn from the Past Joshua 13 recounts the history of the land and its previous inhabitants. Reflecting on the past helps us learn valuable lessons. Remember the victories and mistakes of those who came before us, and let them guide your path forward. 7. Be Diligent in Your Calling The Levites were given no land inheritance because their inheritance was the Lord Himself (verse 33). This reminds us to be diligent in our calling, focusing on what God has entrusted to us. Whether it’s serving in ministry or in everyday tasks, do it wholeheartedly as unto the Lord (Colossians 3:23). 8. Prioritize Spiritual Riches While the tribes received physical land, the Levites’ portion was spiritual. This teaches us to prioritize spiritual riches over material wealth. As Jesus said in Matthew 6:33, "But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you." 9. Persevere in Faith Joshua’s leadership and the division of the land required perseverance. In our own lives, perseverance in faith is crucial. Hebrews 12:1 encourages us to "run with endurance the race set out for us," keeping our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith. 10. Celebrate God's Faithfulness Finally, Joshua 13 is a testament to God’s faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to Israel. Celebrate His faithfulness in your life. Reflect on the ways He has provided, protected, and guided you, and let that inspire gratitude and worship. As Lamentations 3:22-23 reminds us, "His mercies never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness." Topics 1. The Land Yet to Be Conquered Joshua 13 begins with God speaking to Joshua, who is now old, about the land that remains to be conquered. The passage highlights the territories that the Israelites have not yet taken possession of, including regions of the Philistines and Geshurites. This section underscores the ongoing task of claiming the Promised Land, as God had commanded. ^"Now Joshua was old and advanced in years, and the LORD said to him, 'You are old and advanced in years, but very much of the land remains to be possessed.'"^ (Joshua 13:1) 2. The Division of the Land East of the Jordan The chapter details the division of the land east of the Jordan River, which Moses had previously allocated to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh. This allocation is a fulfillment of God's promises and reflects the importance of obedience to divine instructions. ^"This is the land that remains: all the regions of the Philistines and the Geshurites..."^ (Joshua 13:2) 3. Inheritance of the Tribe of Levi Unlike the other tribes, the Levites do not receive a territorial inheritance. Instead, their inheritance is the offerings made by fire to the LORD, emphasizing their unique role as priests and servants of God. This distinction highlights the spiritual heritage and responsibilities of the Levites. ^"But to the tribe of Levi, Moses had given no inheritance; the LORD, the God of Israel, is their inheritance, as He had promised them."^ (Joshua 13:33) 4. Specific Allotments to Reuben, Gad, and Half-Tribe of Manasseh The chapter provides specific details about the territories allotted to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh. These descriptions include cities and geographical boundaries, underscoring the precision and orderliness of God's plan for His people. ^"This is what Moses had given to the clans of the tribe of Reuben: The territory from Aroer on the rim of the Arnon Valley, and from the city in the middle of the valley, and all the plain of Medeba..."^ (Joshua 13:15-16) Themes 1. Divine Command for Land Distribution In Joshua 13, God instructs Joshua to distribute the remaining land among the Israelite tribes. This theme emphasizes God's sovereignty and His promise to give the Israelites the land of Canaan. The Hebrew word "נַחֲלָה" (nachalah), meaning "inheritance," is central to this theme, highlighting the land as a divine gift. 2. Unfinished Conquest The chapter begins with God acknowledging that much of the land remains to be possessed: "You are now old and advanced in years, and very much of the land remains to be possessed" (Joshua 13:1). This theme underscores the ongoing nature of God's promises and the need for continued faithfulness and action by the Israelites. 3. Specific Boundaries and Territories Joshua 13 details the specific regions and peoples that remain to be conquered, such as the Philistines and the Geshurites. This theme reflects the importance of boundaries and order in God's plan, as well as the historical and geographical context of the Israelites' inheritance. 4. Inheritance for the Tribes of Reuben, Gad, and Half-Tribe of Manasseh The chapter outlines the inheritance east of the Jordan for these tribes, as previously arranged by Moses. This theme highlights the fulfillment of past agreements and the continuity of God's covenant with His people. 5. Role of the Levites The Levites are given no land inheritance, as "the offerings made by fire to the LORD, the God of Israel, are their inheritance" (Joshua 13:14). This theme emphasizes the unique spiritual role of the Levites and the concept of God Himself as their portion, reflected in the Hebrew word "חֵלֶק" (chelek), meaning "portion" or "share." 