College Press Bible Study Textbook Series
Joshua 17 - Introduction
A DIGEST OF CHAPTER 17
Inheritance of Manasseh west. One half of the tribe of Manasseh received land east of the Jordan; but the other half was to have territory which was north of Ephraim, lying between the Mediterranean Sea and the Jordan River. Manasseh was the elder of Joseph's two sons, but he did not receive the preeminence. Ephraim was preferred above the older Manasseh when Jacob crossed his hands and gave his right-hand blessing to Ephraim and his left-hand blessing to Manasseh (Genesis 48).
The complaint of the children of Joseph. The descendants of Ephraim and Manasseh complained, saying they were a large and prosperous group of people and needed more land than was given to them. Joshua heard their complaint and offered a very suitable solution. He suggested that they develop to the fullest the land in which they were living before they asked for more. Since they had not yet fully conquered the territory, this was a challenge to the children of Joseph to set an example for the rest of the tribes by reaching the fullness of their potential.
LESSONS FOR LEARNING
1.
Neither male nor female. In Christ there is no bond or free; neither is there male or female (Galatians 3:28). Each has a role to play by nature, and a woman's soul is just as precious in the sight of God as the soul of a man. The same was ultimately true under the Old Testament dispensation. The Bible teaches that man has the preeminence, but woman's place as a help meet for him has always been respected in the eyes of God. This truth was borne out in the provisions made for men who had no sons. In such cases, their daughters inherited their land and goods.
2.
It is good for brothers to dwell together. How pleasant for brethren to dwell together in unity (Psalms 133:1). This was the cry of the psalmist, and such a condition is exemplified by the associations of Ephraim and Manasseh. They were brethren. They were both sons of Joseph. Jacob had placed his hands on both of them and adopted them as his own sons. When the inheritances of the people of Israel were assigned, Ephraim and Manasseh had lots which were next to each other. Brethren in Christ should dwell together in such peace and pleasantness as well.
3.
Stir what you have. During World War II, sugar was rationed in the United States. A preacher told about asking for a little more sugar for his coffee as he ate lunch in a restaurant. The waitress-' curt reply was, Stir what you have. This is what Joseph told Ephraim and Manasseh to do. They were complaining that they needed more land. Joshua told them to make better use of what they had. Christians should use their talents to the fullest of their ability instead of complaining because they do not have more talents.
TEN QUESTIONS ON CHAPTER 17
1.
Who was Machir?
2.
Who was Zelophehad?
3.
Where was Bashan?
4.
What was Manasseh's western border? J.
Which tribe lay south of Manasseh?
6.
What tribe lay north of Manasseh?
7.
What tribe lay east of Manasseh?
8.
What river lay between Manasseh and Ephraim, near their western borders?
9.
What did the children of Israel do to the Canaanites who lived among them?
10.
What was the name given to the mountain in the land of the children of Joseph?