◄ Joshua 13 ►
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Summary The Inheritance East of the Jordan In Joshua's old age, he is reminded of the task yet to be completed—conquering the remaining promised land. However, in the distribution of the conquered territories, we see God's faithfulness. The allocation of inheritances, particularly the divine inheritance for the tribe of Levi, symbolizes the unique relationship each tribe has with God. Remaining Land and God’s Command (verses 1-7) Despite Joshua's old age, God reminds him that much land remains to be conquered. God gives a detailed account of the territories and instructs Joshua to divide it among the Israelite tribes. The Eastern Lands and the Inheritance of Tribes (verses 8-14) God recounts how Moses assigned lands east of Jordan to the Reubenites, Gadites, and half of the tribe of Manasseh. The Geshurites and Maacathites who weren't driven out still live among the Israelites. The tribe of Levi receives no physical inheritance, as their portion is God Himself. Inheritances of Reuben, Gad, and Half-Tribe of Manasseh (verses 15-33) These verses detail the specific territories allocated to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh. Each inheritance includes cities and lands previously held by formidable rulers like Sihon and Og, signifying the breadth of Israel's victories. 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. 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 story 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) 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. 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. Bible Study 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? 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. Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions