Joshua

I’ve spent a good part of my life thinking about things in this book, without really understanding the book as a whole.  I’ve thought about the background of this book, without carefully considering its message.  I’ve spent more time trying to understand what is not in the text than what is clearly written.  That’s true not only for Joshua, but for other portions of Scripture as well.  Thankfully I am having the opportunity now to focus on what God said.  Knowing the background certainly removes barriers to understanding and so I’m thankful for the opportunities I’ve had, but it is not a substitute for the foreground. On to the Bible reading guide I am writing for my son:

The main point of this book is to show how Israel finally took possession of the Promised Land. They had been waiting ever since God promised it to Abraham. Then they were stuck in Egypt. Then they were traveling in the wilderness. Finally, they arrive!

Notice in the battles that the Israelites hardly do any fighting at all. God fights for them!

Chapters 13-21 may seem boring to you, but they were very important to the people who were being given a special piece of land by God. Imagine as you read that you ‘re at the reading of a will and you ‘re eagerly waiting to hear what you will inherit.

Chapter 24 is important to understand before you start Judges. Joshua warns the people that if they don’t obey God, they ‘re going to get in trouble.