Explore the Bible Learner Guide - Summer 2012 sample
An In-Depth Book-by-Book Study of the Bible
Joshua, Judges, Ruth:
Character at the Crossroad
LEARNER GUIDE LARGE PRINT t SUMMER 2012
Meet the Writer A D U LT LEARNER GUIDE This periodical is designed for adults using the Explore the Bible Series.
V O LU M E 5, N U M B E R 4
SUMMER 2012
PRODUCTION & MINISTRY TEAM David Briscoe Content Editor Pat Phillips Production Editor Dawn Rodgers Wyse Graphic Designer Darin Clark Graphic Design Specialist Alan Raughton Lead Adult Ministry Specialist David Apple Adult Ministry Specialist Dwayne McCrary Editorial Project Leader Send questions/comments to Editor, Explore the Bible: Adult Learner Guide One LifeWay Plaza Nashville, TN 37234-0175 Or make comments on the Web at www.lifeway.com MANAGEMENT PERSONNEL Bret Robbe, Director Leadership and Adult Publishing Ken Braddy, Debbie Johnson, Ron Keck Managing Directors Leadership and Adult Publishing David Francis, Director Sunday School Bill Craig, Director Leadership and Adult Ministry Printed in the United States of America PHOTO CREDITS: Cover Photo: Getty Images Interior Photos: iStock Photo.com
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RICK EZELL has a passion for teaching, preaching, and writing about God’s Word. He became a Christ-follower early in life, receiving Jesus as his Savior at age nine. Seven years later he experienced God’s call to ministry, and he continues to fulfill that calling to this day. Since 2006, he has served as the senior pastor of First Baptist Church in Greer, South Carolina. FBC Greer offers a vibrant Sunday School smallgroup ministry for all ages called “impactU.” Rick extends his Bible-teaching ministry through prolific writing. His numerous e-books include Defining Moments, Hitting a Moving Target, and 7 Habits of Highly Defective People. He also has written over 500 articles and continues to provide a weekly online devotional called “One-Minute Uplift.” We welcome Rick as a writer for Explore the Bible Learner Guide. He demonstrates the refreshing, God-given gift of the pastor-teacher.
Explore the Bible: Adult Learner Guide (Large Print) (ISSN 15563731) is published quarterly by LifeWay Christian Resources of the Southern Baptist Convention, One LifeWay Plaza, Nashville, TN 37234, Thom S. Rainer, President. © Copyright 2012 LifeWay Christian Resources of the Southern Baptist Convention. For ordering or inquiries visit www.lifeway.com, or write LifeWay Church Resources Customer Service, One LifeWay Plaza, Nashville, TN 37234-0113. For subscriptions or subscription address changes, e-mail [email protected], fax 615.251.5818, or write to the above address. For bulk shipments mailed quarterly to one address, e-mail [email protected], fax 615.251.5933, or write to the above address. We believe that the Bible has God for its author; salvation for its end; and truth, without any mixture of error, for its matter and that all Scripture is totally true and trustworthy. The 2000 statement of The Baptist Faith and Message is our doctrinal guideline. Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holman Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1999, 2000, 2002, 2003, 2009 by Holman Bible Publishers®. Used by permission. Holman Standard Christian Bible®, Holman CSB®, and HCSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers. The suggestions for pronouncing Bible names are from That’s Easy for You to Say: Your Quick Guide to Pronouncing Bible Names by W. Murray Severance, Copyright © 1997 by Broadman & Holman Publishers. Used by permission.
