Joshua 10:1-43
Introduction
: The campaign to the south by Israel now in the promise land, is sparked by Joshua’s defence of the Gibeonites in three stages or battles.
The Enemies Plan
: An attack to retaliate against Gibeon and the Gibeonites is lead by the King of Jerusalem by the name of Adonizedek. (Lord of Zedek or Master of Zedek).
He leads five Canaanite kings; Hebron, Jarmuth, Lachish and Eglon and himself.
Question
: What to do when the battle rages against progress?
I. Cry out to the Big Gun(s)
– Israel – 4
‘
Do not forsake your servants; come up to us quickly, save us and help us
…’
II. Secure Progression
– 8
‘The Lord said to Joshua, “do not fear them, for I have delivered them into you hand; not a man of them shall stand before you.”’
Application
: We need to keep going, keep marching, keep moving toward God’s plan, purpose.
Galatians 6:9, ‘And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart’.
Application
: God put things on hold against the enemy until it was totally and completely wiped out!
Translation
: The second phase or battle begins in verse 16.
III. Enemies Hiding Place
– 16-27
Application
: Sometimes the enemy will hide to try and convince us that they’re gone but often they are just in temporary hiding places!
Transition
: The last phase or battle of the southern conquest is in verses 28-43.
In this section, Joshua conquers areas named Libnah and Lachish, Eglon, and Hebron and Debir.
Application: Because God was with the Joshua Generation, because He’s a good and powerful God, because He keeps his word and promise…God took care of all the enemies that we’re impeding God’s plans and purposes!
Question
: Again, how long did that take? Not sure, but the victory was completed, and progress continued.
Conclusion
: Advancements? Challenges? Hidden enemies? God causing the victory!
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