The Unfinished Task: Joshua's Later Years and the Inheritance of Tribes

In Joshua's old age, he is reminded of the task yet to be completed—conquering the remaining promised land. However, in the distribution of the conquered territories, we see God's faithfulness. The allocation of inheritances, particularly the divine inheritance for the tribe of Levi, symbolizes the unique relationship each tribe has with God.

Remaining Land and God’s Command (verses 1-7)

Despite Joshua's old age, God reminds him that much land remains to be conquered. God gives a detailed account of the territories and instructs Joshua to divide it among the Israelite tribes.

The Eastern Lands and the Inheritance of Tribes (verses 8-14)

God recounts how Moses assigned lands east of Jordan to the Reubenites, Gadites, and half of the tribe of Manasseh. The Geshurites and Maacathites who weren't driven out still live among the Israelites. The tribe of Levi receives no physical inheritance, as their portion is God Himself.

Inheritances of Reuben, Gad, and Half-Tribe of Manasseh (verses 15-33)

These verses detail the specific territories allocated to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh. Each inheritance includes cities and lands previously held by formidable rulers like Sihon and Og, signifying the breadth of Israel's victories.

This chapter tells of Joshua's twilight years and the work remaining to conquer the land promised by God to the Israelites. It discusses the inheritance given to various tribes and highlights the importance of obedience and trust in God's promises.

1. The Promised Land
2. Fulfillment of Divine Promises
3. Leadership and Responsibility
4. Obedience and Trust in God
5. Division and Inheritance1. Joshua's aging and leadership
2. Division of the Promised Land
3. Remaining territories to be conquered
4. Inheritance of tribes of Israel
5. The unique inheritance of the tribe of Levi1. Joshua
2. The LORD
3. The Philistines
4. The Geshurites
5. The Israelites
6. The Reubenites
7. The Gadites
8. The tribe of Manasseh
9. Moses
10. The tribe of Levi1. Territory of Philistines and Geshurites
2. Canaanite Territory
3. Lebanon
4. Jordan
5. Gilead
6. Bashan
7. Moab

1. When God tells Joshua he is old but there is still much work to be done, what does this say about God’s expectations for service regardless of our age or condition?

2. In your life, have you ever felt like Joshua - that you have done much, but there is still more to accomplish? How did you respond?

3. How can the idea of there being much land still to take apply to your spiritual life and goals?

4. The land yet to be conquered was described in great detail. What does this tell us about God’s knowledge of our individual challenges and tasks?

5. How can we apply the concept of the "promised land" yet to be taken in the context of unfulfilled promises or unrealized potential in our lives?

6. God divided the land among the tribes, each according to their size and need. How does this mirror God's distribution of gifts and responsibilities in the church today?

7. What can we learn from the Levites not receiving a portion of land like the other tribes, but cities to live in with pasturelands for their livestock and property?

8. In our society today, how can we relate to the Levites’ role and their lack of land inheritance?

9. God faithfully fulfilled His promise to the tribes of Israel by giving them land. How does this boost your confidence in God's promises in your life?

10. How can the varied terrains of the lands given to different tribes speak to the diversity of our individual spiritual journeys and callings?

11. Despite God's assurance, the Israelites faced the daunting task of possessing their lands. How do you face seemingly overwhelming tasks, even when you know God is with you?

12. What does the process of apportioning land among the tribes tell us about justice and equity in God's kingdom?

13. The chapter highlights that certain areas remained unconquered. What "unconquered territories" do you think exist in your spiritual life, and how can you approach them?

14. How does Joshua's leadership during the division of the land inspire you in your own leadership roles?

15. The chapter suggests the importance of everyone having a place in God's plan. How does this apply to your understanding of your role in the Christian community?

16. How does the fact that God still had work for Joshua, despite his old age, change your perspective on service in the church and community at different stages of life?

17. In the context of this chapter, how would you understand the statement: "The work of God is never done"?

18. God had a plan for every tribe in Israel. How does this help you to understand His individual plans for us?

19. In current times, how can we practice the principles of responsibility and communal living as seen in Joshua's distribution of the land?

20. Looking at the different tribes receiving their inheritance, what does this tell you about God's individual plans for each of us in terms of talents, skills, and spiritual gifts?