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table of contentsƫƩƫSUMMER 2012 Features:
The ABCs of Salvation Word Wise Daily Bible Readings Introduction to Joshua, Judges, Ruth Unit Overviews New Groups Reaching the Community
2 6 7 8 10-11 19
UNIT 1:
PROFILE IN COURAGE JOSH. 1:124:33
June 3
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June 10
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June 17
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June 24
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July 1
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44
UNIT 2:
PEOPLE IN CRISIS JUDG. 1:121:25
July 8
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July 15
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July 22
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July 29
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August 5
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August 12 5IF%PNJOP&õFDUt+VEHFTo UNIT 3:
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PORTRAIT OF COMMITMENT RUTH 1:14:22
August 19 &YQSFTTJOH-PWFt3VUIo
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August 26 &NCSBDJOH3FTQPOTJCJMJUJFTt3VUIo
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* Evangelistic Lesson
5
UNIT 1 PROFILE IN COURAGE
Week of June 3
The Leadership Dare
OK, I need to be a leader. but what if I fail? Background Passage: Joshua 1:1-18 Lesson Passages: Joshua 1:1-11,16-18 Biblical Truth: Believers demonstrate courage by accepting leadership responsibilities to which the Lord has called them. Life Goal: To help you dare to accept leadership responsibilities in your church 12
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J
im was asked to direct the men’s ministry at his church. Through this ministry, the church had touched the lives of hundreds of men and their families. People came to faith in Christ. Long-time believers found a fresh spiritual vibrancy. However, Jim realized that he would be stepping into some big shoes. The previous ministry leader, a friend of Jim’s and a man who oozed personality, Christlike charisma, and ability, suddenly had contracted a debilitating illness. Jim was unsure if he could match his friend’s level of success. Succeeding a distinguished and godly leader can be a huge challenge. The temptation is to shy away from taking on such a challenge. However, while God’s workers may resign, relocate, retire, or die, God’s work continues. In today’s Bible passage, we will discover how Joshua stepped up after Moses’ death to prepare God’s people to enter the promised land. His story can help you dare to accept a leadership role in your church.
r
For further study on Christian leadership, read Jesus on Leadership by Gene Wilkes. Available at www.lifeway. com.
Study Questions 1. What was Joshua’s first task as leader after Moses’ death? (1:4) 2. What was God’s repeated exhortation to Joshua as a leader? (1:6,7,9) 3. Whom did Joshua involve in the task of getting the people prepared to cross the Jordan River? (1:10) 4. How did the officers and people respond to Joshua’s leadership? (1:18)
BACKGROUND PASSAGE OVERVIEW
Rely on the Lord’s Promise (Josh. 1:1-5a)—After Moses’ death, the Lord instructed Joshua to prepare the people for entering the promised land. Rely on the Lord’s Presence (Josh. 1:5b-9)—The Lord reassured Joshua by challenging him to show courage and to carefully follow divine instructions. Respond with Obedience (Josh. 1:10-15)—Joshua obeyed the Lord’s message and prepared the people for crossing the Jordan River and for fighting the battles that were ahead. Joshua reminded the tribes planning to settle east of the river of their commitment to help with the invasion. Receive Affirmation (Josh. 1:16-18)—The tribes restated their commitment and prayed for Joshua, encouraging him to be a strong and courageous leader.
Wherever a diamond (◆) appears before a word, see page 6 for pronunciation help and quick definitions.
THE LEADERSHIP DARE
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Rely on the Lord’s Promise (Josh. 1:1-5a) HCSB
1 After the death of Moses the LORD’s servant, the LORD spoke to Joshua son of Nun, who had served Moses: 2 “Moses My servant is dead. Now you and all the people prepare to cross over the Jordan to the land I am giving the Israelites. 3 I have given you every place where the sole of your foot treads, just as I promised Moses. 4 Your territory will be from the wilderness and Lebanon to the great ◆Euphrates River—all the land of the ◆Hittites—and west to the Mediterranean Sea. 5a No one will be able to stand against you as long as you live.
