Joshua 17b Commentary
Never mind the current human structures that we see in the Bible, namely paragraphing, verses, chapters, and titles. The flow of the story carries immense value – like the value of the text within the volume.
The core material ends at Chapter 12. But we aren’t done yet. The scripture takes us back, sampling key moments during the occupation of Canaan. It isn’t a random exercise, rather, a carefully arranged work to communicate yet more material.
Caleb’s story celebrates the faithfulness of the LORD. Caleb and Joshua are survivors from a generation that the LORD banished from the Promised Land. The scripture ensures we don’t forget God’s promise to them.
Zelophehad’s daughters, get their hands on their portions of land according to the word of the LORD. It’s a key moment!
Tribes get their portions but the order is important.
First: Judah and Joseph. These two sons carried on their shoulders the weight of Jacob’s blessing. Joseph spelt increase and fruitfulness, while Judah’s strength meant salvation. Judah would provide the military prowess to keep Israel’s enemies at bay.
Look at the elements and see Increase (multiplication), Prosperity (fruitfulness), and Dominion (rule). We can see the original mandate as recorded in Genesis 1 verse 28.
Judah is ahead of Joseph. Salvation is ahead of prosperity. Let the evangelist know. So Judah’s vast land is recorded first and takes 63 verses! Joseph’s equally vast land comes second at 28 verses (chapters 16 and 17)!
The flow of the story provides context but it also underlines priorities for us. You could also guess what is most important to God. The LORD God would give it first before anything else. Let men and women underline salvation or a return to a restored relationship with our heavenly Father.
More resources visit http://www.lovingscripture.com
LOVING SCRIPTURE 