The commissioning of Joshua marks a pivotal moment in the biblical narrative, as leadership transitions from Moses to Joshua, setting the stage for the Israelites' conquest of the Promised Land. This event is primarily recorded in the Book of Joshua, with significant references in Deuteronomy.

Background

Joshua, son of Nun, from the tribe of Ephraim, first appears in the biblical narrative as a military leader during the battle against the Amalekites (Exodus 17:9-13). He is later identified as Moses' assistant and one of the twelve spies sent to explore Canaan (Numbers 13:8, 16). Unlike the other spies, Joshua, along with Caleb, demonstrates faith in God's promise, urging the Israelites to trust in God's ability to deliver the land into their hands (Numbers 14:6-9).

The Commissioning

The formal commissioning of Joshua is recorded in Deuteronomy 31 and Joshua 1. As Moses' life draws to a close, God instructs him to appoint Joshua as his successor. In Deuteronomy 31:7-8, Moses publicly charges Joshua with the task of leading the people into the Promised Land: "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. The LORD Himself goes before you; He will be with you. He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid or discouraged.'"

God's Direct Charge

In Joshua 1:1-9, God Himself speaks directly to Joshua, reinforcing the charge given by Moses. The Lord commands Joshua to be strong and courageous, emphasizing the importance of adherence to the Law given through Moses. Joshua 1:7-8 states, "Above all, be strong and very courageous. Be careful to observe all the law that My servant Moses commanded you. Do not turn from it to the right or to the left, so that you may prosper wherever you go. This Book of the Law must not depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. For then you will prosper and succeed in all you do."

The Role of the Law

The emphasis on the Law underscores its centrality in the life of Israel and its leaders. Joshua's success is contingent upon his obedience to God's commandments, reflecting the covenantal relationship between God and His people. The Law serves as a guide for righteous living and a means to ensure God's continued presence and blessing.

Encouragement and Assurance

God's repeated exhortation to "be strong and courageous" (Joshua 1:6, 7, 9) highlights the daunting task ahead and the need for divine strength. The assurance of God's presence—"As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you" (Joshua 1:5)—provides Joshua with the confidence to lead with faith and determination.

The People's Response

Following God's commission, Joshua assumes leadership and prepares the people for the crossing of the Jordan River. The Israelites affirm their loyalty to Joshua, echoing the divine charge: "Just as we obeyed Moses in all things, so we will obey you. Only may the LORD your God be with you as He was with Moses" (Joshua 1:17).

Significance

The commissioning of Joshua signifies a new chapter in Israel's history, as they transition from a nomadic existence to establishing a nation in the land promised to their forefathers. Joshua's leadership, characterized by faithfulness to God's commands and reliance on His presence, serves as a model for spiritual leadership and trust in God's promises.