Topical Bible: Joshua: Also Called Jehoshua, and Jehoshuah, and Oshea: Exhortation of, Before his Death

◄ Joshua: Also Called Jehoshua, and Jehoshuah, and Oshea: Exhortation of, Before his Death ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Introduction:
Joshua, son of Nun, is a central figure in the Hebrew Bible, known for his leadership of the Israelites following the death of Moses. His name, originally Oshea (meaning "salvation"), was changed by Moses to Joshua (meaning "Yahweh is salvation"), signifying his divine mission. Joshua is also referred to as Jehoshua and Jehoshuah in various biblical texts. He is best known for leading the Israelites into the Promised Land and for his role in the conquest of Canaan.

Early Life and Role as Moses' Assistant:
Joshua first appears in the biblical narrative as a military leader, chosen by Moses to lead the Israelites in battle against the Amalekites (Exodus 17:9-13). He is described as Moses' assistant and is one of the twelve spies sent to explore Canaan (Numbers 13:16). Unlike the other spies, Joshua, along with Caleb, demonstrates faith in God's promise, urging the Israelites to trust in God's power to deliver the land into their hands (Numbers 14:6-9).

Leadership and Conquest of Canaan:
After Moses' death, Joshua is appointed as his successor. God commissions Joshua to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land, assuring him of His presence and urging him to be strong and courageous (Joshua 1:1-9). Under Joshua's leadership, the Israelites cross the Jordan River and begin the conquest of Canaan, starting with the miraculous fall of Jericho (Joshua 6). Joshua's military campaigns are marked by strategic brilliance and unwavering faith in God's guidance.

Division of the Land:
Following the successful conquest of key Canaanite cities, Joshua oversees the division of the land among the twelve tribes of Israel. This task is carried out with careful attention to God's instructions, ensuring that each tribe receives its allotted inheritance (Joshua 13-21). Joshua's leadership is characterized by his commitment to justice and adherence to the covenantal laws given by God through Moses.

Exhortation Before His Death:
As Joshua nears the end of his life, he gathers the Israelites to deliver a final exhortation. In this farewell address, recorded in Joshua 23 and 24, Joshua reminds the people of God's faithfulness and the importance of remaining obedient to the covenant. He warns them against idolatry and urges them to serve the Lord wholeheartedly. Joshua's words are a call to fidelity and a reminder of the blessings and consequences tied to their covenant relationship with God.

In Joshua 24:14-15 , he famously declares, "Now therefore, fear the LORD and serve Him in sincerity and truth. Cast away the gods your fathers served beyond the River and in Egypt, and serve the LORD. But if it is unpleasing in your sight to serve the LORD, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your fathers served beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you are living. As for me and my house, we will serve the LORD."

Legacy:
Joshua's legacy is one of faithfulness, courage, and leadership. His life exemplifies the rewards of trusting in God's promises and the importance of leading with integrity. Joshua's exhortation before his death serves as a timeless reminder of the need for commitment to God and the dangers of turning away from His commandments. His account is a testament to the power of faith and the fulfillment of God's promises to His people.

Nave's Topical Index

Joshua 23:1
And it came to pass a long time after that the LORD had given rest to Israel from all their enemies round about, that Joshua waxed old and stricken in age.
Nave's Topical Index

Joshua 24:1
And Joshua gathered all the tribes of Israel to Shechem, and called for the elders of Israel, and for their heads, and for their judges, and for their officers; and they presented themselves before God.
Nave's Topical Index