Topical Bible: Caleb: Brings Favorable Report

◄ Caleb: Brings Favorable Report ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Caleb, a prominent figure in the Old Testament, is best known for his role as one of the twelve spies sent by Moses to explore the land of Canaan. His account is primarily found in the books of Numbers and Joshua. Caleb, the son of Jephunneh, was from the tribe of Judah, one of the most significant tribes of Israel. His faithfulness and trust in God's promises set him apart from his contemporaries.

The Mission of the Spies

In Numbers 13, Moses, following God's command, sends twelve men to scout the land of Canaan, which God had promised to the Israelites. Caleb is chosen to represent the tribe of Judah. The spies are tasked with assessing the land's fertility, the strength of its inhabitants, and the fortifications of its cities. After forty days, they return with their report.

Caleb's Faithful Report

Upon their return, ten of the spies present a discouraging report, emphasizing the strength and size of the Canaanite cities and their inhabitants, whom they describe as giants. They express doubt about Israel's ability to conquer the land. In stark contrast, Caleb, along with Joshua, brings a favorable report. Numbers 13:30 records Caleb's words: "Then Caleb quieted the people before Moses and said, 'We must go up and take possession of the land, for we can certainly conquer it!'"

Caleb's confidence is rooted in his faith in God's promise to give the land to Israel. He does not deny the challenges but believes that with God's help, they can overcome any obstacles. His report reflects a deep trust in God's power and faithfulness.

The People's Rebellion and God's Response

Despite Caleb's encouragement, the Israelites are swayed by the negative report of the other spies. They rebel against Moses and express a desire to return to Egypt. In response, God declares that the current generation of Israelites will not enter the Promised Land, except for Caleb and Joshua, because of their faithfulness (Numbers 14:24): "But because My servant Caleb has a different spirit and has followed Me wholeheartedly, I will bring him into the land he has entered, and his descendants will inherit it."

Caleb's Inheritance

Caleb's faithfulness is rewarded when, after forty years of wandering in the wilderness, he enters the Promised Land. In Joshua 14, Caleb approaches Joshua at Gilgal to claim the inheritance promised to him by God. At the age of eighty-five, Caleb remains vigorous and requests the hill country of Hebron, which he had scouted. Joshua 14:12 records Caleb's request: "Now give me this hill country that the LORD promised me that day. You yourself heard then that the Anakites were there and their cities were large and fortified, but, the LORD helping me, I will drive them out just as he said."

Caleb's request is granted, and he successfully drives out the Anakites, securing Hebron as his inheritance. His unwavering faith and courage serve as a testament to his character and his trust in God's promises.

Legacy

Caleb's legacy is one of faith, courage, and obedience. He stands as a model of steadfastness in the face of adversity, demonstrating the blessings that come from trusting in God's promises. His account is a reminder of the importance of faithfulness and the rewards that accompany a life lived in accordance with God's will.

Nave's Topical Index

Numbers 13:26-30
And they went and came to Moses, and to Aaron, and to all the congregation of the children of Israel, to the wilderness of Paran, to Kadesh; and brought back word to them, and to all the congregation, and showed them the fruit of the land.
Nave's Topical Index

Numbers 14:6-9
And Joshua the son of Nun, and Caleb the son of Jephunneh, which were of them that searched the land, rent their clothes:
Nave's Topical Index