Joshua Old Testament Summary

Verses to read

• “Haven’t I commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Don’t be afraid. Don’t be dismayed, for Yahweh your God is with you wherever you go.”

  Joshua 1:9

• “But as for me and my house, we will serve Yahweh.”

  Joshua 24:15

Who was Joshua in the Bible?

Joshua was a brave man who served as an assistant to Moses for many years. He was one of the two spies who believed God would help the Israelites take the land. Because of his faith, God chose him to be the next leader.

God told Joshua to be strong and courageous. He promised to be with Joshua just like he was with Moses. Joshua’s job was to lead the people across the river and help them settle in their new home.

Crossing the Jordan River

The Israelites had to cross a big river to get to their new land. The water was very deep. God told the priests to carry the Ark of the Covenant into the water. The Ark was a special gold box that represented God’s presence.

As soon as their feet touched the water, the river stopped flowing. The people walked across on dry ground. This miracle showed the people that God was with Joshua and would help them win.

The Battle of Jericho

The first city the Israelites reached was Jericho. It had very tall, thick walls. God gave Joshua a strange plan to win the city. He told the army to march around the walls once a day for six days.

On the seventh day, they marched around seven times. Then the priests blew their trumpets and the people shouted. The walls fell down flat. This proved that God gives victory, not just strong weapons.

Dividing the Promised Land

After many battles, the Israelites took control of the land. Joshua divided the land among the twelve tribes of Israel. Each family received a place to live and grow food.

Joshua reminded the people that God had been very kind to them. He told them to keep following God’s laws. He warned them that if they started worshiping fake gods, they would lose the blessings God gave them.

Common questions

What is the main message of the Book of Joshua?

The main message is that God is faithful to his promises. It shows that when people trust and obey God, he gives them strength to overcome big obstacles.

How long did it take to conquer the land?

The battles lasted for several years. It was not a single event, but a long process of following God's leading to secure their new home.

Why did the walls of Jericho fall?

The walls fell because the people obeyed God's specific instructions. It was a miracle from God, not something the army did on their own.

What happened at the end of the book?

At the end, Joshua gave a famous speech asking the people to choose who they would serve. He died at a very old age after a life of serving God.