Day 82: Josh 1-4 Exploring God's Presence in History

Sep 18, 2024

Lecture Notes: The Bible Recap by Tara-Leigh Cobble

Introduction

  • Host: Tara-Leigh Cobble
  • Context: Transition from the five books of the Law to History books
  • Purpose: To see God revealed through the history

Historical Context

  • 1400 BC: Moses dies after leading Israelites for 40 years.
  • Joshua, from the tribe of Ephraim, takes leadership.
    • Encouraged to "be strong and courageous" repeatedly.

Preparations to Enter Canaan

  • Transjordan Tribes (Gad, Reuben, half-tribe of Manasseh) must fight before settling east.
  • Joshua sends two spies to Jericho.
    • Tasked with assessing the city's layout and staying safe.
    • Jericho: Double-walled city, where Rahab lived.

Rahab's Role

  • Rahab, a Canaanite prostitute, fears Yahweh.
    • Recognizes Israel’s God through stories of the Red Sea.
    • Faith praised in Hebrews and James.
    • Part of Jesus’ genealogy in Matthew 1.
  • Rahab lies to protect spies; hides them on her roof.
    • Similar to actions of Egyptian midwives in Exodus 1.
  • Spies promise to spare Rahab’s family for her help when Jericho falls.

Crossing into the Promised Land

  • Israelites prepare to cross the Jordan River.
  • Ark of the Covenant leads, carried by Levites.
    • Water stops once feet enter the river.
    • First time Israel referred to as a 'nation'.
  • Memorial Stones: Twelve stones set up as reminders of God’s provision.

Themes and Reflections

  • Strength and Courage: Derived from God's presence.
  • God's Promise Fulfilled: Transition from 'people' to 'nation'.
  • Invitation to All Nations: God's might as a universal testimony.

Conclusion

  • Encouragement to engage with the content on YouTube and participate in community.
    • Commenting helps others to connect with God.

Personal Reflection

  • God Shot: Strength and courage come from God's continual presence.