Joshua, the son of Nun and assistant to Moses, was chosen by God to lead Israel into the Promised Land. He first appears as a faithful servant, leading Israel’s army against Amalek (Exodus 17:10), and later as one of the twelve spies sent to explore Canaan (Numbers 13:16). While ten spies brought fear, Joshua and Caleb stood in faith, saying, “The Lord is with us. Do not fear them” (Numbers 14:9).
After Moses’ death, God commissioned Joshua. Joshua 1:6-9 contains the command, “Be strong and of good courage,” repeated for encouragement and assurance of God’s presence. God promised, “As I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not leave you nor forsake you” (Joshua 1:5).
Joshua led Israel across the Jordan River on dry ground (Joshua 3:17) and into victory at Jericho through faith and obedience (Joshua 6:20). Under his leadership, the land was conquered and divided among the tribes, fulfilling God’s promise to Abraham.
He was a man of integrity and decisive leadership. Joshua 24:15 boldly declares, “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” His farewell speech called Israel to remain faithful and warned against idolatry.
Joshua’s legacy is one of courage, obedience, and unwavering faith. Ecclesiasticus 46:1 in the Apocrypha honors him as “a mighty warrior and the successor of Moses in prophetic office,” and Hebrews 4:8 contrasts his rest with the greater rest offered in Christ.
He stands as a type of Christ, the name “Joshua” is the Hebrew equivalent of “Jesus”, a faithful leader who brings God’s people into their inheritance.
