All Came to Pass (Joshua 13 - 21)

First Scripture Reading: Joshua 14:6-15

Second Scripture Reading: Hebrews 11:1-16

Sermon Text: Joshua 13:1 - 21:45

In Joshua 13 - 21 we read about the specific inheritances of individuals and the tribes of Israel. On their own, these chapters might not stir our hearts, but within the story of redemption, they reveal God’s covenant faithfulness. God made a promise to Abraham centuries before Israel’s conquest of the land, and Joshua 13 - 21 is like a map that explains in detail how God’s promise was fulfilled. As we read, we can look forward to the day when Jesus, our greater Joshua, will grant us our inheritance: the new heaven and the new earth. He is now preparing it for us. The Apostle Peter writes: “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, who by God's power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time” (1 Peter 1:3-5).

1. For review, read Joshua 11:18. What does this verse reveal about the battles we fight against our flesh, against the temptations of this world, and against the devil? Will our sanctification be completed in this life?
2. Review Joshua 14:6-15 and read Numbers 13:25-33. What do you learn about faith from Joshua and Caleb’s report? Have you ever been in a situation in which you were among a small minority who stood for the Lord? How did you get through it?
3. Read Joshua 13:13; 16:10; and 17:12-13. Why did some tribes fail to completely drive out the inhabitants of the land? How did this affect Israel later on? What does this teach us about the danger of partial obedience?
4. What does the appointing of the cities of refuge in Joshua 20 reveal about God?
5. In the same way that the Israelites inherited parcels of land, we will inherit the earth. How do the following verses describe our inheritance and how we will possess it: Matthew 25:34; Romans 4:13; 1 Corinthians 15:50; Ephesians 1:11-14; Colossians 1:11-13; and 1 Peter 1:3-5?
6. In preparation for next week, read Joshua 22. What does this chapter teach us about how to deal with conflict in our church?