? What leadership needs do you see presently in your family? In your church? (1:2)
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KJV 1 Now after the death of Moses the servant of the LORD it came to pass, that the LORD spake unto Joshua the son of Nun, Moses’ minister, saying, 2 Moses my servant is dead; now therefore arise, go over this Jordan, thou, and all this people, unto the land which I do give to them, even to the children of Israel. 3 Every place that the sole of your foot shall tread upon, that have I given unto you, as I said unto Moses. 4 From the wilderness and this Lebanon even unto the great river, the river ◆Euphrates, all the land of the ◆Hittites, and unto the great sea toward the going down of the sun, shall be your coast. 5a There shall not any man be able to stand before thee all the days of thy life:
Verse 1. Moses was called the Lord’s servant because he was the great lawgiver and leader of the Israelite people. The title implied faithful obedience to God while leading His people. The Lord refers to God’s personal name Yahweh, the name that reveals His character, eternal nature, and enduring faithfulness. Joshua—his name means Yahweh saves—had served as Moses’ closest aide and lieutenant. Previously Joshua had served among the 12 scouts who first spied out the land of Canaan (see Num. 13:8, where he is referred to as Hoshea). Of the twelve, only he and Caleb had urged the people to show faith in God by taking possession of the land despite the dangers involved. Now the primary leadership role fell squarely on Joshua’s shoulders. Could he succeed? Not without God’s help and guidance! Verse 2. God’s encouragement was meant for both Joshua and all the people. ? The time of mourning for Moses was over (see Deut. 34:8). The people needed to get ready for taking possession of the promised land. (See Study Question 1.) Verse 3. God reminded Joshua that He had promised this land to them as Abraham’s descendants (see Gen. 12:7). The verb have given emphasizes that in God’s eyes the transaction was
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complete. What remained was for the Israelites to move forward in faith to receive God’s gift. This fact, of course, did not diminish the courage or obedience needed. The phrase where the sole of your foot treads implies movement. In other words, the people would walk with God, go where He directed, do as He instructed, and fight their battles under His banner. As they did, God would fulfill His promises. This plan is a fitting reminder that God’s people are to live on His promises, not on full explanations. Verse 4. God reminded Joshua of the promised land’s geographical scope. (See the map on p. 115 for reference.) The term wilderness referred to the land’s southern border, Lebanon its northern limit, the ◆Euphrates River its eastern limit, and the Mediterranean Sea its western border. Interestingly, the Israelites never possessed this full gift in all its history. Was God’s promise faulty? No. The people disobeyed and faltered in faith time after time. We as God’s people today experience similar limitations because our faith falls far short of God’s generous desires to bless. Verse 5a. Then God promised Joshua lifelong victory. If the people moved forward with faith in God’s promise, no enemy could stand against them. The battles would be fought, but the outcome already was settled. What an exciting way to live and serve God!
Rely on the Lord’s Presence (Josh. 1:5b-9) HCSB 5b I will be with you, just as I was with Moses. I will not leave you or forsake you. 6 “Be strong and courageous, for you will distribute the land I swore to their fathers to give them as an inheritance. 7 Above all, be strong and very courageous to carefully observe the whole instruction My servant Moses commanded you. Do not turn from it to the right or the left, so that you will have success wherever you go. 8 This book of instruction must not depart from your mouth; you are to recite it day and night so that you may carefully observe everything written in it. For then you will prosper and succeed in whatever you do. 9 Haven’t I commanded you: be strong
KJV 5b as I was with Moses, so I will be with thee: I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee. 6 Be strong and of a good courage: for unto this people shalt thou divide for an inheritance the land, which I sware unto their fathers to give them. 7 Only be thou strong and very courageous, that thou mayest observe to do according to all the law, which Moses my servant commanded thee: turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that thou mayest prosper whithersoever thou goest. 8 This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: THE LEADERSHIP DARE
15
and courageous? Do no be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”
KEY DOCTRINE: HOLY SPIRIT The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of God, the third Person of the Holy Trinity. His presence in the Christian is the guarantee that God will bring the believer into the fullness of the stature of Christ. (See also Rom. 8:11; Eph. 1:13-14; 1 John 4:13.)
? Why is studying and knowing God’s Word critical to leadership success? How do the Scriptures help build a leader’s strength and courage? (1:9)
Verse 5b. God further assured Joshua that he, like Moses, could count on God’s ongoing presence. This reality would be the secret of Joshua’s success. Moses was no longer present with the Israelites, but God was. As Christians, we too can take heart in the promise of God’s presence in the Holy Spirit (see John 14:16-17). Verse 6. Here is the first of three times in the span of four verses that God exhorted Joshua to be strong and courageous. (See Study Question 2.) Perhaps the new leader was feeling the pressures and risks of leadership. If so, God was there to encourage him. God assured the commander that he was the one who would distribute the land. This promise was tantamount to a guarantee that Joshua and the Israelites would defeat their enemies and possess the land. Verses 7-8. Another key to Joshua’s success was revealed: obedience to God’s guidance. Joshua needed to carefully observe the whole instruction. He was to personally obey God’s law given through Moses as well as to lead the people to faithfully follow it. The phrase recite it means to meditate on, to constantly think about and discuss God’s Word. The promised result of obedience was that Joshua and the Israelites would prosper and succeed. Interestingly, these two terms almost never refer to financial accomplishments in the Old Testament. Rather, they point to the completion of a God-given mission in life. Verse 9. God again commanded Joshua to be strong and courageous. Courage in leadership is more a matter of obedience than emotion. Faith is taking bold steps of obedience based on confidence in God’s presence and His Word. ?
