“Nevertheless the children of Israel expelled not the Geshurites, nor the Maachathites: but the Geshurites and the Maachathites dwell among the Israelites until this day.”
This verse is part of a larger passage in the Book of Joshua where the distribution of the land of Canaan among the tribes of Israel is described. Joshua, under the guidance of the Lord, was dividing the land among the tribes, ensuring that each tribe received their inheritance.
In Joshua 13:13, it is mentioned that the children of Israel did not fully expel the Geshurites and the Maachathites from the land. Instead, these two groups continued to dwell among the Israelites. This failure to drive out the Canaanite inhabitants is mentioned in several verses throughout the book of Joshua (e.g., Joshua 15:63; Joshua 16:10; Joshua 17:12-13). It is important to understand the context of these passages to grasp the significance of this verse.
There are a few key points we can draw from this verse and its surrounding context:
- Incomplete obedience:The failure of the Israelites to fully drive out the Canaanite nations from the land demonstrates a lack of complete obedience to God’s commandments. God had instructed them to completely remove the inhabitants of the land so that they would not be a snare or temptation to Israel, leading them into idolatry and disobedience (Exodus 23:31-33; Deuteronomy 7:1-5). However, the Israelites did not fully carry out this commandment.
- Consequences of incomplete obedience:The presence of the Geshurites and the Maachathites among the Israelites had potential implications. Despite coexistence, the influence of these Canaanite nations could have led to compromise, intermarriage, and the worship of foreign gods. These consequences are seen later in Israel’s history, as the influence of the Canaanites led them astray from worshiping the Lord alone.
- Lessons for believers:This passage serves as a reminder for believers today to obey God fully and not compromise with worldly influences. It emphasizes the importance of removing anything that can hinder our relationship with God or lead us away from His will.
It is important to note that the Book of Joshua provides historical accounts of events that took place during the Israelites’ conquest and settlement of the Promised Land. While the presence of the Geshurites and the Maachathites was not fully eradicated, it does not imply God’s endorsement of their presence or practices. Instead, it highlights the Israelites’ failure to obey God’s instructions completely.
Overall, Joshua 13:13 serves as a reminder of the consequences of incomplete obedience and the importance of wholehearted devotion to God’s commands. It encourages believers to remain vigilant in removing anything that may compromise their commitment to following God’s will.
