Be Strong and Courageous
Joshua 1:1-18
Key Verse 1:6
Be strong and courageous, because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their ancestors to give them.
- Read verses 1-2. What was the historical and spiritual situation of the people of Israel? (1, Dt 32:44-52) What was God’s command to Joshua and how had God prepared him for this? Why might the command have been challenging for Joshua and all the rest?
- Read verses 3-5. What promises did God give to Joshua and what did each promise mean? (Dt 11:24-25) What does the phrase “you set your foot” imply the promise and Joshua’s responsibility? (Ex17:11) Why must they fight for the “promised” land? (cf. Deu 7:1; Num 14:43)
- Read verses 6-9. What are the commands and promises the Lord gave to Joshua and how are they related to one another? How can one be “Be Strong and courageous”? (7-9, Dt 6:5, Ro8:35-37) What does this passage teach us about the key secret of Joshua’s success and leadership? (Dt 11:22-23)
4. Read verses. 10-18. How did Joshua obey God’s command and what can we learn about his faith and leadership from his first commands? (10-11) What were the special instructions given the tribes of Reuben, God and the half-tride of Manasseh? Why? (12-15, Nu32:6-33) How did the people respond? (16-18)