Joshua 22

Joshua 22:1

Caleb, Othniel and Achsah

Kiriath-sepher means ‘city of the book’. It will have been a city of scholarship and literature of the Canaanites. Young people sometimes have to deal with books of the world, with modern literature, which defiles the mind. Then spiritual strength is needed to take and eradicate this stronghold so it will not harm the soul.

It is possible to confront in spiritual power. Parents have a responsibility in this. They need to know what their children need to take in. They don’t have to read such literature themselves, but as Caleb they can offer a reward, a stimulus to overcome in the strength of faith. Parents have a duty to help their children capture that city.

Othniel will not only be inspired by the reward. He himself must have been longing for the land. He will have often heard Uncle Caleb talk about it and seen in his uncle’s life what it means to him. This preparation, together with the victory he gets and the woman he gets, makes him ready to be the first judge (Judges 3:9).

The city is captured by Othniel, a young man. His name means ‘lion of God’ or ‘my power is God’. Young people often have to deal with ‘the city of the book’, which is the wisdom of the world. If that city is overcome in spiritual power of faith, the city is renamed Debir, which means ‘place of demand’. This reminds us of the most holy place, the place where God speaks to the high priest and to the people. Debir can also mean ‘a word of God’. Both meanings point to the speaking of God to our hearts.

It is to be desired that all old believers want to be like Caleb who has taken Kiriath-arba, which means ‘city of giants’, to make Hebron, that means ‘fellowship’, out of it. It is to be desired that all young believers want to be like Othniel who takes ‘the city of the book’ to make it ‘a word of God’.

Caleb knows how to encourage young people to fight. He promises the conqueror of Kiriath-sepher his daughter. Othniel seizes that opportunity. Achsah will not only have been attractive to him externally. He will have known her interest in the land, for she shows this.

Caleb also has sons (1 Chronicles 4:15a). They will also have received their portion. But the blessings of the land and taking possession of them is not only for brothers. May the Lord give that there are women like Achsah, who are interested in the inheritance of God and ask for a portion.

Achsah’s interest in the land is first expressed by her stimulating her husband Othniël to ask her father for a field. Women who stimulate their husbands in this way are a real help. Such women are not interested in their husbands taking a prominent position in the church. Such women want that their husbands will achieve spiritual victories.

It will have been a joy for Caleb to comply with Othniel’s request. He gives him a field. Achsah sees that something is missing in the inheritance. Not only does she want to have a land, but she also wants to enjoy fruit from the inheritance. We can point at the amount of bible comments that we have received or purchased or that we know to find on the Internet. But if we don’t want to use those comments to bear fruit, we only own dry land.

Four times in one verse there is talk of ‘give’ (Joshua 15:19). Achsah knows her father as a giving father. If we know God like this, we will ask Him a lot. It is His joy to give to us, but He desires us to ask Him. He loves to give to those who expect something from Him.

Achsah addresses her father appropriately, not boldly or compellingly. She alights from the donkey. Caleb understands that she wants to ask something. She asks for a wedding gift. The dry land does not yield anything. Water is needed and she asks for it. She will have known that Moses has spoken of a land with an abundance of water, both in the valley and on the hill (Deuteronomy 8:7). The water from a spring speaks of the Word of God which is made alive by the Holy Spirit. Upper springs in the mountains make the water flow from top to bottom. Lower springs are in the valleys.

In our lives of faith we are at highlights, but also in valleys. Conferences and personal Bible study can be upper springs, where we are refreshed. But also in the struggles of the life of faith, in the valleys, we need the clear water of the Word to refresh ourselves. Above all, we need the desire of faith of an Achsah to desire such springs.

Often women have a better and greater understanding of what is needed than men. Because they long for it and know how to obtain it, they also get what they long for. Such a one is Mary “who was seated at the Lord’s feet, listening to His word” (Luke 10:39). The Lord Jesus says of her: “Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her” (Luke 10:42). One may still be so familiar with the land, but to enjoy fruit requires a desire.

Joshua 22:2

Caleb, Othniel and Achsah

Kiriath-sepher means ‘city of the book’. It will have been a city of scholarship and literature of the Canaanites. Young people sometimes have to deal with books of the world, with modern literature, which defiles the mind. Then spiritual strength is needed to take and eradicate this stronghold so it will not harm the soul.

It is possible to confront in spiritual power. Parents have a responsibility in this. They need to know what their children need to take in. They don’t have to read such literature themselves, but as Caleb they can offer a reward, a stimulus to overcome in the strength of faith. Parents have a duty to help their children capture that city.

Othniel will not only be inspired by the reward. He himself must have been longing for the land. He will have often heard Uncle Caleb talk about it and seen in his uncle’s life what it means to him. This preparation, together with the victory he gets and the woman he gets, makes him ready to be the first judge (Judges 3:9).

The city is captured by Othniel, a young man. His name means ‘lion of God’ or ‘my power is God’. Young people often have to deal with ‘the city of the book’, which is the wisdom of the world. If that city is overcome in spiritual power of faith, the city is renamed Debir, which means ‘place of demand’. This reminds us of the most holy place, the place where God speaks to the high priest and to the people. Debir can also mean ‘a word of God’. Both meanings point to the speaking of God to our hearts.

It is to be desired that all old believers want to be like Caleb who has taken Kiriath-arba, which means ‘city of giants’, to make Hebron, that means ‘fellowship’, out of it. It is to be desired that all young believers want to be like Othniel who takes ‘the city of the book’ to make it ‘a word of God’.

Caleb knows how to encourage young people to fight. He promises the conqueror of Kiriath-sepher his daughter. Othniel seizes that opportunity. Achsah will not only have been attractive to him externally. He will have known her interest in the land, for she shows this.

Caleb also has sons (1 Chronicles 4:15a). They will also have received their portion. But the blessings of the land and taking possession of them is not only for brothers. May the Lord give that there are women like Achsah, who are interested in the inheritance of God and ask for a portion.

Achsah’s interest in the land is first expressed by her stimulating her husband Othniël to ask her father for a field. Women who stimulate their husbands in this way are a real help. Such women are not interested in their husbands taking a prominent position in the church. Such women want that their husbands will achieve spiritual victories.

It will have been a joy for Caleb to comply with Othniel’s request. He gives him a field. Achsah sees that something is missing in the inheritance. Not only does she want to have a land, but she also wants to enjoy fruit from the inheritance. We can point at the amount of bible comments that we have received or purchased or that we know to find on the Internet. But if we don’t want to use those comments to bear fruit, we only own dry land.

Four times in one verse there is talk of ‘give’ (Joshua 15:19). Achsah knows her father as a giving father. If we know God like this, we will ask Him a lot. It is His joy to give to us, but He desires us to ask Him. He loves to give to those who expect something from Him.

Achsah addresses her father appropriately, not boldly or compellingly. She alights from the donkey. Caleb understands that she wants to ask something. She asks for a wedding gift. The dry land does not yield anything. Water is needed and she asks for it. She will have known that Moses has spoken of a land with an abundance of water, both in the valley and on the hill (Deuteronomy 8:7). The water from a spring speaks of the Word of God which is made alive by the Holy Spirit. Upper springs in the mountains make the water flow from top to bottom. Lower springs are in the valleys.

In our lives of faith we are at highlights, but also in valleys. Conferences and personal Bible study can be upper springs, where we are refreshed. But also in the struggles of the life of faith, in the valleys, we need the clear water of the Word to refresh ourselves. Above all, we need the desire of faith of an Achsah to desire such springs.

Often women have a better and greater understanding of what is needed than men. Because they long for it and know how to obtain it, they also get what they long for. Such a one is Mary “who was seated at the Lord’s feet, listening to His word” (Luke 10:39). The Lord Jesus says of her: “Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her” (Luke 10:42). One may still be so familiar with the land, but to enjoy fruit requires a desire.

Joshua 22:3

Caleb, Othniel and Achsah

Kiriath-sepher means ‘city of the book’. It will have been a city of scholarship and literature of the Canaanites. Young people sometimes have to deal with books of the world, with modern literature, which defiles the mind. Then spiritual strength is needed to take and eradicate this stronghold so it will not harm the soul.

It is possible to confront in spiritual power. Parents have a responsibility in this. They need to know what their children need to take in. They don’t have to read such literature themselves, but as Caleb they can offer a reward, a stimulus to overcome in the strength of faith. Parents have a duty to help their children capture that city.

Othniel will not only be inspired by the reward. He himself must have been longing for the land. He will have often heard Uncle Caleb talk about it and seen in his uncle’s life what it means to him. This preparation, together with the victory he gets and the woman he gets, makes him ready to be the first judge (Judges 3:9).

The city is captured by Othniel, a young man. His name means ‘lion of God’ or ‘my power is God’. Young people often have to deal with ‘the city of the book’, which is the wisdom of the world. If that city is overcome in spiritual power of faith, the city is renamed Debir, which means ‘place of demand’. This reminds us of the most holy place, the place where God speaks to the high priest and to the people. Debir can also mean ‘a word of God’. Both meanings point to the speaking of God to our hearts.

It is to be desired that all old believers want to be like Caleb who has taken Kiriath-arba, which means ‘city of giants’, to make Hebron, that means ‘fellowship’, out of it. It is to be desired that all young believers want to be like Othniel who takes ‘the city of the book’ to make it ‘a word of God’.