6. Faithfulness to God's Commands The chapter reflects the importance of adhering to God's instructions regarding the land and its distribution. This theme is a reminder of the Israelites' covenantal relationship with God and the blessings tied to obedience. 7. Historical Continuity and Fulfillment Joshua 13 connects the present actions of Joshua with the past leadership of Moses, showing the continuity of God's plan and promises. This theme underscores the faithfulness of God across generations and the unfolding of His divine purposes. Prayer Points Thanksgiving for God's Faithfulness Thank God for His unwavering faithfulness and the fulfillment of His promises in your life. Guidance in Embracing Your Role Pray for wisdom and courage to embrace the unique role and gifts God has given you. Strength for Unfinished Tasks Ask for strength and perseverance to continue in faith and complete the tasks God has set before you. Commitment to Spiritual Leadership Seek God's guidance in becoming a spiritual leader in your community, serving others with love and humility. Answering Tough Questions 1. Joshua 13:1 – How credible is it that after all the previous conquests, so much land still remained, contradicting earlier assertions that the land was largely subdued? 2. Joshua 13:2–6 – Why is there no archaeological record confirming Israel’s partial control over these specific Philistine and neighboring territories? 3. Joshua 13:8–14 – If Reuben’s and Gad’s territories east of the Jordan were truly established, why is tangible evidence of extensive settlement in those regions sparse? 4. Joshua 13:13 – How could Israel remain unable to drive out certain peoples if God supposedly promised victory, suggesting an inconsistency with divine intervention claims? 5. Joshua 13:33 – Does the unique inheritance of Levi (no land portion) imply internal contradictions with God’s earlier covenant commands regarding tribal allocations? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. When God tells Joshua he is old but there is still much work to be done, what does this say about God’s expectations for service regardless of our age or condition? 2. In your life, have you ever felt like Joshua - that you have done much, but there is still more to accomplish? How did you respond? 3. How can the idea of there being much land still to take apply to your spiritual life and goals? 4. The land yet to be conquered was described in great detail. What does this tell us about God’s knowledge of our individual challenges and tasks? 5. How can we apply the concept of the "promised land" yet to be taken in the context of unfulfilled promises or unrealized potential in our lives? 6. God divided the land among the tribes, each according to their size and need. How does this mirror God's distribution of gifts and responsibilities in the church today? 7. What can we learn from the Levites not receiving a portion of land like the other tribes, but cities to live in with pasturelands for their livestock and property? 8. In our society today, how can we relate to the Levites’ role and their lack of land inheritance? 9. God faithfully fulfilled His promise to the tribes of Israel by giving them land. How does this boost your confidence in God's promises in your life? 10. How can the varied terrains of the lands given to different tribes speak to the diversity of our individual spiritual journeys and callings? 11. Despite God's assurance, the Israelites faced the daunting task of possessing their lands. How do you face seemingly overwhelming tasks, even when you know God is with you? 12. What does the process of apportioning land among the tribes tell us about justice and equity in God's kingdom? 13. The chapter highlights that certain areas remained unconquered. What "unconquered territories" do you think exist in your spiritual life, and how can you approach them? 14. How does Joshua's leadership during the division of the land inspire you in your own leadership roles? 15. The chapter suggests the importance of everyone having a place in God's plan. How does this apply to your understanding of your role in the Christian community? 16. How does the fact that God still had work for Joshua, despite his old age, change your perspective on service in the church and community at different stages of life? 17. In the context of this chapter, how would you understand the statement: "The work of God is never done"? 18. God had a plan for every tribe in Israel. How does this help you to understand His individual plans for us? 19. In current times, how can we practice the principles of responsibility and communal living as seen in Joshua's distribution of the land? 20. Looking at the different tribes receiving their inheritance, what does this tell you about God's individual plans for each of us in terms of talents, skills, and spiritual gifts? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions