Joshua 3:10

He continued, "This is how you will know that the living God is among you and that He will surely drive out before you the Canaanites, Hittites, Hivites, Perizzites, Girgashites, Amorites, and Jebusites.

Study Bible

This is how you will know
This phrase introduces a divine assurance to the Israelites. The Hebrew root for "know" is יָדַע (yada), which implies an intimate understanding or recognition. In the context of the Israelites, it signifies a deep, experiential knowledge of God's presence and power. Historically, the Israelites had witnessed God's miracles, but this moment was to be a personal confirmation of His continued faithfulness and guidance as they prepared to enter the Promised Land.

that the living God
The term "living God" contrasts with the lifeless idols worshiped by surrounding nations. The Hebrew word for "living" is חַי (chai), emphasizing God's active, dynamic presence. This phrase reassures the Israelites that their God is not only alive but actively involved in their lives. It serves as a reminder of God's eternal nature and His ability to intervene in human history, as He had done in Egypt and throughout their wilderness journey.

is among you
The phrase "is among you" underscores God's immanence, His presence with His people. The Hebrew word בְּקֶרֶב (beqerev) means "in the midst of." This assurance of God's presence was crucial for the Israelites as they faced the daunting task of conquering Canaan. It echoes God's promise to Moses in Exodus 33:14, "My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest." This presence is a source of comfort and strength, affirming that they are not alone in their endeavors.

and that He will surely drive out
The certainty of God's action is emphasized by the word "surely." The Hebrew root for "drive out" is יָרַשׁ (yarash), which means to dispossess or take possession. This promise of divine intervention assures the Israelites of victory over the inhabitants of the land. It reflects God's covenant promise to Abraham in Genesis 15:18-21, where He pledged to give his descendants the land of Canaan.

before you the Canaanites, Hittites, Hivites, Perizzites, Girgashites, Amorites, and Jebusites
These seven nations represent the formidable opposition the Israelites would face in Canaan. Each group had its own established culture and military strength. The mention of these specific nations highlights the magnitude of the task ahead and the miraculous nature of the promised victory. Historically, these nations were known for their fortified cities and advanced warfare, making the promise of their defeat a testament to God's power. The listing of these nations also serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness to His promises, as He had foretold their displacement in Exodus 23:23. This assurance would inspire confidence and courage among the Israelites as they prepared to enter the land God had promised them.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The leader of the Israelites after Moses, tasked with leading them into the Promised Land.

2. The Living God
Refers to Yahweh, emphasizing His active presence and power among His people.

3. The Canaanites, Hittites, Hivites, Perizzites, Girgashites, Amorites, and Jebusites
The seven nations inhabiting the Promised Land, representing obstacles to Israel's inheritance.

4. The Promised Land
The land of Canaan, promised by God to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

5. The Jordan River
The river the Israelites must cross to enter the Promised Land, symbolizing a barrier to their divine inheritance.

Teaching Points

God's Active Presence
The term "living God" underscores that God is not distant or inactive but is dynamically involved in the lives of His people. Believers today can trust in God's active presence in their lives, guiding and empowering them.

Assurance of Victory
Just as God assured Israel of victory over formidable nations, Christians can be confident in overcoming spiritual battles through faith in God's promises.

Faith and Obedience
The Israelites' success depended on their faith and obedience to God's commands. Similarly, believers are called to trust and obey God, even when facing daunting challenges.

God's Faithfulness to His Promises
The fulfillment of God's promise to drive out the nations before Israel is a testament to His faithfulness. Christians can rely on God's promises, knowing He is faithful to fulfill them.

Spiritual Inheritance
The Promised Land symbolizes the spiritual inheritance believers have in Christ. Christians are encouraged to pursue their spiritual inheritance with the same determination and faith as the Israelites.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of the "living God" in Joshua 3:10 encourage you in your daily walk with God?

2. What obstacles in your life resemble the nations mentioned in Joshua 3:10, and how can you rely on God's promises to overcome them?

3. How does the assurance of God's presence in Joshua 3:10 relate to Jesus' promise in Matthew 28:20?

4. In what ways can you demonstrate faith and obedience in your current circumstances, similar to the Israelites' journey into the Promised Land?

5. How can the account of Israel's conquest of the Promised Land inspire you to pursue your spiritual inheritance in Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 3:8
God's promise to deliver the Israelites from Egypt and bring them to a land flowing with milk and honey, inhabited by the same nations mentioned in Joshua 3:10.

Deuteronomy 7:1-2
God's command to Israel to conquer these nations and not make covenants with them, emphasizing the need for obedience and reliance on God.

Hebrews 11:30
The faith of the Israelites in conquering Jericho, illustrating the power of faith in God's promises.

Psalm 42:2
The psalmist's longing for the living God, paralleling the assurance of His presence in Joshua 3:10.

Acts 14:15
Paul and Barnabas's declaration of the living God, connecting the Old Testament understanding of God's active presence to the New Testament.