Caleb knows how to encourage young people to fight. He promises the conqueror of Kiriath-sepher his daughter. Othniel seizes that opportunity. Achsah will not only have been attractive to him externally. He will have known her interest in the land, for she shows this.

Caleb also has sons (1 Chronicles 4:15a). They will also have received their portion. But the blessings of the land and taking possession of them is not only for brothers. May the Lord give that there are women like Achsah, who are interested in the inheritance of God and ask for a portion.

Achsah’s interest in the land is first expressed by her stimulating her husband Othniël to ask her father for a field. Women who stimulate their husbands in this way are a real help. Such women are not interested in their husbands taking a prominent position in the church. Such women want that their husbands will achieve spiritual victories.

It will have been a joy for Caleb to comply with Othniel’s request. He gives him a field. Achsah sees that something is missing in the inheritance. Not only does she want to have a land, but she also wants to enjoy fruit from the inheritance. We can point at the amount of bible comments that we have received or purchased or that we know to find on the Internet. But if we don’t want to use those comments to bear fruit, we only own dry land.

Four times in one verse there is talk of ‘give’ (Joshua 15:19). Achsah knows her father as a giving father. If we know God like this, we will ask Him a lot. It is His joy to give to us, but He desires us to ask Him. He loves to give to those who expect something from Him.

Achsah addresses her father appropriately, not boldly or compellingly. She alights from the donkey. Caleb understands that she wants to ask something. She asks for a wedding gift. The dry land does not yield anything. Water is needed and she asks for it. She will have known that Moses has spoken of a land with an abundance of water, both in the valley and on the hill (Deuteronomy 8:7). The water from a spring speaks of the Word of God which is made alive by the Holy Spirit. Upper springs in the mountains make the water flow from top to bottom. Lower springs are in the valleys.

In our lives of faith we are at highlights, but also in valleys. Conferences and personal Bible study can be upper springs, where we are refreshed. But also in the struggles of the life of faith, in the valleys, we need the clear water of the Word to refresh ourselves. Above all, we need the desire of faith of an Achsah to desire such springs.

Often women have a better and greater understanding of what is needed than men. Because they long for it and know how to obtain it, they also get what they long for. Such a one is Mary “who was seated at the Lord’s feet, listening to His word” (Luke 10:39). The Lord Jesus says of her: “Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her” (Luke 10:42). One may still be so familiar with the land, but to enjoy fruit requires a desire.

Joshua 22:4

Caleb, Othniel and Achsah

Kiriath-sepher means ‘city of the book’. It will have been a city of scholarship and literature of the Canaanites. Young people sometimes have to deal with books of the world, with modern literature, which defiles the mind. Then spiritual strength is needed to take and eradicate this stronghold so it will not harm the soul.

It is possible to confront in spiritual power. Parents have a responsibility in this. They need to know what their children need to take in. They don’t have to read such literature themselves, but as Caleb they can offer a reward, a stimulus to overcome in the strength of faith. Parents have a duty to help their children capture that city.

Othniel will not only be inspired by the reward. He himself must have been longing for the land. He will have often heard Uncle Caleb talk about it and seen in his uncle’s life what it means to him. This preparation, together with the victory he gets and the woman he gets, makes him ready to be the first judge (Judges 3:9).

The city is captured by Othniel, a young man. His name means ‘lion of God’ or ‘my power is God’. Young people often have to deal with ‘the city of the book’, which is the wisdom of the world. If that city is overcome in spiritual power of faith, the city is renamed Debir, which means ‘place of demand’. This reminds us of the most holy place, the place where God speaks to the high priest and to the people. Debir can also mean ‘a word of God’. Both meanings point to the speaking of God to our hearts.

It is to be desired that all old believers want to be like Caleb who has taken Kiriath-arba, which means ‘city of giants’, to make Hebron, that means ‘fellowship’, out of it. It is to be desired that all young believers want to be like Othniel who takes ‘the city of the book’ to make it ‘a word of God’.

Caleb knows how to encourage young people to fight. He promises the conqueror of Kiriath-sepher his daughter. Othniel seizes that opportunity. Achsah will not only have been attractive to him externally. He will have known her interest in the land, for she shows this.

Caleb also has sons (1 Chronicles 4:15a). They will also have received their portion. But the blessings of the land and taking possession of them is not only for brothers. May the Lord give that there are women like Achsah, who are interested in the inheritance of God and ask for a portion.

Achsah’s interest in the land is first expressed by her stimulating her husband Othniël to ask her father for a field. Women who stimulate their husbands in this way are a real help. Such women are not interested in their husbands taking a prominent position in the church. Such women want that their husbands will achieve spiritual victories.

It will have been a joy for Caleb to comply with Othniel’s request. He gives him a field. Achsah sees that something is missing in the inheritance. Not only does she want to have a land, but she also wants to enjoy fruit from the inheritance. We can point at the amount of bible comments that we have received or purchased or that we know to find on the Internet. But if we don’t want to use those comments to bear fruit, we only own dry land.

Four times in one verse there is talk of ‘give’ (Joshua 15:19). Achsah knows her father as a giving father. If we know God like this, we will ask Him a lot. It is His joy to give to us, but He desires us to ask Him. He loves to give to those who expect something from Him.

Achsah addresses her father appropriately, not boldly or compellingly. She alights from the donkey. Caleb understands that she wants to ask something. She asks for a wedding gift. The dry land does not yield anything. Water is needed and she asks for it. She will have known that Moses has spoken of a land with an abundance of water, both in the valley and on the hill (Deuteronomy 8:7). The water from a spring speaks of the Word of God which is made alive by the Holy Spirit. Upper springs in the mountains make the water flow from top to bottom. Lower springs are in the valleys.

In our lives of faith we are at highlights, but also in valleys. Conferences and personal Bible study can be upper springs, where we are refreshed. But also in the struggles of the life of faith, in the valleys, we need the clear water of the Word to refresh ourselves. Above all, we need the desire of faith of an Achsah to desire such springs.

Often women have a better and greater understanding of what is needed than men. Because they long for it and know how to obtain it, they also get what they long for. Such a one is Mary “who was seated at the Lord’s feet, listening to His word” (Luke 10:39). The Lord Jesus says of her: “Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her” (Luke 10:42). One may still be so familiar with the land, but to enjoy fruit requires a desire.

Joshua 22:5

Caleb, Othniel and Achsah

Kiriath-sepher means ‘city of the book’. It will have been a city of scholarship and literature of the Canaanites. Young people sometimes have to deal with books of the world, with modern literature, which defiles the mind. Then spiritual strength is needed to take and eradicate this stronghold so it will not harm the soul.

It is possible to confront in spiritual power. Parents have a responsibility in this. They need to know what their children need to take in. They don’t have to read such literature themselves, but as Caleb they can offer a reward, a stimulus to overcome in the strength of faith. Parents have a duty to help their children capture that city.

Othniel will not only be inspired by the reward. He himself must have been longing for the land. He will have often heard Uncle Caleb talk about it and seen in his uncle’s life what it means to him. This preparation, together with the victory he gets and the woman he gets, makes him ready to be the first judge (Judges 3:9).

The city is captured by Othniel, a young man. His name means ‘lion of God’ or ‘my power is God’. Young people often have to deal with ‘the city of the book’, which is the wisdom of the world. If that city is overcome in spiritual power of faith, the city is renamed Debir, which means ‘place of demand’. This reminds us of the most holy place, the place where God speaks to the high priest and to the people. Debir can also mean ‘a word of God’. Both meanings point to the speaking of God to our hearts.

It is to be desired that all old believers want to be like Caleb who has taken Kiriath-arba, which means ‘city of giants’, to make Hebron, that means ‘fellowship’, out of it. It is to be desired that all young believers want to be like Othniel who takes ‘the city of the book’ to make it ‘a word of God’.

Caleb knows how to encourage young people to fight. He promises the conqueror of Kiriath-sepher his daughter. Othniel seizes that opportunity. Achsah will not only have been attractive to him externally. He will have known her interest in the land, for she shows this.

Caleb also has sons (1 Chronicles 4:15a). They will also have received their portion. But the blessings of the land and taking possession of them is not only for brothers. May the Lord give that there are women like Achsah, who are interested in the inheritance of God and ask for a portion.

Achsah’s interest in the land is first expressed by her stimulating her husband Othniël to ask her father for a field. Women who stimulate their husbands in this way are a real help. Such women are not interested in their husbands taking a prominent position in the church. Such women want that their husbands will achieve spiritual victories.

It will have been a joy for Caleb to comply with Othniel’s request. He gives him a field. Achsah sees that something is missing in the inheritance. Not only does she want to have a land, but she also wants to enjoy fruit from the inheritance. We can point at the amount of bible comments that we have received or purchased or that we know to find on the Internet. But if we don’t want to use those comments to bear fruit, we only own dry land.

Four times in one verse there is talk of ‘give’ (Joshua 15:19). Achsah knows her father as a giving father. If we know God like this, we will ask Him a lot. It is His joy to give to us, but He desires us to ask Him. He loves to give to those who expect something from Him.

