How does Joshua 13:6 emphasize God's promise to drive out the inhabitants? Setting the Scene - Joshua 13 marks a transition from active conquest to the allotment of the land. - Even though large portions remain unconquered, God instructs Joshua to divide the territory now. - Verse 6 is the hinge: it explains why Israel can receive land still occupied by enemies—because God Himself guarantees their removal. Key Phrase: “I Myself will drive out” (Joshua 13:6) - Personal involvement: “I Myself” underscores that the LORD, not Israel’s military power, is the prime mover. - Certainty: “will drive out” is a future-perfect assurance, not a possibility. - Scope: “all the inhabitants of the hill country … all the Sidonians” shows total coverage; no pocket of resistance is exempt. - Ongoing action: the promise continues until every foe is gone, echoing Exodus 23:29-30 where God drives out nations “little by little.” Certainty Emboldened by Command - “Be sure to allocate this land … just as I have commanded you” (13:6b). • Joshua must act as though victory is already accomplished. • The allotment becomes a physical sign of faith in God’s word. - God links promise and obedience: His pledge (“I Myself will drive out”) empowers Israel’s step of faith (dividing the land). Wider Biblical Echoes - Exodus 23:27-30: “I will send My terror ahead of you … I will drive them out before you little by little.” - Deuteronomy 31:3-6: “The LORD your God Himself will cross over ahead of you … He will destroy these nations.” - Joshua 1:3-5: “Every place on which the sole of your foot treads, I have given you … No one shall be able to stand against you.” • All reinforce the same theme: God’s unfailing commitment to clear the land. • Joshua 13:6 is not an isolated promise but part of a consistent, covenantal thread. Application for Today - God’s character is unchanged; His promises remain utterly reliable (Numbers 23:19). - Like Joshua, believers can act on God’s word before they see results, confident that He finishes what He starts (Philippians 1:6). - Spiritual “inhabitants” (sin, fear, opposition) will be driven out by His power as we claim the inheritance secured in Christ (Colossians 1:12-14). |
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