Calendar

THE CITIES OF THE TRIBE OF EPHRAIM
LORD’S DAY, DECEMBER 3
Joshua 16

Deuteronomy 29:29

 

“The secret things belong unto

the LORD our God…”

 

THE CITIES OF THE TRIBE OF EPHRAIM
 
The allocation done by Joshua was a contrast to the murmuring that characterised their journey from Egypt under Moses. This is explained in the way in which God led Joshua. God told him to be courageous and He would be with him wherever he went. Also, God had fulfilled His promise in chasing away the Canaanites and giving the land to Israel. In addition, the fate of the transgressors of God’s commandments (like Achan) was a reminder to Israel that they needed to obey Joshua in all things.
 
Each tribe waited patiently for their turn to receive their inheritance. The heritage of the tribe of Ephraim in relation to the prophetic blessings of Jacob was a foregone conclusion and that heritage came to their hand naturally. The utterances of Jacob were revelations and their fulfillment authenticated the truthfulness of God’s Word.
 
The cities that were given to Ephraim were among the inheritance of Manasseh. The land was divided into grazing fields, cities and villages. The cities were fortified with high walls and secured gates. These were meant to give protection to the residents. Villages were also secured though they were smaller. All the people retired to the cities at nightfall and would be out in the fields during the day. The cities and villages that were given to Ephraim were specified. In this settlement, the prophecy of Jacob was played out again. This also affirms that God’s decrees are eternal, and no man is able to change them. He has declared and He will fulfil them.
 
The children of Ephraim did not drive away the Canaanites that dwelt in Gezer. The command of God was that they were to chase away all of them. Since there is no comment about this matter, it is assumed that they might have taken the cue from Joshua and the elders of Israel who had spared the Gibeonites, and made them servants. Ephraim followed suit and put them under tribute.
 
THOUGHT: I must have discernment of sacred things in God's Word.
PRAYER: (Pray for a willing heart to answer God’s call to full-time service.)

Search