Achsah addresses her father appropriately, not boldly or compellingly. She alights from the donkey. Caleb understands that she wants to ask something. She asks for a wedding gift. The dry land does not yield anything. Water is needed and she asks for it. She will have known that Moses has spoken of a land with an abundance of water, both in the valley and on the hill (Deuteronomy 8:7). The water from a spring speaks of the Word of God which is made alive by the Holy Spirit. Upper springs in the mountains make the water flow from top to bottom. Lower springs are in the valleys.

In our lives of faith we are at highlights, but also in valleys. Conferences and personal Bible study can be upper springs, where we are refreshed. But also in the struggles of the life of faith, in the valleys, we need the clear water of the Word to refresh ourselves. Above all, we need the desire of faith of an Achsah to desire such springs.

Often women have a better and greater understanding of what is needed than men. Because they long for it and know how to obtain it, they also get what they long for. Such a one is Mary “who was seated at the Lord’s feet, listening to His word” (Luke 10:39). The Lord Jesus says of her: “Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her” (Luke 10:42). One may still be so familiar with the land, but to enjoy fruit requires a desire.

Joshua 22:6

Cities and Villages in Judah

Here the towns and villages are named according to the different territories in which they are located. In this way, the inheritance is enjoyed, in these different contexts. A village is not what we understand by it. It is more like a hamlet consisting of one family or two families of which the members live and work together. It speaks of individual believers who share blessings with each other in a smaller context, for example a family context.

A city speaks more of a local church. Every family is different, as is every local church. We notice this when we read the letters to the various churches in the New Testament. Taking possession of the land is not something of the study room, to enjoy those things only for ourselves. It is something we share with our families, fathers, mothers and children or also with the brothers and sisters with whom we form a local church.

If we don’t, we will capture the inheritance as Reuben and Gad did. Of these tribes only the men have captured the inheritance. Although, they did not do this for themselves, but for others. Their wives and children have never seen the inheritance. Not sharing with others what we have taken possession of is also visible in Ephraim and Manasseh: there are hardly any villages and towns mentioned of them. Judah really is a tribe after the thoughts of God.

Can each local church be considered a city, in the wilderness or in the mountains? We are all needed to build up each other and complement each other. This happens mainly in the local Bible reading. Can the church where we are be considered a church in the wilderness or in the mountain? Is it a city in the land, i.e. is it a church where the blessings of heaven are enjoyed, either in relation to life on earth or in relation to the position of believers in Christ?

Spiritually speaking, the border of Judah is a curious border. No tribe has a view like Judah. Those who live in the south have the view on Edom (Joshua 15:21-32). Edom is a brother nation and at the same time the most hateful enemy. Edom speaks of the flesh in the believer. This limit may not be crossed, that is to say that the flesh may not have the opportunity to enter the inheritance, because that will result in destruction of (the enjoyment of) the inheritance.

Then Joshua 15:33-47 mention the cities in the lowland. That is the low part of the land between the sea and the mountains of Judea. The low speaks of the realm of Christian life where heavenly blessings are shown, the practical life of faith of every day. In the letter to the Ephesians, those territories are seen in marriages and families and working environment. Wives and husbands (Ephesians 5:22-33), children and parents (Ephesians 6:1-4), slaves and masters are all addressed (Ephesians 6:5-9).

There are also cities in the hill country (Joshua 15:48-60). This relates to knowing the blessings in Christ in the heavenly places. Paul prays for the believers in Ephesus that they will know their blessings (Ephesians 1:17-21). John is carried away “in the spirit to a great and high mountain” to see the new Jerusalem, that is the church (Revelation 21:10). Churches like Ephesus are located “in the hill country”. Are there still such churches in professing Christianity today?

Finally, the cities are mentioned in the wilderness of Judea, east of the mountains to the Dead Sea (Joshua 15:61-62). Judea is constantly reminded of the wilderness, its aridity. The awareness of all the blessings in heaven also includes the awareness that this world has nothing to offer for faith. In the kingdom of peace, however, the wilderness will blossom profusely “like the crocus” (Isaiah 35:1). That is what faith looks forward to.

Joshua 22:7

Cities and Villages in Judah

Here the towns and villages are named according to the different territories in which they are located. In this way, the inheritance is enjoyed, in these different contexts. A village is not what we understand by it. It is more like a hamlet consisting of one family or two families of which the members live and work together. It speaks of individual believers who share blessings with each other in a smaller context, for example a family context.

A city speaks more of a local church. Every family is different, as is every local church. We notice this when we read the letters to the various churches in the New Testament. Taking possession of the land is not something of the study room, to enjoy those things only for ourselves. It is something we share with our families, fathers, mothers and children or also with the brothers and sisters with whom we form a local church.

If we don’t, we will capture the inheritance as Reuben and Gad did. Of these tribes only the men have captured the inheritance. Although, they did not do this for themselves, but for others. Their wives and children have never seen the inheritance. Not sharing with others what we have taken possession of is also visible in Ephraim and Manasseh: there are hardly any villages and towns mentioned of them. Judah really is a tribe after the thoughts of God.

Can each local church be considered a city, in the wilderness or in the mountains? We are all needed to build up each other and complement each other. This happens mainly in the local Bible reading. Can the church where we are be considered a church in the wilderness or in the mountain? Is it a city in the land, i.e. is it a church where the blessings of heaven are enjoyed, either in relation to life on earth or in relation to the position of believers in Christ?

Spiritually speaking, the border of Judah is a curious border. No tribe has a view like Judah. Those who live in the south have the view on Edom (Joshua 15:21-32). Edom is a brother nation and at the same time the most hateful enemy. Edom speaks of the flesh in the believer. This limit may not be crossed, that is to say that the flesh may not have the opportunity to enter the inheritance, because that will result in destruction of (the enjoyment of) the inheritance.

Then Joshua 15:33-47 mention the cities in the lowland. That is the low part of the land between the sea and the mountains of Judea. The low speaks of the realm of Christian life where heavenly blessings are shown, the practical life of faith of every day. In the letter to the Ephesians, those territories are seen in marriages and families and working environment. Wives and husbands (Ephesians 5:22-33), children and parents (Ephesians 6:1-4), slaves and masters are all addressed (Ephesians 6:5-9).

There are also cities in the hill country (Joshua 15:48-60). This relates to knowing the blessings in Christ in the heavenly places. Paul prays for the believers in Ephesus that they will know their blessings (Ephesians 1:17-21). John is carried away “in the spirit to a great and high mountain” to see the new Jerusalem, that is the church (Revelation 21:10). Churches like Ephesus are located “in the hill country”. Are there still such churches in professing Christianity today?

Finally, the cities are mentioned in the wilderness of Judea, east of the mountains to the Dead Sea (Joshua 15:61-62). Judea is constantly reminded of the wilderness, its aridity. The awareness of all the blessings in heaven also includes the awareness that this world has nothing to offer for faith. In the kingdom of peace, however, the wilderness will blossom profusely “like the crocus” (Isaiah 35:1). That is what faith looks forward to.

Joshua 22:8

Cities and Villages in Judah

Here the towns and villages are named according to the different territories in which they are located. In this way, the inheritance is enjoyed, in these different contexts. A village is not what we understand by it. It is more like a hamlet consisting of one family or two families of which the members live and work together. It speaks of individual believers who share blessings with each other in a smaller context, for example a family context.

A city speaks more of a local church. Every family is different, as is every local church. We notice this when we read the letters to the various churches in the New Testament. Taking possession of the land is not something of the study room, to enjoy those things only for ourselves. It is something we share with our families, fathers, mothers and children or also with the brothers and sisters with whom we form a local church.

If we don’t, we will capture the inheritance as Reuben and Gad did. Of these tribes only the men have captured the inheritance. Although, they did not do this for themselves, but for others. Their wives and children have never seen the inheritance. Not sharing with others what we have taken possession of is also visible in Ephraim and Manasseh: there are hardly any villages and towns mentioned of them. Judah really is a tribe after the thoughts of God.

Can each local church be considered a city, in the wilderness or in the mountains? We are all needed to build up each other and complement each other. This happens mainly in the local Bible reading. Can the church where we are be considered a church in the wilderness or in the mountain? Is it a city in the land, i.e. is it a church where the blessings of heaven are enjoyed, either in relation to life on earth or in relation to the position of believers in Christ?

Spiritually speaking, the border of Judah is a curious border. No tribe has a view like Judah. Those who live in the south have the view on Edom (Joshua 15:21-32). Edom is a brother nation and at the same time the most hateful enemy. Edom speaks of the flesh in the believer. This limit may not be crossed, that is to say that the flesh may not have the opportunity to enter the inheritance, because that will result in destruction of (the enjoyment of) the inheritance.

Then Joshua 15:33-47 mention the cities in the lowland. That is the low part of the land between the sea and the mountains of Judea. The low speaks of the realm of Christian life where heavenly blessings are shown, the practical life of faith of every day. In the letter to the Ephesians, those territories are seen in marriages and families and working environment. Wives and husbands (Ephesians 5:22-33), children and parents (Ephesians 6:1-4), slaves and masters are all addressed (Ephesians 6:5-9).

There are also cities in the hill country (Joshua 15:48-60). This relates to knowing the blessings in Christ in the heavenly places. Paul prays for the believers in Ephesus that they will know their blessings (Ephesians 1:17-21). John is carried away “in the spirit to a great and high mountain” to see the new Jerusalem, that is the church (Revelation 21:10). Churches like Ephesus are located “in the hill country”. Are there still such churches in professing Christianity today?

