What can we learn about God's justice from Joshua 7:23? Text in focus “Joshua 7:23 — ‘They took the things from the tent, brought them to Joshua and all the Israelites, and spread them out before the LORD.’” Setting the stage • Israel has just suffered defeat at Ai. • The LORD reveals that someone violated the ban on Jericho’s spoils. • Achan’s hidden plunder is discovered, carried into public view, and laid out “before the LORD.” What God’s justice looks like in this moment • Exposure of hidden sin – God sees what is concealed (Hebrews 4:13). – Even treasures buried under a tent floor cannot escape His notice. • Thorough investigation – The messengers “ran” to verify and recover the evidence; justice is not hasty, but it is diligent. • Public accountability – The items are shown “to Joshua and all the Israelites.” – Justice protects the community by making sin unmistakably clear (Numbers 32:23). • Divine centrality – The loot is “spread…out before the LORD,” underscoring that sin is ultimately against Him (Psalm 51:4). • Restitution precedes judgment – What was stolen is returned to its rightful Owner before sentencing occurs, highlighting that justice restores order before it punishes. • Communal holiness maintained – God’s covenant people cannot thrive while tolerated sin remains in the camp (1 Corinthians 5:6-7). Broader scriptural echoes • Psalm 90:8 — “You have set our iniquities before You, our secret sins in the light of Your presence.” • Proverbs 28:13 — “He who conceals his sins will not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them will find mercy.” • Galatians 6:7 — “Do not be deceived: God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.” Take-home truths for believers today • Hidden sin is temporary; God’s justice exposes it. • Transparency safeguards the community of faith. • Confession and restitution pave the way to restored fellowship. • God’s justice is never detached from His holiness; He deals with sin so His people can walk in blessing. |
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