What lessons can we learn about obedience from Joshua 6:21's actions? The command carried out “ ‘At the edge of the sword they devoted to destruction everything in the city—man and woman, young and old, oxen, sheep, and donkeys.’ ” (Joshua 6:21) Context: why such a severe order? • God had already declared Canaan under judgment (Genesis 15:16). • Deuteronomy 7:2 repeats the charge: “you must devote them to complete destruction.” • Jericho was the firstfruits of the land; total devotion (ḥerem) testified that victory belonged wholly to the Lord (Joshua 6:17). Lessons on obedience drawn from Joshua 6:21 • Obedience is immediate and complete – Israel acted “at the edge of the sword,” withholding nothing. – Delayed or partial compliance would have been disobedience (contrast 1 Samuel 15:3, 9, 23). • Obedience may require difficult, even emotionally costly choices – The command touched every living thing; feelings did not override God’s explicit word. – Hebrews 11:30 links their faith to their actions: “By faith the walls of Jericho fell.” Faith expresses itself in costly obedience. • Obedience flows from trust in God’s wisdom – The people could not see all reasons for the ban, yet they trusted the One who gave it. – Proverbs 3:5–6 calls believers to lean not on their own understanding but acknowledge Him. • Obedience protects against future compromise – Removing every remnant of Jericho prevented idolatry from infiltrating Israel (Deuteronomy 20:17–18). – When Achan later kept spoils, judgment fell on the nation (Joshua 7), underscoring the danger of half-hearted compliance. • Obedience displays love for God – Jesus underscored the principle: “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments” (John 14:15). – Love is not sentiment alone; it is loyalty expressed in doing what He says. • Obedience positions God’s people for blessing – The fall of Jericho opened the door to the inheritance God promised (Joshua 21:43–45). – Continual obedience keeps believers in the flow of God’s purposes and protection (Psalm 91:1). Take-home applications • Treat every word from God as non-negotiable. • Trust His character when commands puzzle you. • Guard against the small compromises that undo larger victories. • Remember that wholehearted obedience is the truest expression of love and faith. |
    |