Finally, the cities are mentioned in the wilderness of Judea, east of the mountains to the Dead Sea (Joshua 15:61-62). Judea is constantly reminded of the wilderness, its aridity. The awareness of all the blessings in heaven also includes the awareness that this world has nothing to offer for faith. In the kingdom of peace, however, the wilderness will blossom profusely “like the crocus” (Isaiah 35:1). That is what faith looks forward to.

Joshua 22:9

Cities and Villages in Judah

Here the towns and villages are named according to the different territories in which they are located. In this way, the inheritance is enjoyed, in these different contexts. A village is not what we understand by it. It is more like a hamlet consisting of one family or two families of which the members live and work together. It speaks of individual believers who share blessings with each other in a smaller context, for example a family context.

A city speaks more of a local church. Every family is different, as is every local church. We notice this when we read the letters to the various churches in the New Testament. Taking possession of the land is not something of the study room, to enjoy those things only for ourselves. It is something we share with our families, fathers, mothers and children or also with the brothers and sisters with whom we form a local church.

If we don’t, we will capture the inheritance as Reuben and Gad did. Of these tribes only the men have captured the inheritance. Although, they did not do this for themselves, but for others. Their wives and children have never seen the inheritance. Not sharing with others what we have taken possession of is also visible in Ephraim and Manasseh: there are hardly any villages and towns mentioned of them. Judah really is a tribe after the thoughts of God.

Can each local church be considered a city, in the wilderness or in the mountains? We are all needed to build up each other and complement each other. This happens mainly in the local Bible reading. Can the church where we are be considered a church in the wilderness or in the mountain? Is it a city in the land, i.e. is it a church where the blessings of heaven are enjoyed, either in relation to life on earth or in relation to the position of believers in Christ?

Spiritually speaking, the border of Judah is a curious border. No tribe has a view like Judah. Those who live in the south have the view on Edom (Joshua 15:21-32). Edom is a brother nation and at the same time the most hateful enemy. Edom speaks of the flesh in the believer. This limit may not be crossed, that is to say that the flesh may not have the opportunity to enter the inheritance, because that will result in destruction of (the enjoyment of) the inheritance.

Then Joshua 15:33-47 mention the cities in the lowland. That is the low part of the land between the sea and the mountains of Judea. The low speaks of the realm of Christian life where heavenly blessings are shown, the practical life of faith of every day. In the letter to the Ephesians, those territories are seen in marriages and families and working environment. Wives and husbands (Ephesians 5:22-33), children and parents (Ephesians 6:1-4), slaves and masters are all addressed (Ephesians 6:5-9).

There are also cities in the hill country (Joshua 15:48-60). This relates to knowing the blessings in Christ in the heavenly places. Paul prays for the believers in Ephesus that they will know their blessings (Ephesians 1:17-21). John is carried away “in the spirit to a great and high mountain” to see the new Jerusalem, that is the church (Revelation 21:10). Churches like Ephesus are located “in the hill country”. Are there still such churches in professing Christianity today?

Finally, the cities are mentioned in the wilderness of Judea, east of the mountains to the Dead Sea (Joshua 15:61-62). Judea is constantly reminded of the wilderness, its aridity. The awareness of all the blessings in heaven also includes the awareness that this world has nothing to offer for faith. In the kingdom of peace, however, the wilderness will blossom profusely “like the crocus” (Isaiah 35:1). That is what faith looks forward to.

Joshua 22:10

Cities and Villages in Judah

Here the towns and villages are named according to the different territories in which they are located. In this way, the inheritance is enjoyed, in these different contexts. A village is not what we understand by it. It is more like a hamlet consisting of one family or two families of which the members live and work together. It speaks of individual believers who share blessings with each other in a smaller context, for example a family context.

A city speaks more of a local church. Every family is different, as is every local church. We notice this when we read the letters to the various churches in the New Testament. Taking possession of the land is not something of the study room, to enjoy those things only for ourselves. It is something we share with our families, fathers, mothers and children or also with the brothers and sisters with whom we form a local church.

If we don’t, we will capture the inheritance as Reuben and Gad did. Of these tribes only the men have captured the inheritance. Although, they did not do this for themselves, but for others. Their wives and children have never seen the inheritance. Not sharing with others what we have taken possession of is also visible in Ephraim and Manasseh: there are hardly any villages and towns mentioned of them. Judah really is a tribe after the thoughts of God.

Can each local church be considered a city, in the wilderness or in the mountains? We are all needed to build up each other and complement each other. This happens mainly in the local Bible reading. Can the church where we are be considered a church in the wilderness or in the mountain? Is it a city in the land, i.e. is it a church where the blessings of heaven are enjoyed, either in relation to life on earth or in relation to the position of believers in Christ?

Spiritually speaking, the border of Judah is a curious border. No tribe has a view like Judah. Those who live in the south have the view on Edom (Joshua 15:21-32). Edom is a brother nation and at the same time the most hateful enemy. Edom speaks of the flesh in the believer. This limit may not be crossed, that is to say that the flesh may not have the opportunity to enter the inheritance, because that will result in destruction of (the enjoyment of) the inheritance.

Then Joshua 15:33-47 mention the cities in the lowland. That is the low part of the land between the sea and the mountains of Judea. The low speaks of the realm of Christian life where heavenly blessings are shown, the practical life of faith of every day. In the letter to the Ephesians, those territories are seen in marriages and families and working environment. Wives and husbands (Ephesians 5:22-33), children and parents (Ephesians 6:1-4), slaves and masters are all addressed (Ephesians 6:5-9).

There are also cities in the hill country (Joshua 15:48-60). This relates to knowing the blessings in Christ in the heavenly places. Paul prays for the believers in Ephesus that they will know their blessings (Ephesians 1:17-21). John is carried away “in the spirit to a great and high mountain” to see the new Jerusalem, that is the church (Revelation 21:10). Churches like Ephesus are located “in the hill country”. Are there still such churches in professing Christianity today?

Finally, the cities are mentioned in the wilderness of Judea, east of the mountains to the Dead Sea (Joshua 15:61-62). Judea is constantly reminded of the wilderness, its aridity. The awareness of all the blessings in heaven also includes the awareness that this world has nothing to offer for faith. In the kingdom of peace, however, the wilderness will blossom profusely “like the crocus” (Isaiah 35:1). That is what faith looks forward to.

Joshua 22:11

Cities and Villages in Judah

Here the towns and villages are named according to the different territories in which they are located. In this way, the inheritance is enjoyed, in these different contexts. A village is not what we understand by it. It is more like a hamlet consisting of one family or two families of which the members live and work together. It speaks of individual believers who share blessings with each other in a smaller context, for example a family context.

A city speaks more of a local church. Every family is different, as is every local church. We notice this when we read the letters to the various churches in the New Testament. Taking possession of the land is not something of the study room, to enjoy those things only for ourselves. It is something we share with our families, fathers, mothers and children or also with the brothers and sisters with whom we form a local church.

If we don’t, we will capture the inheritance as Reuben and Gad did. Of these tribes only the men have captured the inheritance. Although, they did not do this for themselves, but for others. Their wives and children have never seen the inheritance. Not sharing with others what we have taken possession of is also visible in Ephraim and Manasseh: there are hardly any villages and towns mentioned of them. Judah really is a tribe after the thoughts of God.

Can each local church be considered a city, in the wilderness or in the mountains? We are all needed to build up each other and complement each other. This happens mainly in the local Bible reading. Can the church where we are be considered a church in the wilderness or in the mountain? Is it a city in the land, i.e. is it a church where the blessings of heaven are enjoyed, either in relation to life on earth or in relation to the position of believers in Christ?

Spiritually speaking, the border of Judah is a curious border. No tribe has a view like Judah. Those who live in the south have the view on Edom (Joshua 15:21-32). Edom is a brother nation and at the same time the most hateful enemy. Edom speaks of the flesh in the believer. This limit may not be crossed, that is to say that the flesh may not have the opportunity to enter the inheritance, because that will result in destruction of (the enjoyment of) the inheritance.

Then Joshua 15:33-47 mention the cities in the lowland. That is the low part of the land between the sea and the mountains of Judea. The low speaks of the realm of Christian life where heavenly blessings are shown, the practical life of faith of every day. In the letter to the Ephesians, those territories are seen in marriages and families and working environment. Wives and husbands (Ephesians 5:22-33), children and parents (Ephesians 6:1-4), slaves and masters are all addressed (Ephesians 6:5-9).

There are also cities in the hill country (Joshua 15:48-60). This relates to knowing the blessings in Christ in the heavenly places. Paul prays for the believers in Ephesus that they will know their blessings (Ephesians 1:17-21). John is carried away “in the spirit to a great and high mountain” to see the new Jerusalem, that is the church (Revelation 21:10). Churches like Ephesus are located “in the hill country”. Are there still such churches in professing Christianity today?

Finally, the cities are mentioned in the wilderness of Judea, east of the mountains to the Dead Sea (Joshua 15:61-62). Judea is constantly reminded of the wilderness, its aridity. The awareness of all the blessings in heaven also includes the awareness that this world has nothing to offer for faith. In the kingdom of peace, however, the wilderness will blossom profusely “like the crocus” (Isaiah 35:1). That is what faith looks forward to.

