JOSHUA 21

THE LEVITES GIVEN LAND + PROMISES OF GOD FULFILLED

Because the Levites would not receive a land inheritance, they are divided up among the tribes and reside in towns with land for their livestock. God instructed Moses to make sure the Levites were taken care of, and Joshua follows this instruction as well (Numbers 35).

God’s promise that the Israelites would overthrow the Canaanites and reside in Canaan is fulfilled. Everything that God promised the Israelites has come to pass!

Joshua 21:45 - Not one word of all the good promises that the Lord had made to the house of Israel had failed; all came to pass.

JOSHUA 22

THE EASTERN TRIBES RETURN HOME BUT REMAIN UNITED WITH THE ISRAELITES

The tribes who wanted to live East of the Jordan River (Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh) return to their land after all of Canaan had been divided. Before they leave, Joshua reminds them to love God with all their heart and soul. Joshua understands the importance and priority of this command, which is later included in all four gospel accounts (Matthew 22:37, Mark 12:33 Luke 12:30, Luke 10:27).

Once they arrive to their divided land, they built an altar as a reminder of unity between their tribes and the other tribes. Although they are divided by the river, the Israelites are one people group and serve the same God.

Upon seeing the altar, the other Israelites are alarmed, thinking it was an idol. The tribes East of the Jordan explain their purpose for the altar and reassure them it was not to be worshiped.

JOSHUA 23

JOSHUA CHALLENGES THE LEADERS OF ISRAEL TO REMAIN FAITHFUL

Many years later, Joshua leaves his final words of wisdom with the Israelite leaders, encouraging them to obey God and cling to His word. Joshua gives the Israelites hope for God’s continued faithfulness, reminding them that God has kept His promises.

Joshua also warns against nations who worship false gods and idols, knowing the Israelites will face opposition from faithless nations. Aware that the Israelites will be removed from the land if they break God’s law, Joshua urges them to remain steadfast.

JOSHUA 24

THE ISRAELITES CHOOSE TO FOLLOW GOD + RENEW THEIR COVENANT

Joshua reminds the Israelites of the covenant they have made to follow God’s law. Calling them to make a choice, Joshua questions if the Israelites will choose to worship God or abandon their faith. The Israelites choose to worship God and renew their covenant promise.

After Joshua dies, he is buried in the town of Timnath-serah, where he previously resided. The Israelites continue to be faithful and follow the example established by Joshua.