Bible Overview Joshua
Mike Ervin
Overview of the Book of Joshua
The book of Joshua recounts Israel’s conquest of Canaan under the leadership of Joshua, Moses’ successor. It details the fulfillment of God’s promises to give Israel the land, emphasizing obedience, divine guidance, and covenant faithfulness.
Authorship and Date
The book is traditionally attributed to Joshua himself, as suggested by passages like Joshua 24:26, where he records events. However, later sections, such as his death (24:29–30), were likely added by another writer, possibly Eleazar the priest or Phinehas.
Scholars date the events in Joshua to around 1400–1200 BC, depending on the dating of the Exodus. The book was likely completed during the early monarchy (before or during David’s reign) but contains material from Joshua’s lifetime.
Major Themes
1. God’s Faithfulness in Fulfilling Promises – God fulfills His covenant by giving Israel the land He swore to their ancestors (21:43–45).
2. Obedience and Blessing – Success in battle is tied to obedience to God’s commands (1:8, 7:1–26).
3. Divine Warfare – The conquest of Canaan is shown as God’s judgment against the wicked nations (Genesis 15:16; Joshua 6:17–21).
4. Leadership and Covenant Renewal – Joshua’s leadership models faithfulness, and the covenant is reaffirmed (24:14–27).
5. The Allotment of the Land – The division of Canaan among the twelve tribes underscores God’s provision (13–21).
Sequential Review of Key Chapters
1: God’s Commission to Joshua
• After Moses’ death, God commands Joshua to be strong and courageous, promising His presence.
• The importance of meditating on the Law for success (1:8).
2: Rahab and the Spies
• Rahab, a Canaanite prostitute, protects Israelite spies in Jericho, demonstrating faith in Israel’s God.
3–4: Crossing the Jordan River
• Israel miraculously crosses the Jordan as the priests carry the Ark of the Covenant.
• Twelve stones are set up as a memorial.
5: Covenant Renewal Before Battle
• Israel’s males are circumcised, reaffirming the covenant.
• Joshua encounters the Commander of the Lord’s Army, signifying divine leadership in battle.
6: The Fall of Jericho
• The walls of Jericho fall after Israel marches around them for seven days.
• Rahab and her family are spared.
7: The Sin of Achan and Defeat at Ai
• Achan’s secret sin (stealing from Jericho’s spoils) leads to Israel’s defeat at Ai.
• After Achan’s execution, Israel regains victory.
8: Victory at Ai and Covenant Renewal at Mount Ebal
• Ai is conquered through military strategy.
• Joshua reads the Book of the Law to the people.
9: The Gibeonite Deception
• The Gibeonites trick Israel into making a peace treaty.
• Israel honors the oath despite the deception.
10: The Sun Stands Still and Southern Conquest
• Joshua prays, and the sun stands still to allow a full victory.
• Five Amorite kings are defeated.
11: The Northern Conquests
• Joshua defeats a coalition of northern kings, securing most of Canaan.
12: Summary of Conquests
• A list of defeated kings, showing God’s faithfulness in giving Israel the land.
13–21: Division of the Land
• The land is allotted to the twelve tribes.
• The Levites receive cities rather than land.
• The Cities of Refuge (20) and Levitical Cities (21) are designated.
22: The Eastern Tribes’ Altar Dispute
• The tribes east of the Jordan build an altar, causing tension but reaffirming their loyalty to God.
23–24: Joshua’s Final Words and Covenant Renewal
• Joshua urges Israel to remain faithful and avoid idolatry.
• The famous declaration: “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord” (24:15).
• Joshua dies at age 110, marking the end of an era.
Conclusion
The book of Joshua demonstrates God’s faithfulness in fulfilling His promises while emphasizing the importance of obedience and covenant loyalty. It sets the stage for Israel’s life in the land and serves as a call to faithfulness for future generations.