Joshua 6:27

So the LORD was with Joshua, and his fame spread throughout the land.

Study Bible

So the LORD was with Joshua
This phrase emphasizes the divine presence and support that Joshua experienced throughout his leadership. The LORD's presence with Joshua is a continuation of the promise given in Joshua 1:5, where God assured Joshua that He would be with him just as He was with Moses. This divine accompaniment is a key theme in the book of Joshua, highlighting that the success of Israel's conquests was not due to military might but to God's intervention. The presence of the LORD with Joshua can be seen as a type of Christ, who is called "Immanuel," meaning "God with us" (Matthew 1:23). This reflects the broader biblical narrative of God dwelling with His people.

and his fame spread throughout the land
Joshua's fame spreading throughout the land signifies the recognition of his leadership and the victories that Israel achieved under his command. This fame was not merely due to human achievement but was a testament to the power of God working through him. The land referred to here is Canaan, the Promised Land, which was inhabited by various tribes and nations. The spread of Joshua's fame would have served as a warning to these nations of the power of Israel's God, fulfilling the fear that Rahab mentioned in Joshua 2:9-11. This also prefigures the spread of the fame of Jesus Christ, whose name and works became known throughout the regions of Judea and beyond, as seen in passages like Matthew 4:24.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The central figure in this passage, Joshua is the leader of the Israelites following Moses. He is known for his faithfulness and obedience to God, leading the Israelites into the Promised Land.

2. The LORD
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who is actively involved in the life and leadership of Joshua, ensuring the success of His people.

3. The Land
Refers to the Promised Land, Canaan, which the Israelites are in the process of conquering under Joshua's leadership.

4. Fame
The recognition and respect Joshua gains as a leader, which is attributed to the LORD's presence with him.

5. Conquest of Jericho
The immediate context of this verse is the fall of Jericho, a significant event demonstrating God's power and Joshua's leadership.

Teaching Points

Divine Presence and Success
The success of God's people is directly linked to His presence. Just as the LORD was with Joshua, ensuring his fame and success, believers today are encouraged to seek God's presence in their endeavors.

Leadership and Obedience
Joshua's leadership was marked by obedience to God's commands. Effective leadership in a Christian context requires aligning one's actions with God's will.

Witness to the Nations
Joshua's fame spreading throughout the land serves as a testimony to God's power. Believers are called to live in such a way that their lives testify to God's presence and power.

Faithfulness in Mission
The LORD's presence with Joshua underscores the importance of faithfulness in the mission God has given. Believers are encouraged to remain faithful, trusting in God's guidance and support.

God's Faithfulness to His Promises
The LORD's support of Joshua is a fulfillment of His promises. Believers can trust in God's faithfulness to His promises in their own lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the presence of the LORD with Joshua in Joshua 6:27 compare to His presence with other biblical figures, such as Moses or David?

2. In what ways can we seek and recognize God's presence in our daily lives, similar to how Joshua experienced it?

3. How does Joshua's fame and success serve as a witness to the surrounding nations, and how can our lives serve as a witness to those around us?

4. What lessons can we learn from Joshua's leadership style that can be applied to our roles in our communities and churches?

5. How does the assurance of God's presence in Joshua 6:27 encourage us in fulfilling the Great Commission as described in Matthew 28:18-20?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 33:14
This verse highlights God's promise to be with His people, similar to His presence with Joshua, ensuring success and rest.

1 Samuel 18:14
This passage describes how David, like Joshua, was successful because the LORD was with him, illustrating a pattern of divine favor leading to success.

Matthew 28:20
Jesus promises His presence with His disciples, echoing the assurance given to Joshua, emphasizing the importance of divine presence in fulfilling God's mission.