Theory question 101
Joshua and the JudgesSection A (Themes from the Old Testament)
Describe the role of Joshua in the story of the twelve spies indicating the reasons why God chose him to succeed Moses. What four lessons can church leaders learn from this story?
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Moses sent twelve men, one from each tribe, to spy out Canaan; Joshua (Hoshea son of Nun) represented Ephraim (Numbers 13:1-16).
They spent forty days and brought back fruit, reporting a land flowing with milk and honey but with strong people and fortified cities (Numbers 13:21-29).
Ten spies gave an evil report: "we seemed like grasshoppers"; the people wept and wanted to return to Egypt (Numbers 13:31-33; 14:1-4).
Joshua and Caleb tore their clothes and said the land is exceedingly good; if the Lord delights in us He will give it; do not rebel or fear the people, for the Lord is with us (Numbers 14:6-9).
The people wanted to stone them (Numbers 14:10).
God punished the faithless generation, but promised Joshua and Caleb would enter the land (Numbers 14:28-30, 38).
Reasons he was chosen: his faith and courage; loyalty to God and Moses; a man in whom is the Spirit (Numbers 27:18); experience as Moses' assistant and army commander (Exodus 17:9-13; 24:13); Moses laid hands on him before the people (Numbers 27:18-23).
Lessons (any four): leaders must trust God; speak the truth boldly; not follow the crowd; encourage the people; be loyal and obedient; faithfulness is rewarded.
Describe Joshua's report, why he was chosen, then four lessons.