Bible Study on the Book of Joshua

Verses to read

• “Haven’t I commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Don’t be afraid, neither be dismayed: for Yahweh your God is with you wherever you go.”

  Joshua 1:9

• “If it seems evil to you to serve Yahweh, choose today whom you will serve... but as for me and my house, we will serve Yahweh.”

  Joshua 24:15

Who Was Joshua?

Joshua was a brave leader who served as an assistant to Moses for many years. He was one of the two spies who believed God could help Israel take the land. Because he was faithful, God chose him to be the new leader.

Joshua’s name means 'The Lord is Salvation.' This is very similar to the name Jesus. Just as Joshua led the people into their new home, Jesus leads us into a relationship with God.

Crossing the Jordan River

The first big hurdle for the people was a deep river. God told the priests to carry the Ark of the Covenant—a holy gold box—into the water. As soon as their feet touched the river, the water stopped flowing.

All the people walked across on dry ground. This miracle showed them that God was with Joshua just like He was with Moses. It taught the people to trust God’s power even when things looked impossible.

The Battle of Jericho

One of the most famous stories in this book is the fall of Jericho. Jericho was a city with giant walls. God did not tell Joshua to use ladders or rams. Instead, He told the people to march around the city for seven days.

On the last day, they shouted and blew trumpets. The walls fell down flat by God's power. This teaches us that winning life's battles comes from obeying God, even when His plan seems strange.

Dividing the Land

After many battles, the land was finally at peace. Joshua divided the land among the twelve tribes of Israel. Each family received a place to live and grow food. This was the end of their long journey from being slaves in Egypt.

God kept every single promise He made to them. The book ends with Joshua telling the people to stay faithful to God. He warned them that if they started worshiping false gods, they would lose their peace.

Common questions

What is the main message of the book of Joshua?

The main message is that God gives victory to those who trust and obey Him. It shows how the Israelites finally entered the land God promised to their ancestors.

Why did the walls of Jericho fall?

The walls fell because the people obeyed God's specific instructions and had faith. It was a miracle from God, not the result of human weapons.

Is Joshua in the Old or New Testament?

Joshua is the sixth book of the Old Testament. It follows the Pentateuch, which are the first five books written by Moses.

How long did it take to conquer the land?

It took about seven years for the Israelites to complete the main battles for the land. After the fighting, they spent time dividing the territory among the tribes.