College Press Bible Study Textbook Series
Joshua 1 - Introduction
A DIGEST OF CHAPTER 1
God's promise to Joshua. After the death of Moses, God renewed His promise to be with Joshua and exhorted Joshua to make a fearless attack on the nations of Canaan. Joshua was especially instructed to follow the commandments written in the Law of Moses. This is a substantiation of the fact that the Law was written by Moses and was available for Joshua's study.
Joshua's instruction to the people, Joshua immediately gave directions to the people to prepare them for crossing the Jordan River. He reminded the eastern tribes of the conditions under which they were to take possession of the land east of the Jordan. The tribes then renewed their pledges of loyalty to Moses-' successor.
LESSONS FOR LEARNING
1.
Great dangers call for great courage. The land of Canaan had presented great challenges to the people of Israel. Ten of the spies who had gone through it were afraid to attack the people. Only Joshua and Caleb thought that God would see them through to victory. The death of Moses was a sad event for the people, and the faint of heart may have been afraid to launch the attack. God encouraged Joshua, and he courageously led the people.
2.
A light for the path. The Psalmist said: Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path (Psalms 119:107). God told Joshua to do everything according to the Law, which Moses, His servant, had commanded him. He said, Turn not to the right hand or to the left (Joshua 1:7). He also declared, This book of the Law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do all that is written therein (Joshua 1:8). The instructions which God gave to Joshua are good for Christian soldiers to follow today.
3.
God's leaders command respect. God has never left His people without proper leadership. After Moses died, He raised up Joshua to be their captain. After the days of Joshua, He raised up judges until the time of the kings. In these last days He has turned our eyes toward His Son, and He has provided leaders in the churchelders and deacons. God's people prosper when they have good leadership and when they give the proper respect to their duly appointed leaders.
TEN QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER 1
1.
What was the normal period of mourning for a deceased person?
2.
What was Moses-' title in Scripture?
3.
What was Joshua's title in Scripture?
4.
Was Joshua given an unconditional promise of God's blessings?
5.
Did Joshua have any of the written Word of God to guide him?
6.
Did Joshua have any subordinate officers to help him?
7.
Were the people still receiving manna from heaven when Joshua became their leader?
8.
Who were the eastern tribes?
9.
What kings had formerly dominated the land east of Jordan?
10.
Who was Israel's high priest when Joshua was made leader of the people?