Joshua 13: Allocation of Promised Land

Introduction: Joshua 13 offers a profound look into the allocation of the promised land among the tribes of Israel. This chapter marks the transition of the Israelites from a wandering nation to a settled one, highlighting God’s faithfulness to His promises. It provides a rich tapestry of cultural, historical, and theological significance that underlines God’s sovereignty, His purposes for His chosen people, and His enduring commitment to their welfare.

I. God’s Sovereign Timing and His Unchanging Promises (Joshua 13:1)

Joshua 13:1 informs us that Joshua was old and advanced in years when God told him there was still much land to be conquered. This verse emphasizes God’s sovereign timing and His unchanging promises. Even in Joshua’s old age, God was still leading him to fulfil His promises (Genesis 12:1-3). This section highlights God’s faithfulness and timing, echoing the sentiments expressed in Ecclesiastes 3:1 – there is a time for everything under heaven.

II. The Unconquered Lands (Joshua 13:2-6)

The section of Joshua 13:2-6 presents a list of lands yet to be conquered. Despite the Israelites’ many victories, these areas remained unconquered. This section speaks about God’s purpose, reminding us that God’s plans are always being accomplished, even when we can’t see the full picture, similar to Isaiah 55:8-9’s reflection about God’s ways and thoughts being higher than ours.

III. The Promise of Inheritance (Joshua 13:7)

In Joshua 13:7, God instructs Joshua to distribute the land as an inheritance for the nine tribes and half of the tribe of Manasseh. This verse reflects God’s generous provision for His people (Matthew 6:33) and the principle of inheritance, which is also seen in Romans 8:17, where believers are co-heirs with Christ.

IV. The Special Placement of the Reubenites, Gadites, and Half-Tribe of Manasseh (Joshua 13:8-32)

This section discusses the allocation of the lands east of the Jordan to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh (Joshua 13:8-32). It demonstrates God’s unique plan for each tribe, similar to His individual plan for each believer (Jeremiah 29:11).

V. The Levitical Exemption (Joshua 13:14, 33)

The Levites were exempt from receiving a traditional inheritance (Joshua 13:14, 33). Their inheritance was the Lord and His service, reflecting the New Testament principle in 1 Peter 2:9 where believers are a royal priesthood.

VI. The Fulfilment of God’s Promise to Caleb (Joshua 13:15-23)

Joshua 13:15-23 highlights God’s fulfilment of His promises, in this case to Caleb. This reiterates the promise-keeping nature of God, not unlike Abraham’s experience in Hebrews 6:15 where Abraham received what was promised after patient endurance.

Conclusion: In Joshua 13, we witness the unfolding of God’s promises to His people in the distribution of the promised land. The chapter’s richness lies in its theological revelations about God’s sovereignty, His faithfulness to His promises, His individual plans for His people, and the principle of inheritance. As we delve into this chapter, we find echoes of its truths resonating throughout the entire biblical narrative, serving as a testament to God’s enduring love for His people.