Joshua 17:14

Then the sons of Joseph said to Joshua, "Why have you given us only one portion as an inheritance? We have many people, because the LORD has blessed us abundantly."

Study Bible

The sons of Joseph
This phrase refers to the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh, the two sons of Joseph, who was one of the twelve sons of Jacob. Historically, Joseph was given a double portion through his sons, which is why these tribes are often collectively referred to as the "house of Joseph." This reflects the special status Joseph held in the family, as well as the fulfillment of Jacob's blessing in Genesis 48:5, where he adopts Ephraim and Manasseh as his own sons.

said to Joshua
Joshua, the leader of Israel after Moses, was responsible for dividing the Promised Land among the tribes. His role was not only administrative but also spiritual, as he was to ensure that the distribution was in accordance with God's will. The approach of the sons of Joseph to Joshua indicates their recognition of his authority and the need for divine guidance in the allocation of the land.

Why have you given us only one allotment and one portion as an inheritance?
This question reveals a sense of dissatisfaction and entitlement among the sons of Joseph. The term "allotment" refers to the division of land, which was a significant aspect of Israel's identity and God's promise to Abraham. The "one portion" suggests they felt their inheritance was insufficient given their size and importance. This reflects a common human tendency to compare and question God's provision, challenging believers to trust in God's perfect plan and timing.

We are a numerous people
The claim of being "numerous" highlights the growth and strength of the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh. This fulfillment of God's promise to multiply Abraham's descendants (Genesis 22:17) underscores the faithfulness of God. It also serves as a reminder of the responsibility that comes with blessings, as a larger population required more resources and land to sustain them.

whom the LORD has blessed so abundantly
This acknowledgment of God's blessing is crucial. It recognizes that their numbers and strength are not due to their own efforts but are a result of divine favor. The Hebrew root for "blessed" (בָּרַךְ, barak) conveys a sense of being endowed with power for success, prosperity, and longevity. This phrase serves as a reminder to believers that all blessings come from God and should be received with gratitude and humility.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Sons of Joseph
Refers to the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh, the descendants of Joseph, who was one of the twelve sons of Jacob. They were given a significant inheritance in the Promised Land due to Joseph's prominence in Egypt.

2. Joshua
The leader of Israel after Moses, responsible for leading the Israelites into the Promised Land and distributing the land among the tribes.

3. Inheritance
The land allotment given to the tribes of Israel as their permanent possession in the Promised Land, as promised by God.

4. Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which God promised to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

5. Blessing of the LORD
The acknowledgment that the increase in numbers and prosperity of the tribes is due to God's blessing.

Teaching Points

Understanding God's Provision
The tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh were blessed with abundance, yet they sought more. This teaches us to recognize and be content with God's provision in our lives.

Faith and Action
While the tribes were numerous, they needed to act in faith to fully possess their inheritance. Similarly, we must step out in faith to claim God's promises in our lives.

Gratitude and Contentment
The request for more land highlights the human tendency to desire more, even when blessed. We should cultivate gratitude and contentment with what God has given us.

Leadership and Wisdom
Joshua's role in addressing the concerns of the tribes shows the importance of wise and fair leadership in resolving disputes and guiding God's people.

God's Blessing and Responsibility
Being blessed by God comes with the responsibility to steward those blessings well and to trust in His provision.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the request of the sons of Joseph reflect human nature in terms of contentment and gratitude? How can we apply this lesson to our own lives?

2. In what ways does the blessing of Ephraim and Manasseh in Genesis 48 connect to their request in Joshua 17:14? How does this inform our understanding of God's promises?

3. How can we balance the need for faith and action in our lives, as seen in the tribes' need to possess their inheritance?

4. What can we learn from Joshua's leadership in handling the request of the sons of Joseph, and how can we apply these principles in our roles today?

5. Reflect on a time when you felt blessed by God but still desired more. How can this passage help you cultivate a heart of contentment and gratitude?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 48
Jacob's blessing of Joseph's sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, where he adopts them as his own and gives them a special blessing, setting the stage for their significant inheritance.

Numbers 26
The census of the tribes of Israel, which shows the large population of the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh, supporting their claim of being a "numerous people."

Deuteronomy 33
Moses' blessing of the tribes, where Joseph's descendants are blessed with abundance and strength, reflecting God's favor upon them.