Respond with Obedience (Josh. 1:10-11)
HCSB 10 Then Joshua commanded the officers of the people: 11 “Go through the camp 16
for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success. 9 Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.
KJV 10 Then Joshua commanded the officers of the people, saying, 11 Pass through the
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and tell the people, ‘Get provisions ready for yourselves, for within three days you will be crossing the Jordan to go in and take possession of the land the Lord your God is giving you to inherit.’ ”
host, and command the people, saying, Prepare you victuals; for within three days ye shall pass over this Jordan, to go in to possess the land, which the Lord your God giveth you to possess it.
Verse 10. Effective leaders organize wisely and use the organization to equip, motivate, and mobilize others. Joshua relayed God’s directive to the officers of the people. These leaders would be responsible for instructing the groups of people under their charge. (See Study Question 3.) Verse 11. Joshua’s orders at this point did not involve laying out a military strategy but rather preparing the people to break camp and to face their first challenge: crossing the Jordan River. Getting provisions ready meant that once the people started moving into the land they might not be able to set up camp again for a number of days. The phrase within three days probably refers to the time frame of preparation. That is, Joshua would wait no longer than that before giving the command to march. Important lessons emerge from these verses for Christian leaders and followers alike. First, Christian leaders are wise to equip, motivate, and involve others in carrying out God’s work. The task is too big and too important to do otherwise. Second, Christian leaders motivate God’s people to remain alert. We need to live in such a way that we’re always ready to do what God asks of us (see Matt. 24:44). Third, while Christians often want to know up front God’s full, detailed plan for their lives, God demands that His people follow Him one step, one day, one battle at a time. Oftentimes it’s our faithfulness in what we might think of as “little things” that God uses in preparing us for greater service. ?
? How have you seen church leaders use organization to involve more people in Christian service? How are you involved? (1:11)
Receive Affirmation (Josh. 1:16-18) HCSB 16 They answered Joshua, “Everything you have commanded us we will do, and everywhere you send us we will go. 17 We will obey you, just as we obeyed Moses in everything. And may the LORD your God be with you, as He was with Moses. 18 Anyone who rebels against your order
KJV 16 And they answered Joshua, saying, All that thou commandest us we will do, and whithersoever thou sendest us, we will go. 17 According as we hearkened unto Moses in all things, so will we hearken unto thee: only the LORD thy God be with thee, as he was with Moses. 18 Whosoever he THE LEADERSHIP DARE
17
and does not obey your words in all that you command him, will be put to death. Above all, be strong and courageous!”
STUDY QUESTION ANSWERS 1. Joshua’s first task was to prepare the people to cross the Jordan River. 2. Joshua was to be strong and courageous. 3. Joshua involved the officers of the people. 4. They affirmed Joshua’s leadership.
be that doth rebel against thy commandment, and will not hearken unto thy words in all that thou commandest him, he shall be put to death: only be strong and of a good courage.
Verse 16. Possessing the promised land would require everyone’s participation, including the tribes that planned to settle on the eastern side of the Jordan River (see Josh. 1:12-15). The pronoun they in this verse likely refers to the officers representing all the people (see 1:10). These leaders voiced an enthusiastic affirmation of Joshua’s leadership. (See Study Question 4.) Verse 17. The people were willing to follow Joshua, just as they had followed Moses. In the ancient near east, a change of leadership typically involved taking a pledge of loyalty to the new leader. Now the people pledged their obedience to Joshua. They prayed for Joshua in his new role that God would be with him. Joshua would need God’s presence to succeed as their leader. Verse 18. The officers were serious about their commitment to follow Joshua’s orders, imposing the threat of death on anyone who disobeyed. They took Joshua’s leadership and their responsibility seriously. They saw obedience as a matter of life or death. Once again the exhortation echoed—this time from the people’s representatives—that Joshua be strong and courageous.
W H AT N OW ? M Y M I S S I O N How will you put into action this week what you’ve learned from God’s Word about leadership? t%BSFUPBDDFQUMFBEFSTIJQSFTQPOTJbilities by relying on God’s promises. t$PVOUPO(PETJOEXFMMJOH FNQPXFSJOH presence and help through the Holy Spirit. t%FDJEFUIBUPCFEJFODFUP(PEXJMMCFZPVS basic approach in being a leader. t#FUIBOLGVMGPSUIFBöSNBUJPOPGMFBEFSTIJQZPVSFDFJWFGSPNPUIFS$ISJTUJBOT
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Joshua, Judges, Ruth:
Character at the Crossroad
LEARNER GUIDE LARGE PRINT t SUMMER 2012
Meet the Writer A D U LT LEARNER GUIDE This periodical is designed for adults using the Explore the Bible Series.
