Joshua 12
BSB1 Now these are the kings of the land whom the Israelites struck down and whose lands they took beyond the Jordan to the east, from the Arnon Valley to Mount Hermon, including all the Arabah eastward: 2 Sihon king of the Amorites, who lived in Heshbon. He ruled from Aroer on the rim of the Arnon Valley, along the middle of the valley, up to the Jabbok River (the border of the Ammonites), that is, half of Gilead, 3 as well as the Arabah east of the Sea of Chinnereth to the Sea of the Arabah (the Salt Sea ), eastward through Beth-jeshimoth, and southward below the slopes of Pisgah. 4 And Og king of Bashan, one of the remnant of the Rephaim, who lived in Ashtaroth and Edrei. 5 He ruled over Mount Hermon, Salecah, all of Bashan up to the border of the Geshurites and Maacathites, and half of Gilead to the border of Sihon king of Heshbon. 6 Moses, the servant of the LORD, and the Israelites had struck them down and given their land as an inheritance to the Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh. 7 And these are the kings of the land that Joshua and the Israelites conquered beyond the Jordan to the west, from Baal-gad in the Valley of Lebanon to Mount Halak, which rises toward Seir (according to the allotments to the tribes of Israel, Joshua gave them as an inheritance 8 the hill country, the foothills, the Arabah, the slopes, the wilderness, and the Negev—the lands of the Hittites, Amorites, Canaanites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites): 9 the king of Jericho, one; the king of Ai, which is near Bethel, one; 10 the king of Jerusalem, one; the king of Hebron, one; 11 the king of Jarmuth, one; the king of Lachish, one; 12 the king of Eglon, one; the king of Gezer, one; 13 the king of Debir, one; the king of Geder, one; 14 the king of Hormah, one; the king of Arad, one; 15 the king of Libnah, one; the king of Adullam, one; 16 the king of Makkedah, one; the king of Bethel, one; 17 the king of Tappuah, one; the king of Hepher, one; 18 the king of Aphek, one; the king of Lasharon, one; 19 the king of Madon, one; the king of Hazor, one; 20 the king of Shimron-meron, one; the king of Achshaph, one; 21 the king of Taanach, one; the king of Megiddo, one; 22 the king of Kedesh, one; the king of Jokneam in Carmel, one; 23 the king of Dor in Naphath-dor, one; the king of Goiim in Gilgal, one; 24 and the king of Tirzah, one. So there were thirty-one kings in all.
Study Notes — Joshua 12
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from Joshua 12
- Themes from Joshua 12
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on Joshua 12
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
Joshua 12 provides a detailed account of the kings that Israel defeated, first under Moses' leadership and then under Joshua's. The chapter begins by listing the kings conquered by Moses, including Sihon king of the Amorites and Og king of Bashan, and then transitions to the kings defeated by Joshua, including those in the hill country, the Arabah, the Shephelah, and the wilderness. The chapter concludes with a total of thirty-one kings that were defeated, demonstrating the extensive nature of Israel's conquests and the fulfillment of God's promises. Key verses such as Joshua 12:1 and Joshua 12:7-8 highlight the scope of the conquests and the faithfulness of God to His people.
Context for the Chapter
Joshua 12 is situated within the larger narrative of the book of Joshua, which tells the story of the Israelites' conquest of Canaan. The chapter serves as a summary of the conquests, highlighting the fulfillment of God's promises and the power of His sovereignty. In the larger biblical narrative, the conquests under Joshua foreshadow the ultimate victory of Christ over sin and death, demonstrating God's power and faithfulness to His people.
Heart Application
This chapter encourages believers to trust in God's power and faithfulness, recognizing that He is sovereign over all of history. It reminds us that our inheritance in Christ is secure, and that we can trust in His promises to guide and direct us. As we reflect on the conquests under Joshua, we are reminded of the greater conquest of Christ over sin and death, and the ultimate victory that awaits us in Him.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
Joshua 12 is a chapter that summarizes the kings that Israel defeated under the leadership of Moses and Joshua. It highlights the extent of the conquests and the division of the land among the tribes of Israel, demonstrating God's power and faithfulness to His people. As seen in Joshua 12:7-8, the chapter emphasizes the fulfillment of God's promises and the sovereignty of God over history.
Voices from the Church
“The conquests of Joshua are a type of the greater conquests of Christ, who has defeated the powers of sin and death and has given us the victory.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“The division of the land among the tribes of Israel serves as a reminder of the greater inheritance that we have in Christ, who has given us a kingdom that cannot be shaken.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- Introduction to the Conquests (Joshua 12:1-6) — The chapter begins by listing the kings conquered by Moses, including Sihon king of the Amorites and Og king of Bashan.
