“There was not a word of all that Moses commanded, which Joshua read not before all the congregation of Israel, with the women, and the little ones, and the strangers that were conversant among them.”
Context: The book of Joshua describes the conquest of the Promised Land by the Israelites under the leadership of Joshua. In this particular chapter, the city of Ai had been captured by the Israelites, and Joshua followed God’s instructions to defeat the city after an initial defeat. Afterward, Joshua built an altar and offered sacrifices to the Lord. He then wrote the law of Moses on stones, which was read to all the Israelites.
Importance of God’s Word: Joshua’s actions in reading the law of Moses before the entire congregation of Israel emphasize the significance of God’s Word. The law contained the instructions, commands, and statutes given by God to His people. It served as a guide for their lives and was meant to be followed faithfully. This act underscores the importance of the Word of God in the lives of believers.
Obedience and Unity: Joshua’s reading of the law promoted obedience and unity among the people. By reading the law to all the congregation, including men, women, children, and foreigners, Joshua ensured that everyone was aware of God’s commands. This unified the people in their understanding of God’s expectations and fostered a sense of communal responsibility in following His instructions.
Inclusivity in God’s Kingdom: The presence of women, children, and strangers among the Israelites during the reading of the law highlights God’s inclusivity and concern for all people. God’s covenant and His Word were not limited to specific groups or individuals but were extended to everyone who chose to align themselves with Him. This passage shows that God’s redemptive plan encompasses all people, irrespective of their background or status.
Transmitting God’s Word: Joshua’s act of reading the law publicly demonstrates the responsibility of passing down God’s Word to future generations. The presence of children indicates the importance of teaching God’s commands to the young. This passage encourages parents and leaders to transmit the knowledge and understanding of God’s Word to the next generation, ensuring its continuity and impact on future believers.
The Power of Scripture: The act of reading the law had a profound impact on the people of Israel. It reminded them of God’s faithfulness, His promises, and their covenant relationship with Him. Scripture has the power to convict, transform, and unite believers. Joshua’s actions remind us of the transformative power of God’s Word when it is read, understood, and applied in our lives.
Application: Joshua 8:35 encourages us to prioritize God’s Word, to faithfully transmit it to future generations, and to embrace the inclusivity of God’s kingdom. We should make reading, studying, and meditating on the Scriptures a regular practice in our lives. By doing so, we align ourselves with God’s will, experience transformation, and foster unity within the community of believers.
Remember that studying the Bible goes beyond understanding the historical context and meanings of verses. It is crucial to seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit in applying the lessons from Scripture to our lives, and to approach the Word with a humble and teachable heart.