V O LU M E 5, N U M B E R 4
SUMMER 2012
PRODUCTION & MINISTRY TEAM David Briscoe Content Editor Pat Phillips Production Editor Dawn Rodgers Wyse Graphic Designer Darin Clark Graphic Design Specialist Alan Raughton Lead Adult Ministry Specialist David Apple Adult Ministry Specialist Dwayne McCrary Editorial Project Leader Send questions/comments to Editor, Explore the Bible: Adult Learner Guide One LifeWay Plaza Nashville, TN 37234-0175 Or make comments on the Web at www.lifeway.com MANAGEMENT PERSONNEL Bret Robbe, Director Leadership and Adult Publishing Ken Braddy, Debbie Johnson, Ron Keck Managing Directors Leadership and Adult Publishing David Francis, Director Sunday School Bill Craig, Director Leadership and Adult Ministry Printed in the United States of America PHOTO CREDITS: Cover Photo: Getty Images Interior Photos: iStock Photo.com
4
RICK EZELL has a passion for teaching, preaching, and writing about God’s Word. He became a Christ-follower early in life, receiving Jesus as his Savior at age nine. Seven years later he experienced God’s call to ministry, and he continues to fulfill that calling to this day. Since 2006, he has served as the senior pastor of First Baptist Church in Greer, South Carolina. FBC Greer offers a vibrant Sunday School smallgroup ministry for all ages called “impactU.” Rick extends his Bible-teaching ministry through prolific writing. His numerous e-books include Defining Moments, Hitting a Moving Target, and 7 Habits of Highly Defective People. He also has written over 500 articles and continues to provide a weekly online devotional called “One-Minute Uplift.” We welcome Rick as a writer for Explore the Bible Learner Guide. He demonstrates the refreshing, God-given gift of the pastor-teacher.
Explore the Bible: Adult Learner Guide (Large Print) (ISSN 15563731) is published quarterly by LifeWay Christian Resources of the Southern Baptist Convention, One LifeWay Plaza, Nashville, TN 37234, Thom S. Rainer, President. © Copyright 2012 LifeWay Christian Resources of the Southern Baptist Convention. For ordering or inquiries visit www.lifeway.com, or write LifeWay Church Resources Customer Service, One LifeWay Plaza, Nashville, TN 37234-0113. For subscriptions or subscription address changes, e-mail [email protected], fax 615.251.5818, or write to the above address. For bulk shipments mailed quarterly to one address, e-mail [email protected], fax 615.251.5933, or write to the above address. We believe that the Bible has God for its author; salvation for its end; and truth, without any mixture of error, for its matter and that all Scripture is totally true and trustworthy. The 2000 statement of The Baptist Faith and Message is our doctrinal guideline. Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holman Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1999, 2000, 2002, 2003, 2009 by Holman Bible Publishers®. Used by permission. Holman Standard Christian Bible®, Holman CSB®, and HCSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers. The suggestions for pronouncing Bible names are from That’s Easy for You to Say: Your Quick Guide to Pronouncing Bible Names by W. Murray Severance, Copyright © 1997 by Broadman & Holman Publishers. Used by permission.