- The Kings Defeated by Joshua (Joshua 12:7-24) — The chapter transitions to the kings defeated by Joshua, including those in the hill country, the Arabah, the Shephelah, and the wilderness.
- The Division of the Land (Joshua 12:7-8) — The chapter emphasizes the division of the land among the tribes of Israel, highlighting the theme of inheritance and the fulfillment of God's promises.
- The Extent of the Conquests (Joshua 12:1-6, 7-24) — The chapter highlights the extensive nature of the conquests, with thirty-one kings defeated and a significant amount of territory conquered.
- Conclusion (Joshua 12:24) — The chapter concludes with a total of thirty-one kings that were defeated, demonstrating the faithfulness of God to His people and the power of His sovereignty.
Core Doctrines
- Sovereignty of God
- The chapter demonstrates the sovereignty of God over history, highlighting His power and faithfulness to His people.
- Inheritance in Christ
- The division of the land among the tribes of Israel serves as a type of the greater inheritance that we have in Christ, who has given us a kingdom that cannot be shaken.
- Faithfulness of God
- The chapter emphasizes the faithfulness of God to His people, highlighting the fulfillment of His promises and the power of His sovereignty.
- Victory of Christ
- The conquests under Joshua foreshadow the ultimate victory of Christ over sin and death, demonstrating God's power and faithfulness to His people.
Lessons from Joshua 12
- Trust in God's Power — The chapter encourages believers to trust in God's power and faithfulness, recognizing that He is sovereign over all of history.
- The Inheritance in Christ — The division of the land among the tribes of Israel serves as a reminder of the greater inheritance that we have in Christ, who has given us a kingdom that cannot be shaken.
- The Sovereignty of God — The chapter demonstrates the sovereignty of God over history, highlighting His power and faithfulness to His people.
- The Victory of Christ — The conquests under Joshua foreshadow the ultimate victory of Christ over sin and death, demonstrating God's power and faithfulness to His people.
- The Faithfulness of God — The chapter emphasizes the faithfulness of God to His people, highlighting the fulfillment of His promises and the power of His sovereignty.
Themes from Joshua 12
- Conquest and Victory — The chapter highlights the extensive nature of the conquests, with thirty-one kings defeated and a significant amount of territory conquered.
- Inheritance and Promise — The division of the land among the tribes of Israel serves as a type of the greater inheritance that we have in Christ, who has given us a kingdom that cannot be shaken.
- Sovereignty and Faithfulness — The chapter demonstrates the sovereignty of God over history, highlighting His power and faithfulness to His people.
- Redemption and Salvation — The conquests under Joshua foreshadow the ultimate victory of Christ over sin and death, demonstrating God's power and faithfulness to His people.
- Trust and Obedience — The chapter encourages believers to trust in God's power and faithfulness, recognizing that He is sovereign over all of history.
Questions for Meditation
- What does the chapter reveal about God's power and faithfulness to His people?
- How does the division of the land among the tribes of Israel serve as a type of the greater inheritance that we have in Christ?
- What does the chapter teach us about the sovereignty of God over history?
- How do the conquests under Joshua foreshadow the ultimate victory of Christ over sin and death?
- What practical lessons can we apply to our lives from this chapter, particularly in terms of trusting in God's power and faithfulness?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. Introduction to the Conquests (Joshua 12:1-6)
| Joshua 12:1 | The chapter begins by listing the kings conquered by Moses, including Sihon king of the Amorites and Og king of Bashan. |
| Joshua 12:2 | The kings conquered by Moses are listed, highlighting the extent of the conquests and the power of God. |
2. The Kings Defeated by Joshua (Joshua 12:7-24)
| Joshua 12:7 | The chapter transitions to the kings defeated by Joshua, including those in the hill country, the Arabah, the Shephelah, and the wilderness. |
| Joshua 12:8 | The division of the land among the tribes of Israel is emphasized, highlighting the theme of inheritance and the fulfillment of God's promises. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the conquests under Joshua?
The conquests under Joshua demonstrate the power and faithfulness of God to His people, highlighting the fulfillment of His promises and the sovereignty of God over history. As seen in Joshua 12:1-6 and Joshua 12:7-24, the conquests serve as a type of the greater conquests of Christ over sin and death.
How does the division of the land among the tribes of Israel serve as a type of the greater inheritance that we have in Christ?
The division of the land among the tribes of Israel serves as a reminder of the greater inheritance that we have in Christ, who has given us a kingdom that cannot be shaken. As seen in Joshua 12:7-8, the division of the land highlights the theme of inheritance and the fulfillment of God's promises.
