Deuteronomy 31:7

Then Moses called for Joshua and said to him in the presence of all Israel, "Be strong and courageous, for you will go with this people into the land that the LORD swore to their fathers to give them, and you shall give it to them as an inheritance.

Study Bible

Then Moses called for Joshua
This phrase marks a significant transition in leadership from Moses to Joshua. The Hebrew root for "called" is קָרָא (qara), which implies a summoning or a calling forth with purpose. Moses, the great leader and prophet, is publicly affirming Joshua, ensuring that the people recognize the divine appointment of Joshua as their new leader. This public endorsement is crucial for maintaining unity and continuity among the Israelites.

and said to him in the presence of all Israel
The public nature of this declaration is vital. It underscores the transparency and accountability in leadership transitions. By addressing Joshua in front of all Israel, Moses ensures that there is no doubt about Joshua's authority. This public affirmation is a model for leadership transitions, emphasizing the importance of community acknowledgment and support.

Be strong and courageous
This exhortation is repeated multiple times in the book of Deuteronomy and Joshua, highlighting its importance. The Hebrew words חֲזַק (chazaq) for "strong" and אָמֵץ (amats) for "courageous" convey not just physical strength and bravery, but also a steadfastness and resolve in the face of challenges. This call to strength and courage is not based on human ability alone but is rooted in faith and trust in God's promises and presence.

for you will go with this people
Joshua's role is not just to lead but to accompany the people. The Hebrew word for "go" is בּוֹא (bo), which implies entering or coming into a place. Joshua is to be a shepherd-like leader, walking alongside the Israelites as they enter the Promised Land. This reflects the biblical model of leadership as service and companionship, rather than domination or distance.

into the land that the LORD swore to their fathers to give them
This phrase emphasizes the covenantal promise of God. The land is not just a physical territory but a fulfillment of God's oath to the patriarchs—Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The Hebrew word for "swore" is שָׁבַע (shaba), which is a solemn promise or oath. This underscores the faithfulness of God to His word, a central theme in the narrative of Israel.

and you shall give it to them as an inheritance
The concept of "inheritance" in Hebrew, נַחֲלָה (nachalah), is deeply significant. It denotes not just possession but a divinely ordained gift that is to be cherished and stewarded. Joshua's task is to distribute the land according to God's instructions, ensuring that each tribe receives its allotted portion. This reflects the biblical principle of stewardship and the understanding that all blessings come from God and are to be managed according to His will.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who brought them out of Egypt and guided them through the wilderness. He is preparing to pass leadership to Joshua.

2. Joshua
Moses' assistant and successor, chosen to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land. His name in Hebrew, "Yehoshua," means "Yahweh is salvation."

3. Israel
The nation chosen by God, consisting of the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. They are on the brink of entering the Promised Land.

4. The Promised Land
The land of Canaan, promised by God to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob as an inheritance.

5. The LORD's Oath
The covenant promise God made to the patriarchs to give their descendants the land of Canaan.

Teaching Points

Leadership Transition
Leadership transitions are significant moments that require divine guidance and human courage. Moses' charge to Joshua highlights the importance of preparing and empowering new leaders.

Divine Promises
God's promises are sure and steadfast. Just as He promised the land to the patriarchs, He fulfills His word through Joshua. Believers can trust in God's faithfulness to His promises.

Courage and Strength
The call to be strong and courageous is a recurring biblical theme. It is not based on human ability but on God's presence and promises. Believers are encouraged to face challenges with confidence in God's support.

Inheritance and Legacy
The concept of inheritance in the Bible extends beyond physical land to spiritual blessings. Christians are called to live in the reality of their spiritual inheritance in Christ.

Public Affirmation
Moses' public charge to Joshua underscores the importance of community support and accountability in leadership roles. The community's role is to encourage and uphold their leaders.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the transition of leadership from Moses to Joshua reflect God's faithfulness to His promises?

2. In what ways can we apply the command to "be strong and courageous" in our personal lives today?

3. How does the concept of inheritance in Deuteronomy 31:7 relate to the spiritual inheritance believers have in Christ?

4. What role does community play in supporting and affirming leaders, as seen in Moses' charge to Joshua?

5. How can we draw strength and courage from God's promises in times of uncertainty or transition?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 1:6-9
God reiterates the command to Joshua to be strong and courageous, emphasizing His presence and the importance of adhering to the Law.

Hebrews 13:5-6
Echoes the assurance of God's presence and faithfulness, encouraging believers to be confident and courageous.

1 Chronicles 28:20
David's charge to Solomon mirrors Moses' charge to Joshua, emphasizing strength, courage, and reliance on God.