Joshua 22:12

Cities and Villages in Judah

Here the towns and villages are named according to the different territories in which they are located. In this way, the inheritance is enjoyed, in these different contexts. A village is not what we understand by it. It is more like a hamlet consisting of one family or two families of which the members live and work together. It speaks of individual believers who share blessings with each other in a smaller context, for example a family context.

A city speaks more of a local church. Every family is different, as is every local church. We notice this when we read the letters to the various churches in the New Testament. Taking possession of the land is not something of the study room, to enjoy those things only for ourselves. It is something we share with our families, fathers, mothers and children or also with the brothers and sisters with whom we form a local church.

If we don’t, we will capture the inheritance as Reuben and Gad did. Of these tribes only the men have captured the inheritance. Although, they did not do this for themselves, but for others. Their wives and children have never seen the inheritance. Not sharing with others what we have taken possession of is also visible in Ephraim and Manasseh: there are hardly any villages and towns mentioned of them. Judah really is a tribe after the thoughts of God.

Can each local church be considered a city, in the wilderness or in the mountains? We are all needed to build up each other and complement each other. This happens mainly in the local Bible reading. Can the church where we are be considered a church in the wilderness or in the mountain? Is it a city in the land, i.e. is it a church where the blessings of heaven are enjoyed, either in relation to life on earth or in relation to the position of believers in Christ?

Spiritually speaking, the border of Judah is a curious border. No tribe has a view like Judah. Those who live in the south have the view on Edom (Joshua 15:21-32). Edom is a brother nation and at the same time the most hateful enemy. Edom speaks of the flesh in the believer. This limit may not be crossed, that is to say that the flesh may not have the opportunity to enter the inheritance, because that will result in destruction of (the enjoyment of) the inheritance.

Then Joshua 15:33-47 mention the cities in the lowland. That is the low part of the land between the sea and the mountains of Judea. The low speaks of the realm of Christian life where heavenly blessings are shown, the practical life of faith of every day. In the letter to the Ephesians, those territories are seen in marriages and families and working environment. Wives and husbands (Ephesians 5:22-33), children and parents (Ephesians 6:1-4), slaves and masters are all addressed (Ephesians 6:5-9).

There are also cities in the hill country (Joshua 15:48-60). This relates to knowing the blessings in Christ in the heavenly places. Paul prays for the believers in Ephesus that they will know their blessings (Ephesians 1:17-21). John is carried away “in the spirit to a great and high mountain” to see the new Jerusalem, that is the church (Revelation 21:10). Churches like Ephesus are located “in the hill country”. Are there still such churches in professing Christianity today?

Finally, the cities are mentioned in the wilderness of Judea, east of the mountains to the Dead Sea (Joshua 15:61-62). Judea is constantly reminded of the wilderness, its aridity. The awareness of all the blessings in heaven also includes the awareness that this world has nothing to offer for faith. In the kingdom of peace, however, the wilderness will blossom profusely “like the crocus” (Isaiah 35:1). That is what faith looks forward to.

Joshua 22:13

Cities and Villages in Judah

Here the towns and villages are named according to the different territories in which they are located. In this way, the inheritance is enjoyed, in these different contexts. A village is not what we understand by it. It is more like a hamlet consisting of one family or two families of which the members live and work together. It speaks of individual believers who share blessings with each other in a smaller context, for example a family context.

A city speaks more of a local church. Every family is different, as is every local church. We notice this when we read the letters to the various churches in the New Testament. Taking possession of the land is not something of the study room, to enjoy those things only for ourselves. It is something we share with our families, fathers, mothers and children or also with the brothers and sisters with whom we form a local church.

If we don’t, we will capture the inheritance as Reuben and Gad did. Of these tribes only the men have captured the inheritance. Although, they did not do this for themselves, but for others. Their wives and children have never seen the inheritance. Not sharing with others what we have taken possession of is also visible in Ephraim and Manasseh: there are hardly any villages and towns mentioned of them. Judah really is a tribe after the thoughts of God.

Can each local church be considered a city, in the wilderness or in the mountains? We are all needed to build up each other and complement each other. This happens mainly in the local Bible reading. Can the church where we are be considered a church in the wilderness or in the mountain? Is it a city in the land, i.e. is it a church where the blessings of heaven are enjoyed, either in relation to life on earth or in relation to the position of believers in Christ?

Spiritually speaking, the border of Judah is a curious border. No tribe has a view like Judah. Those who live in the south have the view on Edom (Joshua 15:21-32). Edom is a brother nation and at the same time the most hateful enemy. Edom speaks of the flesh in the believer. This limit may not be crossed, that is to say that the flesh may not have the opportunity to enter the inheritance, because that will result in destruction of (the enjoyment of) the inheritance.

Then Joshua 15:33-47 mention the cities in the lowland. That is the low part of the land between the sea and the mountains of Judea. The low speaks of the realm of Christian life where heavenly blessings are shown, the practical life of faith of every day. In the letter to the Ephesians, those territories are seen in marriages and families and working environment. Wives and husbands (Ephesians 5:22-33), children and parents (Ephesians 6:1-4), slaves and masters are all addressed (Ephesians 6:5-9).

There are also cities in the hill country (Joshua 15:48-60). This relates to knowing the blessings in Christ in the heavenly places. Paul prays for the believers in Ephesus that they will know their blessings (Ephesians 1:17-21). John is carried away “in the spirit to a great and high mountain” to see the new Jerusalem, that is the church (Revelation 21:10). Churches like Ephesus are located “in the hill country”. Are there still such churches in professing Christianity today?

Finally, the cities are mentioned in the wilderness of Judea, east of the mountains to the Dead Sea (Joshua 15:61-62). Judea is constantly reminded of the wilderness, its aridity. The awareness of all the blessings in heaven also includes the awareness that this world has nothing to offer for faith. In the kingdom of peace, however, the wilderness will blossom profusely “like the crocus” (Isaiah 35:1). That is what faith looks forward to.

Joshua 22:14

Cities and Villages in Judah

Here the towns and villages are named according to the different territories in which they are located. In this way, the inheritance is enjoyed, in these different contexts. A village is not what we understand by it. It is more like a hamlet consisting of one family or two families of which the members live and work together. It speaks of individual believers who share blessings with each other in a smaller context, for example a family context.

A city speaks more of a local church. Every family is different, as is every local church. We notice this when we read the letters to the various churches in the New Testament. Taking possession of the land is not something of the study room, to enjoy those things only for ourselves. It is something we share with our families, fathers, mothers and children or also with the brothers and sisters with whom we form a local church.

If we don’t, we will capture the inheritance as Reuben and Gad did. Of these tribes only the men have captured the inheritance. Although, they did not do this for themselves, but for others. Their wives and children have never seen the inheritance. Not sharing with others what we have taken possession of is also visible in Ephraim and Manasseh: there are hardly any villages and towns mentioned of them. Judah really is a tribe after the thoughts of God.

Can each local church be considered a city, in the wilderness or in the mountains? We are all needed to build up each other and complement each other. This happens mainly in the local Bible reading. Can the church where we are be considered a church in the wilderness or in the mountain? Is it a city in the land, i.e. is it a church where the blessings of heaven are enjoyed, either in relation to life on earth or in relation to the position of believers in Christ?

Spiritually speaking, the border of Judah is a curious border. No tribe has a view like Judah. Those who live in the south have the view on Edom (Joshua 15:21-32). Edom is a brother nation and at the same time the most hateful enemy. Edom speaks of the flesh in the believer. This limit may not be crossed, that is to say that the flesh may not have the opportunity to enter the inheritance, because that will result in destruction of (the enjoyment of) the inheritance.

Then Joshua 15:33-47 mention the cities in the lowland. That is the low part of the land between the sea and the mountains of Judea. The low speaks of the realm of Christian life where heavenly blessings are shown, the practical life of faith of every day. In the letter to the Ephesians, those territories are seen in marriages and families and working environment. Wives and husbands (Ephesians 5:22-33), children and parents (Ephesians 6:1-4), slaves and masters are all addressed (Ephesians 6:5-9).

There are also cities in the hill country (Joshua 15:48-60). This relates to knowing the blessings in Christ in the heavenly places. Paul prays for the believers in Ephesus that they will know their blessings (Ephesians 1:17-21). John is carried away “in the spirit to a great and high mountain” to see the new Jerusalem, that is the church (Revelation 21:10). Churches like Ephesus are located “in the hill country”. Are there still such churches in professing Christianity today?

Finally, the cities are mentioned in the wilderness of Judea, east of the mountains to the Dead Sea (Joshua 15:61-62). Judea is constantly reminded of the wilderness, its aridity. The awareness of all the blessings in heaven also includes the awareness that this world has nothing to offer for faith. In the kingdom of peace, however, the wilderness will blossom profusely “like the crocus” (Isaiah 35:1). That is what faith looks forward to.

Joshua 22:15

Cities and Villages in Judah

Here the towns and villages are named according to the different territories in which they are located. In this way, the inheritance is enjoyed, in these different contexts. A village is not what we understand by it. It is more like a hamlet consisting of one family or two families of which the members live and work together. It speaks of individual believers who share blessings with each other in a smaller context, for example a family context.

