“And all the cities of those kings, and all the kings of them, did Joshua take, and smote them with the edge of the sword, and he utterly destroyed them, as Moses the servant of the LORD commanded.”
Historical Context: Joshua 11:12 is part of the account of Joshua’s conquest of the Promised Land, which was the fulfillment of God’s promise to the Israelites. This verse specifically refers to the cities and kings that Joshua conquered in the northern region of Canaan.
Divine Command: In this verse, we see that Joshua followed the command of God, as previously given by Moses, to utterly destroy the cities and their kings. This command was a result of the wickedness and idolatry that pervaded the Canaanite nations (Deuteronomy 7:1-2). It was not a directive to engage in senseless violence but rather a judgment upon these nations due to their sin.
Obedience and Trust: Joshua’s obedience to God’s command is evident in his actions. Despite the challenges and potential difficulties of facing numerous kings and their armies, Joshua was determined to carry out God’s will. His trust in God’s promises and guidance enabled him to lead the Israelites to victory.
Spiritual Lessons:
- Obedience to God’s commands: Joshua’s obedience serves as a reminder of the importance of following God’s commands even when they may seem difficult or unpopular. Just as Joshua trusted God’s instructions, we should also seek to obey God’s Word and trust His guidance in our lives.
- Confronting sin: The conquest of Canaan teaches us about God’s holiness and His judgment against sin. It reminds us of the need to confront and eradicate sin from our lives. Like Joshua, we should be willing to engage in spiritual battles, relying on God’s strength and the spiritual weapons He has provided.
- God’s faithfulness: The success of Joshua’s conquest serves as a testimony to God’s faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. As we reflect on this verse, we can be encouraged that God is always faithful to His Word, and He empowers us to overcome obstacles and challenges when we trust in Him.
Application: As we consider Joshua’s conquest and the command to utterly destroy the Canaanite nations, it is essential to remember the context and the specific purposes of God’s commands. While this verse illustrates a specific historical event, it does not endorse or justify violence in every circumstance. God’s commands to Joshua were unique to that time and place, and they were part of God’s sovereign plan for the Israelites.
As Christians, we are called to love our enemies, pray for those who persecute us, and share the message of God’s love and forgiveness. Our battles are primarily spiritual, and we combat evil through prayer, obedience to God’s Word, and the power of the Holy Spirit.
In summary, Joshua 11:12 highlights Joshua’s obedience to God’s command to utterly destroy the cities and kings of Canaan. It reminds us of the importance of obedience, trust in God’s guidance, and His faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. It also teaches us spiritual lessons about confronting sin and engaging in spiritual battles.
