Joshua

Seize you destiny!

First impression:                                                              

1.What do I see in this book that’s tells me about the Original Reader                                                                                                                      

In this book we read about the history of a young 2.generation Israelites, written for the 3. Generation, so they should know their history. They were strengthening their tribal identity in this book.

They were a people who had grown up in the desert and now being transformed to a nation in a new country.

They got a 3 days warning before they left. Ch1.11

The people in Jericho was afraid of the Israelites because they had heard about Gods doings for His people, ch 2.10

The date of the Conquest varies from 1406 BC to c.1250-1200BC (NB.p62)

2. What do I see in this book that tells me about the author                                                                                                                                         

Jewish tradition says that Joshua wrote this book, but as Beckah taught in class the scholars have different opinions. In NB it is described that Joshua probably at least wrote some of it. Some narratives was added later, and also some other parts. (NB.p.63)

Maybe a son of Aaron (priest Eleazar) wrote about Joshua’s funeral. (SVB.p271.)

Joshua died in c. 1390 BC.

The Israelite recognizes Joshua as their leader. Ch. 4.14, chi 1.17-18

God gives Joshua support and encourage as a leader: ch.3.7-8

3. What are the main themes, and repeated ideas in this book, and what else is a one sentence summery of the “main idea”?                                                                                            

Fulfilling of our dreams doesn’t depend on our skills, size or resources, but on faith and obedience. God repeats to Joshua “ lead…be strong and courageous…. be strong and very courageous…. be strong and very courageous (ch1.1-10)

Every time Gods speak it is a very personal and specific instruction for Joshua. (SVBp. 271)

One sentence: God speaks to Joshua and he leads the new nation to take their possessions in their new land.

4. What is the primary reason for this book was written                                                                                                                                             

1. Part  - the conquest of Canaan (ch.1.1-13.7) an amazing story of courage, faith, miracles, and innovative strategies to win the battles.

2. Part – Settlement in Canaan (ch.13.8-24.33) after the winning, God gives them a detailed description of the land of each tribe – ensuring a foundation for peace and justice.  ( SVB… NB.p.63)

Theme tracing:                                                                                                                                                                                               

5.What does the book show about the character and nature of God?                                                                                                                         

Encouraging. Josh 1.5, Deu.31.23 and 3.7

Preparation time is good  ( Beca1s lecture) - be obedient in small things

Favors faith like Rehab, ch.2 – is mentioned in Hebr. 11.31

He renews the covenant when Israel commits herself to serve the Lord and they reject the worship of all false gods.  (ch .24)

The people of Israel is meant to be set apart for the lord (ch.7.13)

6.What does this book show about God´s redemptive plan for mankind?                                                                                                                 

It shows us Faith in the one and only God! – Rahab.ch.2.9, Hebr.11.31

Her scarlet rope may also be a symbol of the blood of Jesus (Hebr.9.19-22)

Very interesting that this woman is found in the genealogy of Jesus Christ (Matt 1.5)

The name Joshua meaning “Yahweh is salvation” – is in the Hebrew equivalent of the name of “Jesus” NB.p.62 – in leading the people into their Promised Land Joshua foreshadows Jesus.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                               

Application questions                                                                                                                                                                                 

7.Personal application:

Ch.4.6 – build a memorial. This has been one of my favorite “pictures” how we build memorials along our Life path – in fact in my CDTS journal I made a whole drawing of my life – putting up the memorial stones to remember the highlights. I like the verse in Jer 31.21  - and we talk quite a lot about it in our family, to remember God’s ways in our lives. Ch.24. 15 “But as for my family, we will serve the Lord”

I class today Wednesday, it was a refreshing time to write it down again - and as always, good to share the good things the Lord has done in our life. It is also encouraging to listen to the others sharing.

8.Point of passion:

Concerning the “Right to make a reservation for doctors”

I just found out that the Norwegian doctors had now in the beginning of October been able to gain back the right to reserve themselves for referring to treatment they do not have a conscious to do.

It was a great victory – and as in Joshua – when a new leader was taking (in Norway our new prime mister) her place  - then the time was wright to take back the possibilities. In fact our Christian Democrats party was the one who made this be added to an agreement between the new collaborate of parties.