A city speaks more of a local church. Every family is different, as is every local church. We notice this when we read the letters to the various churches in the New Testament. Taking possession of the land is not something of the study room, to enjoy those things only for ourselves. It is something we share with our families, fathers, mothers and children or also with the brothers and sisters with whom we form a local church.

If we don’t, we will capture the inheritance as Reuben and Gad did. Of these tribes only the men have captured the inheritance. Although, they did not do this for themselves, but for others. Their wives and children have never seen the inheritance. Not sharing with others what we have taken possession of is also visible in Ephraim and Manasseh: there are hardly any villages and towns mentioned of them. Judah really is a tribe after the thoughts of God.

Can each local church be considered a city, in the wilderness or in the mountains? We are all needed to build up each other and complement each other. This happens mainly in the local Bible reading. Can the church where we are be considered a church in the wilderness or in the mountain? Is it a city in the land, i.e. is it a church where the blessings of heaven are enjoyed, either in relation to life on earth or in relation to the position of believers in Christ?

Spiritually speaking, the border of Judah is a curious border. No tribe has a view like Judah. Those who live in the south have the view on Edom (Joshua 15:21-32). Edom is a brother nation and at the same time the most hateful enemy. Edom speaks of the flesh in the believer. This limit may not be crossed, that is to say that the flesh may not have the opportunity to enter the inheritance, because that will result in destruction of (the enjoyment of) the inheritance.

Then Joshua 15:33-47 mention the cities in the lowland. That is the low part of the land between the sea and the mountains of Judea. The low speaks of the realm of Christian life where heavenly blessings are shown, the practical life of faith of every day. In the letter to the Ephesians, those territories are seen in marriages and families and working environment. Wives and husbands (Ephesians 5:22-33), children and parents (Ephesians 6:1-4), slaves and masters are all addressed (Ephesians 6:5-9).

There are also cities in the hill country (Joshua 15:48-60). This relates to knowing the blessings in Christ in the heavenly places. Paul prays for the believers in Ephesus that they will know their blessings (Ephesians 1:17-21). John is carried away “in the spirit to a great and high mountain” to see the new Jerusalem, that is the church (Revelation 21:10). Churches like Ephesus are located “in the hill country”. Are there still such churches in professing Christianity today?

Finally, the cities are mentioned in the wilderness of Judea, east of the mountains to the Dead Sea (Joshua 15:61-62). Judea is constantly reminded of the wilderness, its aridity. The awareness of all the blessings in heaven also includes the awareness that this world has nothing to offer for faith. In the kingdom of peace, however, the wilderness will blossom profusely “like the crocus” (Isaiah 35:1). That is what faith looks forward to.

Joshua 22:16

Cities and Villages in Judah

Here the towns and villages are named according to the different territories in which they are located. In this way, the inheritance is enjoyed, in these different contexts. A village is not what we understand by it. It is more like a hamlet consisting of one family or two families of which the members live and work together. It speaks of individual believers who share blessings with each other in a smaller context, for example a family context.

A city speaks more of a local church. Every family is different, as is every local church. We notice this when we read the letters to the various churches in the New Testament. Taking possession of the land is not something of the study room, to enjoy those things only for ourselves. It is something we share with our families, fathers, mothers and children or also with the brothers and sisters with whom we form a local church.

If we don’t, we will capture the inheritance as Reuben and Gad did. Of these tribes only the men have captured the inheritance. Although, they did not do this for themselves, but for others. Their wives and children have never seen the inheritance. Not sharing with others what we have taken possession of is also visible in Ephraim and Manasseh: there are hardly any villages and towns mentioned of them. Judah really is a tribe after the thoughts of God.

Can each local church be considered a city, in the wilderness or in the mountains? We are all needed to build up each other and complement each other. This happens mainly in the local Bible reading. Can the church where we are be considered a church in the wilderness or in the mountain? Is it a city in the land, i.e. is it a church where the blessings of heaven are enjoyed, either in relation to life on earth or in relation to the position of believers in Christ?

Spiritually speaking, the border of Judah is a curious border. No tribe has a view like Judah. Those who live in the south have the view on Edom (Joshua 15:21-32). Edom is a brother nation and at the same time the most hateful enemy. Edom speaks of the flesh in the believer. This limit may not be crossed, that is to say that the flesh may not have the opportunity to enter the inheritance, because that will result in destruction of (the enjoyment of) the inheritance.

Then Joshua 15:33-47 mention the cities in the lowland. That is the low part of the land between the sea and the mountains of Judea. The low speaks of the realm of Christian life where heavenly blessings are shown, the practical life of faith of every day. In the letter to the Ephesians, those territories are seen in marriages and families and working environment. Wives and husbands (Ephesians 5:22-33), children and parents (Ephesians 6:1-4), slaves and masters are all addressed (Ephesians 6:5-9).

There are also cities in the hill country (Joshua 15:48-60). This relates to knowing the blessings in Christ in the heavenly places. Paul prays for the believers in Ephesus that they will know their blessings (Ephesians 1:17-21). John is carried away “in the spirit to a great and high mountain” to see the new Jerusalem, that is the church (Revelation 21:10). Churches like Ephesus are located “in the hill country”. Are there still such churches in professing Christianity today?

Finally, the cities are mentioned in the wilderness of Judea, east of the mountains to the Dead Sea (Joshua 15:61-62). Judea is constantly reminded of the wilderness, its aridity. The awareness of all the blessings in heaven also includes the awareness that this world has nothing to offer for faith. In the kingdom of peace, however, the wilderness will blossom profusely “like the crocus” (Isaiah 35:1). That is what faith looks forward to.

Joshua 22:17

Cities and Villages in Judah

Here the towns and villages are named according to the different territories in which they are located. In this way, the inheritance is enjoyed, in these different contexts. A village is not what we understand by it. It is more like a hamlet consisting of one family or two families of which the members live and work together. It speaks of individual believers who share blessings with each other in a smaller context, for example a family context.

A city speaks more of a local church. Every family is different, as is every local church. We notice this when we read the letters to the various churches in the New Testament. Taking possession of the land is not something of the study room, to enjoy those things only for ourselves. It is something we share with our families, fathers, mothers and children or also with the brothers and sisters with whom we form a local church.

If we don’t, we will capture the inheritance as Reuben and Gad did. Of these tribes only the men have captured the inheritance. Although, they did not do this for themselves, but for others. Their wives and children have never seen the inheritance. Not sharing with others what we have taken possession of is also visible in Ephraim and Manasseh: there are hardly any villages and towns mentioned of them. Judah really is a tribe after the thoughts of God.

Can each local church be considered a city, in the wilderness or in the mountains? We are all needed to build up each other and complement each other. This happens mainly in the local Bible reading. Can the church where we are be considered a church in the wilderness or in the mountain? Is it a city in the land, i.e. is it a church where the blessings of heaven are enjoyed, either in relation to life on earth or in relation to the position of believers in Christ?

Spiritually speaking, the border of Judah is a curious border. No tribe has a view like Judah. Those who live in the south have the view on Edom (Joshua 15:21-32). Edom is a brother nation and at the same time the most hateful enemy. Edom speaks of the flesh in the believer. This limit may not be crossed, that is to say that the flesh may not have the opportunity to enter the inheritance, because that will result in destruction of (the enjoyment of) the inheritance.

Then Joshua 15:33-47 mention the cities in the lowland. That is the low part of the land between the sea and the mountains of Judea. The low speaks of the realm of Christian life where heavenly blessings are shown, the practical life of faith of every day. In the letter to the Ephesians, those territories are seen in marriages and families and working environment. Wives and husbands (Ephesians 5:22-33), children and parents (Ephesians 6:1-4), slaves and masters are all addressed (Ephesians 6:5-9).

There are also cities in the hill country (Joshua 15:48-60). This relates to knowing the blessings in Christ in the heavenly places. Paul prays for the believers in Ephesus that they will know their blessings (Ephesians 1:17-21). John is carried away “in the spirit to a great and high mountain” to see the new Jerusalem, that is the church (Revelation 21:10). Churches like Ephesus are located “in the hill country”. Are there still such churches in professing Christianity today?

Finally, the cities are mentioned in the wilderness of Judea, east of the mountains to the Dead Sea (Joshua 15:61-62). Judea is constantly reminded of the wilderness, its aridity. The awareness of all the blessings in heaven also includes the awareness that this world has nothing to offer for faith. In the kingdom of peace, however, the wilderness will blossom profusely “like the crocus” (Isaiah 35:1). That is what faith looks forward to.

Joshua 22:18

Cities and Villages in Judah

Here the towns and villages are named according to the different territories in which they are located. In this way, the inheritance is enjoyed, in these different contexts. A village is not what we understand by it. It is more like a hamlet consisting of one family or two families of which the members live and work together. It speaks of individual believers who share blessings with each other in a smaller context, for example a family context.

A city speaks more of a local church. Every family is different, as is every local church. We notice this when we read the letters to the various churches in the New Testament. Taking possession of the land is not something of the study room, to enjoy those things only for ourselves. It is something we share with our families, fathers, mothers and children or also with the brothers and sisters with whom we form a local church.