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table of contentsƫƩƫSUMMER 2012 Features:
The ABCs of Salvation Word Wise Daily Bible Readings Introduction to Joshua, Judges, Ruth Unit Overviews New Groups Reaching the Community
2 6 7 8 10-11 19
UNIT 1:
PROFILE IN COURAGE JOSH. 1:124:33
June 3
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June 10
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June 17
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June 24
The Loyalty Dare t+PTIVBo
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July 1
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UNIT 2:
PEOPLE IN CRISIS JUDG. 1:121:25
July 8
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July 15
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July 22
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July 29
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August 5
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August 12 5IF%PNJOP&õFDUt+VEHFTo UNIT 3:
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PORTRAIT OF COMMITMENT RUTH 1:14:22
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August 26 &NCSBDJOH3FTQPOTJCJMJUJFTt3VUIo
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* Evangelistic Lesson
5
UNIT 1 PROFILE IN COURAGE
Week of June 3
The Leadership Dare
OK, I need to be a leader. but what if I fail? Background Passage: Joshua 1:1-18 Lesson Passages: Joshua 1:1-11,16-18 Biblical Truth: Believers demonstrate courage by accepting leadership responsibilities to which the Lord has called them. Life Goal: To help you dare to accept leadership responsibilities in your church 12
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J
im was asked to direct the men’s ministry at his church. Through this ministry, the church had touched the lives of hundreds of men and their families. People came to faith in Christ. Long-time believers found a fresh spiritual vibrancy. However, Jim realized that he would be stepping into some big shoes. The previous ministry leader, a friend of Jim’s and a man who oozed personality, Christlike charisma, and ability, suddenly had contracted a debilitating illness. Jim was unsure if he could match his friend’s level of success. Succeeding a distinguished and godly leader can be a huge challenge. The temptation is to shy away from taking on such a challenge. However, while God’s workers may resign, relocate, retire, or die, God’s work continues. In today’s Bible passage, we will discover how Joshua stepped up after Moses’ death to prepare God’s people to enter the promised land. His story can help you dare to accept a leadership role in your church.
r
For further study on Christian leadership, read Jesus on Leadership by Gene Wilkes. Available at www.lifeway. com.
Study Questions 1. What was Joshua’s first task as leader after Moses’ death? (1:4) 2. What was God’s repeated exhortation to Joshua as a leader? (1:6,7,9) 3. Whom did Joshua involve in the task of getting the people prepared to cross the Jordan River? (1:10) 4. How did the officers and people respond to Joshua’s leadership? (1:18)
BACKGROUND PASSAGE OVERVIEW
Rely on the Lord’s Promise (Josh. 1:1-5a)—After Moses’ death, the Lord instructed Joshua to prepare the people for entering the promised land. Rely on the Lord’s Presence (Josh. 1:5b-9)—The Lord reassured Joshua by challenging him to show courage and to carefully follow divine instructions. Respond with Obedience (Josh. 1:10-15)—Joshua obeyed the Lord’s message and prepared the people for crossing the Jordan River and for fighting the battles that were ahead. Joshua reminded the tribes planning to settle east of the river of their commitment to help with the invasion. Receive Affirmation (Josh. 1:16-18)—The tribes restated their commitment and prayed for Joshua, encouraging him to be a strong and courageous leader.
Wherever a diamond (◆) appears before a word, see page 6 for pronunciation help and quick definitions.
THE LEADERSHIP DARE
13
Rely on the Lord’s Promise (Josh. 1:1-5a) HCSB
1 After the death of Moses the LORD’s servant, the LORD spoke to Joshua son of Nun, who had served Moses: 2 “Moses My servant is dead. Now you and all the people prepare to cross over the Jordan to the land I am giving the Israelites. 3 I have given you every place where the sole of your foot treads, just as I promised Moses. 4 Your territory will be from the wilderness and Lebanon to the great ◆Euphrates River—all the land of the ◆Hittites—and west to the Mediterranean Sea. 5a No one will be able to stand against you as long as you live.
? What leadership needs do you see presently in your family? In your church? (1:2)
14
KJV 1 Now after the death of Moses the servant of the LORD it came to pass, that the LORD spake unto Joshua the son of Nun, Moses’ minister, saying, 2 Moses my servant is dead; now therefore arise, go over this Jordan, thou, and all this people, unto the land which I do give to them, even to the children of Israel. 3 Every place that the sole of your foot shall tread upon, that have I given unto you, as I said unto Moses. 4 From the wilderness and this Lebanon even unto the great river, the river ◆Euphrates, all the land of the ◆Hittites, and unto the great sea toward the going down of the sun, shall be your coast. 5a There shall not any man be able to stand before thee all the days of thy life:
