How does Joshua 2:10 demonstrate God's power over Israel's enemies? Verse in Focus “For we have heard how the LORD dried up the waters of the Red Sea before you when you came out of Egypt, and what you did to Sihon and Og, the two Amorite kings across the Jordan, whom you completely destroyed.” (Joshua 2:10) Backdrop: Canaanites Listening to God’s Headlines • Rahab’s words reveal an enemy nation that has been keeping tabs on Israel— and on Israel’s God. • Long before Israel crosses the Jordan, news of God’s past victories has already broken the morale of Jericho (cf. Joshua 2:11). • Joshua 2:10 functions as a “greatest-hits” summary of Yahweh’s interventions, reminding us that every conquest begins with God, not with Israel’s military skill. Power Displayed at the Red Sea • Exodus 14:21-31 records a miracle that no human strategy could pull off: “the LORD drove the sea back” and Israel walked “through the midst of the sea on dry ground.” • God defeats Egypt—the superpower of the age—using nature itself as His weapon. • Psalm 136:13-15 celebrates this same act, underscoring that His “faithful love endures forever.” • The Red Sea event shows that no geographic barrier or imperial force can block God’s plan. Power Displayed Against Sihon and Og • Numbers 21:21-35 and Deuteronomy 2:24-3:11 chronicle Israel’s victories over two Amorite kings who controlled strategic territory east of the Jordan. • Sihon had refused passage to Israel; Og ruled over Bashan and was renowned for his massive iron bed (Deuteronomy 3:11)—a detail that spotlights human intimidation versus divine supremacy. • Psalm 135:10-12 recalls these defeats as exemplars of God’s “mighty acts,” proving He crushes opposition regardless of size or reputation. • Both kings were “completely destroyed,” a fulfillment of God’s covenant promise in Genesis 15:18-21. Three Themes That Showcase God’s Power Over Israel’s Enemies 1. Supernatural Control: God manipulates creation itself to safeguard His people. 2. Unmatched Military Authority: Even fortified kings and armies fall swiftly when God decrees it. 3. Totality of Victory: “Completely destroyed” (ḥērem) signals that God’s triumph leaves no question marks or unfinished business. Ripple Effects in Jericho • Joshua 2:11: “When we heard it, our hearts melted and everyone’s courage failed because of you, for the LORD your God is God in heaven above and on earth below.” • Fear among Canaan’s inhabitants proves the victories of Exodus and the wilderness were not isolated; they were testimonies that traveled and softened enemy defenses before Israel arrived. • God’s reputation serves as psychological warfare, securing victory before a single arrow is loosed. Takeaway Truths for Us Today • God’s past acts are not dusty history; they are living proof that He actively dismantles obstacles to His promises (Psalm 44:1-3). • The same God who split seas and toppled kings still rules “in heaven above and on earth below” (Joshua 2:11). • Confidence flows from rehearsing His record: what He has done guarantees what He will do (Romans 8:31). |
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