RPG Adults
THE UNITY OF THE BOOK AND TIME
MONDAY, OCTOBER 2
Joshua 1:1-4
Colossians 3:14-17
“And whatsoever ye do
in word or deed, do all
in the name of the Lord Jesus…”
THE UNITY OF THE BOOK AND TIME
The book of Joshua reflects unity of style and organisation, suggesting single authorship. Joshua, an assistant to Moses, was faithful and courageous. He was dedicated to God and His Word. He met all the required qualifications to be a successor of Moses. He learned from Moses, even in putting his life events in writing, as led by the Spirit. He might not have imagined the far-reaching importance of his writing in blessing future generations.
The Time of Joshua: Since Joshua lived at the time of the Exodus, the date of the book would not be far from the dates of those of Moses. The events recorded in this book can be divided according to three geographical settings. The first is by River Jordan (Joshua 1-5). The second is in the land of Canaan (Joshua 6:1-13:7). The third is the twelve tribes on both sides of River Jordan (Joshua 13:8-24:33). In the first setting, Joshua took over the leadership from Moses. His first task was to lead Israel in crossing River Jordan and preparation for war west of River Jordan.
Joshua was a military strategist as much as God had granted him that wisdom. When he was incapacitated, God was there for him. His campaign began in central Canaan, then south and finally north. Every victory and method used in the conquest is recorded in the book. When the portion of land was reclaimed, Joshua divided it amongst the twelve tribes of Israel mainly by casting lots. The tribes of Reuben, Gad and the half tribe of Manasseh had already received their portion east of River Jordan as allowed by God upon their request. When he had completed the division of the land, he was also tasked with assigning six cities of refuge, three on each side of River Jordan. The Levites who did not have their own inheritance were given forty-eight cities among all the tribes. This was done according to the commandment of God. The date of these events covers about fifteen years from 1405 BC to 1390 BC. Joshua died in that final year at the age of 110.
THOUGHT: When God is in command, all things are sure.
PRAYER: Father, grant me wisdom and courage as those of Joshua.