What does the chapter teach us about the sovereignty of God over history?
The chapter demonstrates the sovereignty of God over history, highlighting His power and faithfulness to His people. As seen in Joshua 12:1-6 and Joshua 12:7-24, the conquests under Joshua and the division of the land among the tribes of Israel serve as a testament to God's sovereignty and faithfulness.
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Joshua 12:1 → Numbers 21:21-35 | The conquest of Sihon king of the Amorites is also recorded in Numbers 21:21-35, highlighting the power and faithfulness of God to His people. |
| 2 | Joshua 12:2 → Deuteronomy 2:26-37 | The conquest of Og king of Bashan is also recorded in Deuteronomy 2:26-37, demonstrating the sovereignty of God over history. |
| 3 | Joshua 12:7 → Joshua 10:1-43 | The conquest of the kings in the hill country, the Arabah, the Shephelah, and the wilderness is also recorded in Joshua 10:1-43, highlighting the extensive nature of the conquests and the power of God. |
| 4 | Joshua 12:8 → Joshua 13:1-7 | The division of the land among the tribes of Israel is also recorded in Joshua 13:1-7, emphasizing the theme of inheritance and the fulfillment of God's promises. |
| 5 | Joshua 12:1-6 → Psalm 136:17-22 | The conquests under Moses are also celebrated in Psalm 136:17-22, highlighting the power and faithfulness of God to His people. |
| 6 | Joshua 12:7-24 → Hebrews 11:32-34 | The conquests under Joshua are also mentioned in Hebrews 11:32-34, demonstrating the faithfulness of God to His people and the power of His sovereignty. |
| 7 | Joshua 12:7 → Romans 8:37 | The conquests under Joshua foreshadow the ultimate victory of Christ over sin and death, as seen in Romans 8:37. |
| 8 | Joshua 12:8 → 1 Corinthians 10:11 | The division of the land among the tribes of Israel serves as a type of the greater inheritance that we have in Christ, as seen in 1 Corinthians 10:11. |
| 9 | Joshua 12:1-6 → Matthew 1:1-17 | The conquests under Moses and Joshua are part of the larger narrative of God's plan of redemption, as seen in Matthew 1:1-17. |
| 10 | Joshua 12:7-24 → Revelation 21:1-4 | The conquests under Joshua foreshadow the ultimate victory of Christ over sin and death, and the establishment of the new heaven and the new earth, as seen in Revelation 21:1-4. |
Sermons on Joshua 12
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
Thirty-One Kings, or the Victory Over Self by A.B. Simpson | A.B. Simpson emphasizes the spiritual battle against the 'thirty-one kings' representing various forms of self-life that hinder our relationship with God. He explains that while gr |
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Joshua Chapter 5 Thirty-One Kings, or the Victory Over Self by A.B. Simpson | A.B. Simpson emphasizes the spiritual battle against the 'thirty-one kings' representing various forms of self-life that hinder a deeper relationship with God. He explains that whi |
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Joshua 1 - 13 by John Nelson Darby | John Nelson Darby explores the themes of faith, obedience, and the spiritual journey of the Israelites as they prepare to cross the Jordan into Canaan. He emphasizes the importance |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Joshua 12
Matthew Henry's commentary on Joshua 12 highlights the significance of the conquests under Joshua, demonstrating the power and faithfulness of God to His people. The commentary emphasizes the theme of inheritance and the fulfillment of God's promises, as seen in the division of the land among the tribes of Israel. Henry also notes the typological significance of the conquests, foreshadowing the ultimate victory of Christ over sin and death. As Henry writes, 'The conquests of Joshua are a type of the greater conquests of Christ, who has defeated the powers of sin and death and has given us the victory.' The commentary concludes by encouraging believers to trust in God's power and faithfulness, recognizing that He is sovereign over all of history. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
The Extent of the Conquests
The chapter highlights the extensive nature of the conquests, with thirty-one kings defeated and a significant amount of territory conquered. This emphasizes God's power and faithfulness to His people, as seen in Joshua 12:1-6 and Joshua 12:7-24.
The Division of the Land
The chapter emphasizes the division of the land among the tribes of Israel, highlighting the theme of inheritance and the fulfillment of God's promises. This is seen in Joshua 12:7-8, where Joshua divides the land according to the allotments of the tribes.
The Faithfulness of God
The chapter demonstrates the faithfulness of God to His people, highlighting the fulfillment of His promises and the power of His sovereignty. This is seen throughout the chapter, particularly in Joshua 12:7-8 and Joshua 12:24.