Joshua
Bro. Sid Strickland
It is our intention, Lord Willing, to closely examine the book of Joshua, carefully reviewing the highly typical lessons of the period and the events. The record clearly teaches how we should diligently and continually prepare ourselves for the Lord's work, demonstrating our faith through actions, always in communion with our Heavenly Father, and manifesting the courage and resolve necessary to enter the Kingdom of God. We will first consider the historical setting of the book within the scope of God's plan, concentrating on the man Joshua, his divinely established role, his character, and his typology of Christ.
We will also focus on Rahab's example of faith and works, the spiritual significance of the Israelites crossing Jordan, the unusual conquest of Jericho and its meaning, the literal and spiritual import of the cities of refuge, and more. The book is vibrant with action and filled with lessons of faith. We, as believers, are living in the antitypical Canaan, called by the Deity to walk in faith (Ephesians 2:10) that we may enjoy rest and peace in Christ (Philippians 4:6-7), looking for that ultimate rest and inheritance (1st Timothy 6:12).
Joshua and other faithful, through God's intervention, were able to conquer the land, and Christ, the Greater Joshua, likewise conquered the flesh and will with his faithful conquer the land in the Age to Come. We must overcome the flesh in its many manifestations-the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eye, and the pride of life-if we are to be a part of Christ's faithful, the Rainbowed Angel. The book of Joshua vividly illustrates success through faith (1st John 5:4).