Rev. Mark Barz, pastor at Crown of Life Lutheran Church in San Antonio, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Joshua 9:1-27.
The reaction to Israel’s conquest of Canaan is twofold. The majority of the people begin to ally with each other against Israel, but the people of Gibeon choose the path of cunning. They dress as if they are from a far country and make Israel an offer for peace. Israel questions the Gibeonites at length, but they fail to inquire of the LORD before making a covenant of peace. When the deception is revealed, Israel stays true to their oath made in the LORD’s name, but Joshua sentences the Gibeonites to a life of service to Israel. The Gibeonites receive this willingly with their lives spared. Through this strange account, the LORD reveals His mercy upon both Israel and Gibeon and reminds all people that trust in Him is never put to shame.
“The Promised Land Delivered” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Joshua. After the death of Moses, the LORD remains with His people to bring them into the Promised Land under Joshua. Throughout the book, the LORD proves that not one of His Word falls unfulfilled. Today, the Church has the same confidence that all of God’s promises find their “Yes” in Christ.
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