Verse 1. Moses was called the Lord’s servant because he was the great lawgiver and leader of the Israelite people. The title implied faithful obedience to God while leading His people. The Lord refers to God’s personal name Yahweh, the name that reveals His character, eternal nature, and enduring faithfulness. Joshua—his name means Yahweh saves—had served as Moses’ closest aide and lieutenant. Previously Joshua had served among the 12 scouts who first spied out the land of Canaan (see Num. 13:8, where he is referred to as Hoshea). Of the twelve, only he and Caleb had urged the people to show faith in God by taking possession of the land despite the dangers involved. Now the primary leadership role fell squarely on Joshua’s shoulders. Could he succeed? Not without God’s help and guidance! Verse 2. God’s encouragement was meant for both Joshua and all the people. ? The time of mourning for Moses was over (see Deut. 34:8). The people needed to get ready for taking possession of the promised land. (See Study Question 1.) Verse 3. God reminded Joshua that He had promised this land to them as Abraham’s descendants (see Gen. 12:7). The verb have given emphasizes that in God’s eyes the transaction was
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complete. What remained was for the Israelites to move forward in faith to receive God’s gift. This fact, of course, did not diminish the courage or obedience needed. The phrase where the sole of your foot treads implies movement. In other words, the people would walk with God, go where He directed, do as He instructed, and fight their battles under His banner. As they did, God would fulfill His promises. This plan is a fitting reminder that God’s people are to live on His promises, not on full explanations. Verse 4. God reminded Joshua of the promised land’s geographical scope. (See the map on p. 115 for reference.) The term wilderness referred to the land’s southern border, Lebanon its northern limit, the ◆Euphrates River its eastern limit, and the Mediterranean Sea its western border. Interestingly, the Israelites never possessed this full gift in all its history. Was God’s promise faulty? No. The people disobeyed and faltered in faith time after time. We as God’s people today experience similar limitations because our faith falls far short of God’s generous desires to bless. Verse 5a. Then God promised Joshua lifelong victory. If the people moved forward with faith in God’s promise, no enemy could stand against them. The battles would be fought, but the outcome already was settled. What an exciting way to live and serve God!
Rely on the Lord’s Presence (Josh. 1:5b-9) HCSB 5b I will be with you, just as I was with Moses. I will not leave you or forsake you. 6 “Be strong and courageous, for you will distribute the land I swore to their fathers to give them as an inheritance. 7 Above all, be strong and very courageous to carefully observe the whole instruction My servant Moses commanded you. Do not turn from it to the right or the left, so that you will have success wherever you go. 8 This book of instruction must not depart from your mouth; you are to recite it day and night so that you may carefully observe everything written in it. For then you will prosper and succeed in whatever you do. 9 Haven’t I commanded you: be strong
KJV 5b as I was with Moses, so I will be with thee: I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee. 6 Be strong and of a good courage: for unto this people shalt thou divide for an inheritance the land, which I sware unto their fathers to give them. 7 Only be thou strong and very courageous, that thou mayest observe to do according to all the law, which Moses my servant commanded thee: turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that thou mayest prosper whithersoever thou goest. 8 This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: THE LEADERSHIP DARE
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and courageous? Do no be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”
KEY DOCTRINE: HOLY SPIRIT The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of God, the third Person of the Holy Trinity. His presence in the Christian is the guarantee that God will bring the believer into the fullness of the stature of Christ. (See also Rom. 8:11; Eph. 1:13-14; 1 John 4:13.)
? Why is studying and knowing God’s Word critical to leadership success? How do the Scriptures help build a leader’s strength and courage? (1:9)
Verse 5b. God further assured Joshua that he, like Moses, could count on God’s ongoing presence. This reality would be the secret of Joshua’s success. Moses was no longer present with the Israelites, but God was. As Christians, we too can take heart in the promise of God’s presence in the Holy Spirit (see John 14:16-17). Verse 6. Here is the first of three times in the span of four verses that God exhorted Joshua to be strong and courageous. (See Study Question 2.) Perhaps the new leader was feeling the pressures and risks of leadership. If so, God was there to encourage him. God assured the commander that he was the one who would distribute the land. This promise was tantamount to a guarantee that Joshua and the Israelites would defeat their enemies and possess the land. Verses 7-8. Another key to Joshua’s success was revealed: obedience to God’s guidance. Joshua needed to carefully observe the whole instruction. He was to personally obey God’s law given through Moses as well as to lead the people to faithfully follow it. The phrase recite it means to meditate on, to constantly think about and discuss God’s Word. The promised result of obedience was that Joshua and the Israelites would prosper and succeed. Interestingly, these two terms almost never refer to financial accomplishments in the Old Testament. Rather, they point to the completion of a God-given mission in life. Verse 9. God again commanded Joshua to be strong and courageous. Courage in leadership is more a matter of obedience than emotion. Faith is taking bold steps of obedience based on confidence in God’s presence and His Word. ?
