Deuteronomy 31:23

Then the LORD commissioned Joshua son of Nun and said, "Be strong and courageous, for you will bring the Israelites into the land that I swore to give them, and I will be with you."

Study Bible

Then the LORD commissioned
The Hebrew word for "commissioned" is "צִוָּה" (tsavah), which means to command or appoint. This is a divine appointment, indicating that Joshua's leadership is not merely a human decision but a divine mandate. In the context of Israel's history, this commissioning is significant as it marks the transition of leadership from Moses to Joshua, ensuring continuity in God's plan for His people. The act of commissioning by the LORD Himself underscores the sacredness and authority of Joshua's new role.

Joshua son of Nun
Joshua, whose name in Hebrew is "יְהוֹשֻׁעַ" (Yehoshua), means "The LORD is salvation." This name is prophetic of his role in leading the Israelites into the Promised Land, a type of salvation and rest. Joshua is the son of Nun, from the tribe of Ephraim, and has been Moses' assistant and a faithful spy. His background and experiences have prepared him for this moment, highlighting the importance of mentorship and preparation in leadership.

and said, 'Be strong and courageous
The phrase "Be strong and courageous" is a recurring exhortation in the commissioning of Joshua (see also Joshua 1:6-9). The Hebrew words "חֲזַק" (chazaq) for "strong" and "אַמֵּץ" (amats) for "courageous" convey a sense of inner fortitude and resolve. This command is not just about physical strength but also about moral and spiritual resilience. In the face of daunting challenges, Joshua is reminded that his strength comes from the LORD, who empowers and sustains His servants.

for you will bring the Israelites
The task set before Joshua is clear: to lead the Israelites into the land. This phrase emphasizes the role of Joshua as a shepherd and guide for God's people. It is a continuation of the mission that began with Abraham and was carried through Moses. Joshua's leadership is pivotal in fulfilling God's promises, and it requires obedience, faith, and reliance on God's guidance.

into the land I swore to give them
The land is a central theme in the covenantal promises of God to the patriarchs. The phrase "I swore to give them" refers to the Abrahamic covenant, where God promised the land of Canaan to Abraham's descendants (Genesis 15:18-21). This promise is not just about physical territory but also about a place where God's people can live in relationship with Him, fulfilling their calling as a holy nation. The fulfillment of this promise through Joshua is a testament to God's faithfulness and sovereignty.

and I will be with you
The assurance "I will be with you" is the ultimate source of Joshua's strength and courage. This promise of God's presence is foundational throughout Scripture, echoing God's assurance to Moses (Exodus 3:12) and later to the disciples of Jesus (Matthew 28:20). It signifies God's personal involvement and support in the mission. For Joshua, this means that he is not alone in his leadership; God's presence guarantees success and guidance, reinforcing the truth that divine presence is the key to overcoming fear and achieving God's purposes.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who is faithful to His promises and commands.

2. Joshua son of Nun
The appointed leader of Israel after Moses, tasked with leading the Israelites into the Promised Land.

3. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, who are on the brink of entering the Promised Land.

4. The Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which God swore to give to the descendants of Abraham as an everlasting possession.

5. Commissioning of Joshua
A pivotal event where God formally appoints Joshua as the leader to succeed Moses and lead the people into their inheritance.

Teaching Points

Divine Commissioning
God personally commissions leaders for His purposes. Just as Joshua was chosen and empowered, believers are called and equipped for their unique roles in God's kingdom.

Strength and Courage
The repeated command to be strong and courageous is a reminder that God's work often requires boldness and reliance on His strength rather than our own.

God's Faithfulness
The promise of God's presence with Joshua underscores His faithfulness to His promises. Believers can trust that God will be with them as they walk in obedience to His calling.

Leadership Transition
The transition from Moses to Joshua highlights the importance of preparing and empowering new leaders to continue God's work. Mentorship and discipleship are crucial in the body of Christ.

Entering the Promised Land
For the Israelites, entering the Promised Land was a fulfillment of God's promise. For believers, it symbolizes entering into the fullness of God's promises through faith and obedience.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the commissioning of Joshua in Deuteronomy 31:23 reflect God's faithfulness to His promises?

2. In what ways can believers today draw strength and courage from God's presence as Joshua did?

3. How does the transition of leadership from Moses to Joshua inform our understanding of mentorship and discipleship in the church?

4. What are some "Promised Lands" or areas of promise that God is calling you to step into with faith and obedience?

5. How can the assurance of God's presence, as seen in Deuteronomy 31:23, impact your daily walk and decision-making?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 1:6-9
This passage reiterates God's command to Joshua to be strong and courageous, emphasizing the importance of meditating on the Law and God's promise to be with him.

Numbers 27:18-23
This earlier passage describes the initial appointment of Joshua as Moses' successor, highlighting the laying on of hands and the transfer of leadership.

Hebrews 13:5-6
This New Testament passage echoes the promise of God's presence, encouraging believers to be content and courageous because God will never leave nor forsake them.

1 Chronicles 28:20
David's charge to Solomon mirrors God's charge to Joshua, emphasizing strength, courage, and the assurance of God's presence in fulfilling His purposes.