Then Joshua commanded the officers of the people: ThenThe word "then" serves as a transitional term, indicating a sequence of events. In the context of Joshua 1, it follows God's commissioning of Joshua as the leader of Israel after Moses' death. This transition marks a pivotal moment in Israel's history, as they prepare to enter the Promised Land. The Hebrew word for "then" is "וַיְהִי" (vayehi), often used to denote a continuation of a narrative, emphasizing the immediacy and urgency of Joshua's actions following God's instructions. Joshua commanded the officers of the people Persons / Places / Events 1. JoshuaThe central figure in this passage, Joshua is the leader of the Israelites following Moses' death. He is tasked with leading the people into the Promised Land. 2. Officers of the People These are the leaders or officials among the Israelites who assist Joshua in communicating and implementing God's commands to the people. 3. The Israelites The nation of God's chosen people, who are on the brink of entering the Promised Land after wandering in the wilderness for 40 years. 4. The Promised Land The land of Canaan, which God promised to Abraham and his descendants. It represents the fulfillment of God's covenant and a place of rest and blessing for the Israelites. 5. The Command Joshua's directive to the officers marks the beginning of the Israelites' preparation to cross the Jordan River and take possession of the land God has given them. Teaching Points Leadership and ObedienceJoshua's command to the officers demonstrates the importance of leadership in God's plan. Leaders must be obedient to God's instructions and effectively communicate them to others. Preparation for God's Promises The Israelites' preparation to enter the Promised Land reminds us that receiving God's promises often requires active participation and readiness on our part. Faith in Action Joshua's leadership exemplifies faith in action. He trusts God's promise and takes practical steps to lead the people forward, encouraging us to act on our faith. Community and Cooperation The role of the officers highlights the need for cooperation and unity within the community of believers. Each person has a role to play in fulfilling God's purposes. Courage and Trust Joshua's command is rooted in the courage and trust that God is with them. We are called to be courageous and trust in God's presence and guidance in our lives. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Joshua's leadership style in this passage reflect the qualities God desires in a leader? Consider other biblical leaders and their characteristics.2. In what ways can we prepare ourselves to receive and act upon God's promises in our lives, similar to the Israelites preparing to enter the Promised Land? 3. How does the role of the officers in this passage illustrate the importance of community and teamwork in fulfilling God's plans? 4. Reflect on a time when you had to step out in faith and take action based on God's promises. What did you learn from that experience? 5. How can we cultivate courage and trust in God in our daily lives, especially when facing challenges or uncertainties? Consider other scriptures that encourage trust in God. Connections to Other Scriptures Deuteronomy 31:7-8This passage highlights Moses' charge to Joshua, encouraging him to be strong and courageous as he leads the people into the Promised Land, emphasizing God's presence and faithfulness. Exodus 18:21-26 This passage describes the establishment of leaders among the Israelites, providing a precedent for the role of officers who assist in governance and communication. Numbers 27:18-23 Here, God instructs Moses to appoint Joshua as his successor, laying hands on him and commissioning him before the people, signifying the transfer of leadership.
People Gadites, Hittites, Israelites, Joshua, Manasseh, Nun, ReubenitesPlaces Euphrates River, Great Sea, Jordan River, Lebanon, MoabTopics Authorities, Authority, Commanded, Commandeth, Joshua, Officers, Ordered, Orders, SayingDictionary of Bible Themes Joshua 1:6-11Library The New Leaders Commission'Now after the death of Moses the servant of the Lord it came to pass, that the Lord spake unto Joshua the son of Nun, Moses' minister, saying, 2. Moses My servant is dead: now therefore arise, go over this Jordan, thou, and all this people, unto the land which I do give to them, even to the children of Israel. 3. Every place that the sole of your foot shall tread upon, that have I given unto you, as I said unto Moses. 4. From the wilderness and this Lebanon even unto the great river, the river Euphrates, … Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture The Charge to the Soldier of the Lord The Jewish Dispersion in the West - the Hellenists - Origin of Hellenist Literature in the Greek Translation of the Bible - Character of the Septuagint. Subjects of Study. Home Education in Israel; Female Education. Elementary Schools, Schoolmasters, and School Arrangements. The Finding of Moses Five Kings in a Cave Brave Encouragements Getting Ready to Enter Canaan The Routing of Giant Doubt Never! Never! Never! Never! Never! From his Commission to Reside Abroad in 1820 to his Removal to Germany in 1822 Sundry Exhortations. A Sermon on Isaiah xxvi. By John Knox. Moses and his Writings The Great Commission Given. Joshua Links Joshua 1:10 NIVJoshua 1:10 NLT Joshua 1:10 ESV Joshua 1:10 NASB Joshua 1:10 KJV Joshua 1:10 Commentaries Bible Hub |