If we don’t, we will capture the inheritance as Reuben and Gad did. Of these tribes only the men have captured the inheritance. Although, they did not do this for themselves, but for others. Their wives and children have never seen the inheritance. Not sharing with others what we have taken possession of is also visible in Ephraim and Manasseh: there are hardly any villages and towns mentioned of them. Judah really is a tribe after the thoughts of God.

Can each local church be considered a city, in the wilderness or in the mountains? We are all needed to build up each other and complement each other. This happens mainly in the local Bible reading. Can the church where we are be considered a church in the wilderness or in the mountain? Is it a city in the land, i.e. is it a church where the blessings of heaven are enjoyed, either in relation to life on earth or in relation to the position of believers in Christ?

Spiritually speaking, the border of Judah is a curious border. No tribe has a view like Judah. Those who live in the south have the view on Edom (Joshua 15:21-32). Edom is a brother nation and at the same time the most hateful enemy. Edom speaks of the flesh in the believer. This limit may not be crossed, that is to say that the flesh may not have the opportunity to enter the inheritance, because that will result in destruction of (the enjoyment of) the inheritance.

Then Joshua 15:33-47 mention the cities in the lowland. That is the low part of the land between the sea and the mountains of Judea. The low speaks of the realm of Christian life where heavenly blessings are shown, the practical life of faith of every day. In the letter to the Ephesians, those territories are seen in marriages and families and working environment. Wives and husbands (Ephesians 5:22-33), children and parents (Ephesians 6:1-4), slaves and masters are all addressed (Ephesians 6:5-9).

There are also cities in the hill country (Joshua 15:48-60). This relates to knowing the blessings in Christ in the heavenly places. Paul prays for the believers in Ephesus that they will know their blessings (Ephesians 1:17-21). John is carried away “in the spirit to a great and high mountain” to see the new Jerusalem, that is the church (Revelation 21:10). Churches like Ephesus are located “in the hill country”. Are there still such churches in professing Christianity today?

Finally, the cities are mentioned in the wilderness of Judea, east of the mountains to the Dead Sea (Joshua 15:61-62). Judea is constantly reminded of the wilderness, its aridity. The awareness of all the blessings in heaven also includes the awareness that this world has nothing to offer for faith. In the kingdom of peace, however, the wilderness will blossom profusely “like the crocus” (Isaiah 35:1). That is what faith looks forward to.

Joshua 22:19

Cities and Villages in Judah

Here the towns and villages are named according to the different territories in which they are located. In this way, the inheritance is enjoyed, in these different contexts. A village is not what we understand by it. It is more like a hamlet consisting of one family or two families of which the members live and work together. It speaks of individual believers who share blessings with each other in a smaller context, for example a family context.

A city speaks more of a local church. Every family is different, as is every local church. We notice this when we read the letters to the various churches in the New Testament. Taking possession of the land is not something of the study room, to enjoy those things only for ourselves. It is something we share with our families, fathers, mothers and children or also with the brothers and sisters with whom we form a local church.

If we don’t, we will capture the inheritance as Reuben and Gad did. Of these tribes only the men have captured the inheritance. Although, they did not do this for themselves, but for others. Their wives and children have never seen the inheritance. Not sharing with others what we have taken possession of is also visible in Ephraim and Manasseh: there are hardly any villages and towns mentioned of them. Judah really is a tribe after the thoughts of God.

Can each local church be considered a city, in the wilderness or in the mountains? We are all needed to build up each other and complement each other. This happens mainly in the local Bible reading. Can the church where we are be considered a church in the wilderness or in the mountain? Is it a city in the land, i.e. is it a church where the blessings of heaven are enjoyed, either in relation to life on earth or in relation to the position of believers in Christ?

Spiritually speaking, the border of Judah is a curious border. No tribe has a view like Judah. Those who live in the south have the view on Edom (Joshua 15:21-32). Edom is a brother nation and at the same time the most hateful enemy. Edom speaks of the flesh in the believer. This limit may not be crossed, that is to say that the flesh may not have the opportunity to enter the inheritance, because that will result in destruction of (the enjoyment of) the inheritance.

Then Joshua 15:33-47 mention the cities in the lowland. That is the low part of the land between the sea and the mountains of Judea. The low speaks of the realm of Christian life where heavenly blessings are shown, the practical life of faith of every day. In the letter to the Ephesians, those territories are seen in marriages and families and working environment. Wives and husbands (Ephesians 5:22-33), children and parents (Ephesians 6:1-4), slaves and masters are all addressed (Ephesians 6:5-9).

There are also cities in the hill country (Joshua 15:48-60). This relates to knowing the blessings in Christ in the heavenly places. Paul prays for the believers in Ephesus that they will know their blessings (Ephesians 1:17-21). John is carried away “in the spirit to a great and high mountain” to see the new Jerusalem, that is the church (Revelation 21:10). Churches like Ephesus are located “in the hill country”. Are there still such churches in professing Christianity today?

Finally, the cities are mentioned in the wilderness of Judea, east of the mountains to the Dead Sea (Joshua 15:61-62). Judea is constantly reminded of the wilderness, its aridity. The awareness of all the blessings in heaven also includes the awareness that this world has nothing to offer for faith. In the kingdom of peace, however, the wilderness will blossom profusely “like the crocus” (Isaiah 35:1). That is what faith looks forward to.

Joshua 22:20

Cities and Villages in Judah

Here the towns and villages are named according to the different territories in which they are located. In this way, the inheritance is enjoyed, in these different contexts. A village is not what we understand by it. It is more like a hamlet consisting of one family or two families of which the members live and work together. It speaks of individual believers who share blessings with each other in a smaller context, for example a family context.

A city speaks more of a local church. Every family is different, as is every local church. We notice this when we read the letters to the various churches in the New Testament. Taking possession of the land is not something of the study room, to enjoy those things only for ourselves. It is something we share with our families, fathers, mothers and children or also with the brothers and sisters with whom we form a local church.

If we don’t, we will capture the inheritance as Reuben and Gad did. Of these tribes only the men have captured the inheritance. Although, they did not do this for themselves, but for others. Their wives and children have never seen the inheritance. Not sharing with others what we have taken possession of is also visible in Ephraim and Manasseh: there are hardly any villages and towns mentioned of them. Judah really is a tribe after the thoughts of God.

Can each local church be considered a city, in the wilderness or in the mountains? We are all needed to build up each other and complement each other. This happens mainly in the local Bible reading. Can the church where we are be considered a church in the wilderness or in the mountain? Is it a city in the land, i.e. is it a church where the blessings of heaven are enjoyed, either in relation to life on earth or in relation to the position of believers in Christ?

Spiritually speaking, the border of Judah is a curious border. No tribe has a view like Judah. Those who live in the south have the view on Edom (Joshua 15:21-32). Edom is a brother nation and at the same time the most hateful enemy. Edom speaks of the flesh in the believer. This limit may not be crossed, that is to say that the flesh may not have the opportunity to enter the inheritance, because that will result in destruction of (the enjoyment of) the inheritance.

Then Joshua 15:33-47 mention the cities in the lowland. That is the low part of the land between the sea and the mountains of Judea. The low speaks of the realm of Christian life where heavenly blessings are shown, the practical life of faith of every day. In the letter to the Ephesians, those territories are seen in marriages and families and working environment. Wives and husbands (Ephesians 5:22-33), children and parents (Ephesians 6:1-4), slaves and masters are all addressed (Ephesians 6:5-9).

There are also cities in the hill country (Joshua 15:48-60). This relates to knowing the blessings in Christ in the heavenly places. Paul prays for the believers in Ephesus that they will know their blessings (Ephesians 1:17-21). John is carried away “in the spirit to a great and high mountain” to see the new Jerusalem, that is the church (Revelation 21:10). Churches like Ephesus are located “in the hill country”. Are there still such churches in professing Christianity today?

Finally, the cities are mentioned in the wilderness of Judea, east of the mountains to the Dead Sea (Joshua 15:61-62). Judea is constantly reminded of the wilderness, its aridity. The awareness of all the blessings in heaven also includes the awareness that this world has nothing to offer for faith. In the kingdom of peace, however, the wilderness will blossom profusely “like the crocus” (Isaiah 35:1). That is what faith looks forward to.

Joshua 22:21

Cities and Villages in Judah

Here the towns and villages are named according to the different territories in which they are located. In this way, the inheritance is enjoyed, in these different contexts. A village is not what we understand by it. It is more like a hamlet consisting of one family or two families of which the members live and work together. It speaks of individual believers who share blessings with each other in a smaller context, for example a family context.

A city speaks more of a local church. Every family is different, as is every local church. We notice this when we read the letters to the various churches in the New Testament. Taking possession of the land is not something of the study room, to enjoy those things only for ourselves. It is something we share with our families, fathers, mothers and children or also with the brothers and sisters with whom we form a local church.

If we don’t, we will capture the inheritance as Reuben and Gad did. Of these tribes only the men have captured the inheritance. Although, they did not do this for themselves, but for others. Their wives and children have never seen the inheritance. Not sharing with others what we have taken possession of is also visible in Ephraim and Manasseh: there are hardly any villages and towns mentioned of them. Judah really is a tribe after the thoughts of God.

