Joshua 20:1

Then the LORD said to Joshua,

Study Bible

Then the LORD said to Joshua,

The LORD continued to guide Israel through Joshua, His appointed successor to Moses, as the tribes received their inheritances in Canaan. The command that follows establishes cities of refuge according to laws already given through Moses in Numbers 35 and Deuteronomy 19. These cities protected a person who caused an unintentional death until a proper judgment could be made, preserving both justice and the sanctity of human life. Joshua’s obedience showed that Israel’s life in the land was to be ordered by God’s righteousness, not merely by military conquest or tribal custom. As Joshua led Israel into its earthly inheritance, he also foreshadowed Jesus Christ, who brings His people into the promised rest of God and provides a true refuge for all who flee to Him in faith.

Jos 1:1 Now after the death of His servant Moses,…
Jos 4:1 When the whole nation had finished crossing the Jordan,…
Jos 13:1 Now Joshua was old and well along in years,…

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who communicates His will and guidance to His people.

2. Joshua
The leader of Israel after Moses, tasked with leading the Israelites into the Promised Land and establishing God's laws and commands.

3. Cities of Refuge
Although not mentioned directly in this verse, the context of Joshua 20 involves the establishment of cities of refuge, which were designated places for those who committed unintentional manslaughter to seek asylum.

Teaching Points

Divine Guidance
God actively communicates with His people, providing direction and instruction. We should seek His guidance in our daily lives through prayer and Scripture.

Leadership and Obedience
Joshua exemplifies faithful leadership by obeying God's commands. As believers, we are called to lead others by following God's Word and setting a godly example.

Justice and Mercy
The cities of refuge illustrate God's balance of justice and mercy. We are called to uphold justice while extending mercy and grace to others.

God's Provision
Just as God provided cities of refuge for the Israelites, He provides spiritual refuge for us in Christ. We can find safety and peace in Him amidst life's challenges.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does God's communication with Joshua in this verse reflect His relationship with His people today?

2. In what ways can we seek and discern God's guidance in our own lives?

3. How does the concept of cities of refuge illustrate the balance between justice and mercy in God's character?

4. What are some practical ways we can demonstrate both justice and mercy in our interactions with others?

5. How can the idea of Christ as our refuge provide comfort and strength in times of trouble?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 35
This chapter provides the initial instructions given by God to Moses regarding the cities of refuge, which Joshua is now implementing.

Deuteronomy 19
Offers further details on the purpose and function of the cities of refuge, emphasizing justice and mercy.

Hebrews 6
Discusses the concept of refuge in a spiritual sense, relating it to the hope we have in Christ as our refuge.