"Come up unto me, and help me, that we may smite Gibeon: for it hath made peace with Joshua and with the children of Israel."
Historical Context:Joshua 10 is part of the narrative of the conquest of Canaan by the Israelites under the leadership of Joshua. The Israelites had made a covenant with the Gibeonites, a group of Canaanite people who deceived Joshua into making a peace treaty with them. When other Canaanite kings heard about this alliance, they gathered to attack Gibeon.
The Deception of the Gibeonites:Before discussing verse 4, it is important to note the events leading up to it. In Joshua 9, the Gibeonites had heard about the conquests of the Israelites and feared for their lives. They disguised themselves, pretending to be ambassadors from a distant land, and deceived Joshua and the Israelite leaders into making a treaty of peace and protection. Joshua and the Israelites did not consult the Lord before entering into this treaty.
The Call for Assistance:In verse 4, one of the Canaanite kings, Adonizedek of Jerusalem, summons other Canaanite kings to come together and attack Gibeon because they had made peace with Joshua and the Israelites. Adonizedek calls upon his allies for help, urging them to join forces against Gibeon.
Joshua’s Response:The verse records Joshua’s response to the situation. He calls upon his own allies, urging them to come and assist him in defending Gibeon against the Canaanite coalition. Joshua recognizes the importance of keeping the covenant they had made with the Gibeonites, even though it was based on deception.
Lessons and Applications:
- The importance of keeping one’s word:Despite the circumstances of the treaty with the Gibeonites, Joshua understood the value of keeping his word. This emphasises the importance of integrity and honouring commitments, even when they may not have been made under ideal circumstances.
- The consequences of deception:The Israelites’ failure to seek guidance from the Lord and discern the truth led to a deceptive alliance with the Gibeonites. This serves as a reminder of the dangers of deception and the need for seeking God’s wisdom and guidance in decision-making.
- Seeking help in times of need:Joshua’s call for assistance demonstrates the importance of seeking help and support from others when facing overwhelming challenges. It is a reminder that we do not have to face difficulties alone but can rely on the strength and support of our allies.
Overall, Joshua 10:4 provides insights into the complex dynamics of the Israelites’ conquest of Canaan and highlights lessons on integrity, discernment, and seeking help when needed.
