Today
we shall finish the study of the Book of Joshua and begin with the Book of
Romans. As we alternate
between the Old Testament and the New Testament, we hope that we will come to
appreciate the richness of God’s Word in both Testaments.
We have come to the end of the Book of Joshua which mentions the deaths of Joshua and Eleazar and the bones of Joseph. Let us use some time to reflect on their lives today:
(1) As we reflect on the life of Joshua, we naturally associate his life with that of Moses. Caleb and Joshua were the only ones in their generation (that came out of Egypt) who could see and enter the Promised Land (which not even Moses could).
a. What distinguished Joshua from the rest of the spies?
b. Subsequently, he was privileged to be the aide of Moses — the closest to Moses in his communion with God whether in the Tent of the Meeting or on the mountain. How special and precious was such a role he occupied? What had this meant to him?
c. He was also the field general in the battles east of Jordan under the command of Moses. How did this experience prepare him in his eventual role as the successor to Moses?
d. Now, in the book of Joshua, we have read how he assumed the leadership after Moses. How would you compare him with Moses in the following terms:
- His leadership
- His relationship with the people
- His walk with God
e. If you were to write a short epitaph on his tomb stone, what might you write?
(2) Reflect on v. 31 carefully. We know this period of history was succeeded by the times of the judges and the spiritual condition of the people went downhill quickly. What might be the reason for such a drastic change? What lesson can you learn from them?
(3) The wish of Joseph in Genesis 50:25 was honored. How does this speak to the faith of Joseph and the faithfulness of God?
(4) Eleazar was one of the sons of Aaron. He witnessed the sins of Aaron (the making of the golden calf in particular), and the death of his other brothers in the hand of God (Lev. 10). After the death of Aaron, he ministered as the High Priest and co-leader with Moses (Num. 20:28). At the death of Moses, he continued to lead the people in his capacity, together with Joshua, especially in the allotment of lands to the various tribes (Jos. 14:1) and was responsible for the inquiring of the Lord in making decisions in this respect (Jos. 19:51). Given the exceptional leadership role of Moses and Joshua, why was he needed? How important was his role?
(5) What is the main message to you today that you can apply to your life?