Respond with Obedience (Josh. 1:10-11)
HCSB 10 Then Joshua commanded the officers of the people: 11 “Go through the camp 16
for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success. 9 Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.
KJV 10 Then Joshua commanded the officers of the people, saying, 11 Pass through the
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and tell the people, ‘Get provisions ready for yourselves, for within three days you will be crossing the Jordan to go in and take possession of the land the Lord your God is giving you to inherit.’ ”
host, and command the people, saying, Prepare you victuals; for within three days ye shall pass over this Jordan, to go in to possess the land, which the Lord your God giveth you to possess it.
Verse 10. Effective leaders organize wisely and use the organization to equip, motivate, and mobilize others. Joshua relayed God’s directive to the officers of the people. These leaders would be responsible for instructing the groups of people under their charge. (See Study Question 3.) Verse 11. Joshua’s orders at this point did not involve laying out a military strategy but rather preparing the people to break camp and to face their first challenge: crossing the Jordan River. Getting provisions ready meant that once the people started moving into the land they might not be able to set up camp again for a number of days. The phrase within three days probably refers to the time frame of preparation. That is, Joshua would wait no longer than that before giving the command to march. Important lessons emerge from these verses for Christian leaders and followers alike. First, Christian leaders are wise to equip, motivate, and involve others in carrying out God’s work. The task is too big and too important to do otherwise. Second, Christian leaders motivate God’s people to remain alert. We need to live in such a way that we’re always ready to do what God asks of us (see Matt. 24:44). Third, while Christians often want to know up front God’s full, detailed plan for their lives, God demands that His people follow Him one step, one day, one battle at a time. Oftentimes it’s our faithfulness in what we might think of as “little things” that God uses in preparing us for greater service. ?
? How have you seen church leaders use organization to involve more people in Christian service? How are you involved? (1:11)
Receive Affirmation (Josh. 1:16-18) HCSB 16 They answered Joshua, “Everything you have commanded us we will do, and everywhere you send us we will go. 17 We will obey you, just as we obeyed Moses in everything. And may the LORD your God be with you, as He was with Moses. 18 Anyone who rebels against your order
KJV 16 And they answered Joshua, saying, All that thou commandest us we will do, and whithersoever thou sendest us, we will go. 17 According as we hearkened unto Moses in all things, so will we hearken unto thee: only the LORD thy God be with thee, as he was with Moses. 18 Whosoever he THE LEADERSHIP DARE
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and does not obey your words in all that you command him, will be put to death. Above all, be strong and courageous!”
STUDY QUESTION ANSWERS 1. Joshua’s first task was to prepare the people to cross the Jordan River. 2. Joshua was to be strong and courageous. 3. Joshua involved the officers of the people. 4. They affirmed Joshua’s leadership.
be that doth rebel against thy commandment, and will not hearken unto thy words in all that thou commandest him, he shall be put to death: only be strong and of a good courage.
Verse 16. Possessing the promised land would require everyone’s participation, including the tribes that planned to settle on the eastern side of the Jordan River (see Josh. 1:12-15). The pronoun they in this verse likely refers to the officers representing all the people (see 1:10). These leaders voiced an enthusiastic affirmation of Joshua’s leadership. (See Study Question 4.) Verse 17. The people were willing to follow Joshua, just as they had followed Moses. In the ancient near east, a change of leadership typically involved taking a pledge of loyalty to the new leader. Now the people pledged their obedience to Joshua. They prayed for Joshua in his new role that God would be with him. Joshua would need God’s presence to succeed as their leader. Verse 18. The officers were serious about their commitment to follow Joshua’s orders, imposing the threat of death on anyone who disobeyed. They took Joshua’s leadership and their responsibility seriously. They saw obedience as a matter of life or death. Once again the exhortation echoed—this time from the people’s representatives—that Joshua be strong and courageous.
W H AT N OW ? M Y M I S S I O N How will you put into action this week what you’ve learned from God’s Word about leadership? t%BSFUPBDDFQUMFBEFSTIJQSFTQPOTJbilities by relying on God’s promises. t$PVOUPO(PETJOEXFMMJOH FNQPXFSJOH presence and help through the Holy Spirit. t%FDJEFUIBUPCFEJFODFUP(PEXJMMCFZPVS basic approach in being a leader. t#FUIBOLGVMGPSUIFBöSNBUJPOPGMFBEFSTIJQZPVSFDFJWFGSPNPUIFS$ISJTUJBOT
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