� Reading 3 - Joshua 1-4

Introduction to Joshua - Joshua is an exciting and easy to read book. However, as we read it we must remember that the main purpose of such history is not our entertainment or chronology, but showing God’s work. The Old Testament rotates around the Abrahamic promises of Genesis 12. Exodus shows part of those problems coming to pass as his seed becomes a great nation, but progress on the promises is temporar- ily blocked as the Israelites fail to have the faith needed to enter the Promised Land. The promise thread is now rejoined in Joshua as they take the Promised Land. This book will also show us much of the dangers of apostasy, while teaching us much about God (such as His faithfulness to keep His word, His holiness and graciousness). Let’s read Joshua!

1 - Chapter 1 begins with the preamble to the whole book (verses 1-9). The theme of covenant obedi- ence is repeated again and again (verses 3, 7-8, 13, 17-18). Verse 15 makes clear that rest cannot be en- joyed by anyone till enjoyed by all.

2 - Chapter 2 starts with spies, but a very different result is obtained from a spy report this time than the last time Israel sent out spies (Numbers 13). Verse 15 is a summary of how the discussion at Rahab’s house ended. Then more details follow (verses 16-21). This is a very common way of reporting Israelite his- tory in the Bible. A summary statement is then followed by the details, but readers can be confused because it appears Rahab let the spies out and then talked to them. Watch for this kind of “summary first, details to follow” pattern. The spies fool their pursuers by going west into the hills instead of directly east to where Is- rael was waiting on the other side of the Jordan (verse 16).

3 - Chapter 3 centers on the ark of the covenant. It is literally the center of the story, mentioned here and at Jericho. The ark serves as the reminder of the visible presence of God. God is going with His people - leading them into the Promised Land (verse 3)! Verse 7 gives the purpose for the miraculous crossing of the Jordan: accredit Joshua as the leader of Israel as Moses was. The people could’ve built boats, or waded across at a shallow crossing. Instead God duplicates the Red Sea miracle so the people will trust Joshua and trust in God (verse 10). What a sight to see, especially since it was springtime and the Jordan was at flood stage (verse 15)!

4 - Chapter 4 is devoted to remembering the great Jordan river crossing. Joshua constructs two memo- rials - one in the center of the Jordan (probably visible at low water times) as described in verse 9, and one at Gilgal (verses 8, 20). The purposes for these memorials were two-fold: God wanted Israel’s children taught of His great power (verses 4-7, 22-23) and God wants to be known by all people (verses 21-24).

Psalm 143

This psalm is classified as a penitential psalm by many on the basis of verse 2, but does that verse really speak of David’s sin? What really stands out in the psalm is the movement from concern about personal problems and trials to concern about God’s will and way. Verse 1 establishes the grounds for answered prayer in the Lord’s gracious faithfulness to His people. Verse 6 finds David reaching out to God, and not just seeking what God can do for him. Three times in verses 8-10 David prays for God’s guidance. The final appeal is that God would act for His reputation’s sake and out of covenant faithfulness to save (verses 11-12).

14 - Jesus tells stories at the dinner table that illustrate key aspects of discipleship. Luke again sounds the theme of the “outsiders” (Gentiles) coming in while Jews will not (verse 23). Some of Jesus’ most power- ful sayings on discipleship end the chapter. The Lord does not mean “hate” as we use the term (verse 26) but “love less.” By comparison to our devotion to Jesus our ties to family are as nothing. Don’t take this lightly, Jesus says. Count the cost of following Me first (Verses 28-35)!