Joshua 9:25

Now we are in your hands. Do to us whatever seems good and right to you."

Study Bible

Now we are in your hands
This phrase signifies a complete surrender and submission to the authority of another. In the context of Joshua 9, the Gibeonites, having deceived Israel into making a covenant with them, now place themselves at the mercy of Joshua and the Israelites. The Hebrew word for "hands" (יָד, yad) often symbolizes power and control. This act of submission reflects a recognition of the Israelites' God-given authority and the Gibeonites' acknowledgment of their own vulnerability. Historically, this moment underscores the importance of covenant relationships in the ancient Near East, where breaking a covenant was considered a grave offense. Spiritually, it reminds believers of the importance of humility and the recognition of God's sovereignty over our lives.

Do to us as it seems good and right to you
The Gibeonites' plea here is an appeal to the moral and ethical standards of the Israelites. The words "good" (טוֹב, tov) and "right" (יָשָׁר, yashar) are deeply rooted in the Hebrew understanding of righteousness and justice. "Tov" often refers to what is beneficial, pleasing, or morally good, while "yashar" implies straightness or uprightness, often used in the context of ethical conduct. This phrase indicates the Gibeonites' trust in the Israelites' commitment to justice and righteousness, even after their deception. It also highlights the biblical principle that God's people are called to act justly and righteously, reflecting God's character in their dealings with others. This serves as a powerful reminder for believers to seek God's guidance in making decisions that align with His standards of goodness and righteousness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The leader of the Israelites, who succeeded Moses and led the people into the Promised Land. He is responsible for making decisions regarding the Gibeonites.

2. Gibeonites
A group of people from Gibeon who deceived the Israelites into making a peace treaty with them by pretending to be from a distant land.

3. Israelites
The people of God, led by Joshua, who are in the process of conquering the Promised Land as commanded by God.

4. Gibeon
A city in Canaan whose inhabitants tricked the Israelites into making a covenant with them.

5. Covenant
An agreement made between the Israelites and the Gibeonites, which was based on deception but still binding.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Discernment
Joshua and the Israelites failed to seek God's guidance before making a covenant with the Gibeonites. This teaches us the importance of seeking divine wisdom in our decisions.

The Binding Nature of Covenants
Despite the deception, the Israelites honored their covenant with the Gibeonites. This underscores the importance of keeping our commitments, even when they are made under less-than-ideal circumstances.

God's Sovereignty in Human Affairs
Despite human mistakes, God's plans are not thwarted. The Gibeonites' integration into Israel's community shows how God can use even our errors for His purposes.

The Consequences of Deception
The Gibeonites' deception had long-term consequences, reminding us that deceit can lead to complex and lasting repercussions.

Grace and Mercy
The Israelites' decision to spare the Gibeonites, despite their deception, reflects God's grace and mercy, which we are called to emulate in our interactions with others.

Bible Study Questions

1. How can we apply the lesson of seeking God's guidance in our decision-making processes today?

2. In what ways does the account of the Gibeonites challenge us to consider the importance of honesty and integrity in our own lives?

3. How does the Israelites' response to the Gibeonites' deception reflect the biblical principle of keeping one's word, and how can we apply this in our commitments?

4. What are some modern-day examples of situations where we might be tempted to deceive or be deceived, and how can we guard against this?

5. How does the account of the Gibeonites illustrate God's ability to work through human mistakes, and how can this encourage us in our walk with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 7:1-2
This passage outlines God's command to the Israelites to destroy the inhabitants of the land and not make covenants with them, highlighting the seriousness of the Gibeonites' deception.

2 Samuel 21:1-6
This passage shows the long-term consequences of the covenant with the Gibeonites, as Saul's violation of it brings a famine upon Israel.

Matthew 5:37
Jesus teaches about the importance of honesty and integrity, which contrasts with the deception of the Gibeonites.