Can each local church be considered a city, in the wilderness or in the mountains? We are all needed to build up each other and complement each other. This happens mainly in the local Bible reading. Can the church where we are be considered a church in the wilderness or in the mountain? Is it a city in the land, i.e. is it a church where the blessings of heaven are enjoyed, either in relation to life on earth or in relation to the position of believers in Christ?

Spiritually speaking, the border of Judah is a curious border. No tribe has a view like Judah. Those who live in the south have the view on Edom (Joshua 15:21-32). Edom is a brother nation and at the same time the most hateful enemy. Edom speaks of the flesh in the believer. This limit may not be crossed, that is to say that the flesh may not have the opportunity to enter the inheritance, because that will result in destruction of (the enjoyment of) the inheritance.

Then Joshua 15:33-47 mention the cities in the lowland. That is the low part of the land between the sea and the mountains of Judea. The low speaks of the realm of Christian life where heavenly blessings are shown, the practical life of faith of every day. In the letter to the Ephesians, those territories are seen in marriages and families and working environment. Wives and husbands (Ephesians 5:22-33), children and parents (Ephesians 6:1-4), slaves and masters are all addressed (Ephesians 6:5-9).

There are also cities in the hill country (Joshua 15:48-60). This relates to knowing the blessings in Christ in the heavenly places. Paul prays for the believers in Ephesus that they will know their blessings (Ephesians 1:17-21). John is carried away “in the spirit to a great and high mountain” to see the new Jerusalem, that is the church (Revelation 21:10). Churches like Ephesus are located “in the hill country”. Are there still such churches in professing Christianity today?

Finally, the cities are mentioned in the wilderness of Judea, east of the mountains to the Dead Sea (Joshua 15:61-62). Judea is constantly reminded of the wilderness, its aridity. The awareness of all the blessings in heaven also includes the awareness that this world has nothing to offer for faith. In the kingdom of peace, however, the wilderness will blossom profusely “like the crocus” (Isaiah 35:1). That is what faith looks forward to.

Joshua 22:22

Cities and Villages in Judah

Here the towns and villages are named according to the different territories in which they are located. In this way, the inheritance is enjoyed, in these different contexts. A village is not what we understand by it. It is more like a hamlet consisting of one family or two families of which the members live and work together. It speaks of individual believers who share blessings with each other in a smaller context, for example a family context.

A city speaks more of a local church. Every family is different, as is every local church. We notice this when we read the letters to the various churches in the New Testament. Taking possession of the land is not something of the study room, to enjoy those things only for ourselves. It is something we share with our families, fathers, mothers and children or also with the brothers and sisters with whom we form a local church.

If we don’t, we will capture the inheritance as Reuben and Gad did. Of these tribes only the men have captured the inheritance. Although, they did not do this for themselves, but for others. Their wives and children have never seen the inheritance. Not sharing with others what we have taken possession of is also visible in Ephraim and Manasseh: there are hardly any villages and towns mentioned of them. Judah really is a tribe after the thoughts of God.

Can each local church be considered a city, in the wilderness or in the mountains? We are all needed to build up each other and complement each other. This happens mainly in the local Bible reading. Can the church where we are be considered a church in the wilderness or in the mountain? Is it a city in the land, i.e. is it a church where the blessings of heaven are enjoyed, either in relation to life on earth or in relation to the position of believers in Christ?

Spiritually speaking, the border of Judah is a curious border. No tribe has a view like Judah. Those who live in the south have the view on Edom (Joshua 15:21-32). Edom is a brother nation and at the same time the most hateful enemy. Edom speaks of the flesh in the believer. This limit may not be crossed, that is to say that the flesh may not have the opportunity to enter the inheritance, because that will result in destruction of (the enjoyment of) the inheritance.

Then Joshua 15:33-47 mention the cities in the lowland. That is the low part of the land between the sea and the mountains of Judea. The low speaks of the realm of Christian life where heavenly blessings are shown, the practical life of faith of every day. In the letter to the Ephesians, those territories are seen in marriages and families and working environment. Wives and husbands (Ephesians 5:22-33), children and parents (Ephesians 6:1-4), slaves and masters are all addressed (Ephesians 6:5-9).

There are also cities in the hill country (Joshua 15:48-60). This relates to knowing the blessings in Christ in the heavenly places. Paul prays for the believers in Ephesus that they will know their blessings (Ephesians 1:17-21). John is carried away “in the spirit to a great and high mountain” to see the new Jerusalem, that is the church (Revelation 21:10). Churches like Ephesus are located “in the hill country”. Are there still such churches in professing Christianity today?

Finally, the cities are mentioned in the wilderness of Judea, east of the mountains to the Dead Sea (Joshua 15:61-62). Judea is constantly reminded of the wilderness, its aridity. The awareness of all the blessings in heaven also includes the awareness that this world has nothing to offer for faith. In the kingdom of peace, however, the wilderness will blossom profusely “like the crocus” (Isaiah 35:1). That is what faith looks forward to.

Joshua 22:23

Cities and Villages in Judah

Here the towns and villages are named according to the different territories in which they are located. In this way, the inheritance is enjoyed, in these different contexts. A village is not what we understand by it. It is more like a hamlet consisting of one family or two families of which the members live and work together. It speaks of individual believers who share blessings with each other in a smaller context, for example a family context.

A city speaks more of a local church. Every family is different, as is every local church. We notice this when we read the letters to the various churches in the New Testament. Taking possession of the land is not something of the study room, to enjoy those things only for ourselves. It is something we share with our families, fathers, mothers and children or also with the brothers and sisters with whom we form a local church.

If we don’t, we will capture the inheritance as Reuben and Gad did. Of these tribes only the men have captured the inheritance. Although, they did not do this for themselves, but for others. Their wives and children have never seen the inheritance. Not sharing with others what we have taken possession of is also visible in Ephraim and Manasseh: there are hardly any villages and towns mentioned of them. Judah really is a tribe after the thoughts of God.

Can each local church be considered a city, in the wilderness or in the mountains? We are all needed to build up each other and complement each other. This happens mainly in the local Bible reading. Can the church where we are be considered a church in the wilderness or in the mountain? Is it a city in the land, i.e. is it a church where the blessings of heaven are enjoyed, either in relation to life on earth or in relation to the position of believers in Christ?

Spiritually speaking, the border of Judah is a curious border. No tribe has a view like Judah. Those who live in the south have the view on Edom (Joshua 15:21-32). Edom is a brother nation and at the same time the most hateful enemy. Edom speaks of the flesh in the believer. This limit may not be crossed, that is to say that the flesh may not have the opportunity to enter the inheritance, because that will result in destruction of (the enjoyment of) the inheritance.

Then Joshua 15:33-47 mention the cities in the lowland. That is the low part of the land between the sea and the mountains of Judea. The low speaks of the realm of Christian life where heavenly blessings are shown, the practical life of faith of every day. In the letter to the Ephesians, those territories are seen in marriages and families and working environment. Wives and husbands (Ephesians 5:22-33), children and parents (Ephesians 6:1-4), slaves and masters are all addressed (Ephesians 6:5-9).

There are also cities in the hill country (Joshua 15:48-60). This relates to knowing the blessings in Christ in the heavenly places. Paul prays for the believers in Ephesus that they will know their blessings (Ephesians 1:17-21). John is carried away “in the spirit to a great and high mountain” to see the new Jerusalem, that is the church (Revelation 21:10). Churches like Ephesus are located “in the hill country”. Are there still such churches in professing Christianity today?

Finally, the cities are mentioned in the wilderness of Judea, east of the mountains to the Dead Sea (Joshua 15:61-62). Judea is constantly reminded of the wilderness, its aridity. The awareness of all the blessings in heaven also includes the awareness that this world has nothing to offer for faith. In the kingdom of peace, however, the wilderness will blossom profusely “like the crocus” (Isaiah 35:1). That is what faith looks forward to.

Joshua 22:24

Cities and Villages in Judah

Here the towns and villages are named according to the different territories in which they are located. In this way, the inheritance is enjoyed, in these different contexts. A village is not what we understand by it. It is more like a hamlet consisting of one family or two families of which the members live and work together. It speaks of individual believers who share blessings with each other in a smaller context, for example a family context.

A city speaks more of a local church. Every family is different, as is every local church. We notice this when we read the letters to the various churches in the New Testament. Taking possession of the land is not something of the study room, to enjoy those things only for ourselves. It is something we share with our families, fathers, mothers and children or also with the brothers and sisters with whom we form a local church.

If we don’t, we will capture the inheritance as Reuben and Gad did. Of these tribes only the men have captured the inheritance. Although, they did not do this for themselves, but for others. Their wives and children have never seen the inheritance. Not sharing with others what we have taken possession of is also visible in Ephraim and Manasseh: there are hardly any villages and towns mentioned of them. Judah really is a tribe after the thoughts of God.

Can each local church be considered a city, in the wilderness or in the mountains? We are all needed to build up each other and complement each other. This happens mainly in the local Bible reading. Can the church where we are be considered a church in the wilderness or in the mountain? Is it a city in the land, i.e. is it a church where the blessings of heaven are enjoyed, either in relation to life on earth or in relation to the position of believers in Christ?

Spiritually speaking, the border of Judah is a curious border. No tribe has a view like Judah. Those who live in the south have the view on Edom (Joshua 15:21-32). Edom is a brother nation and at the same time the most hateful enemy. Edom speaks of the flesh in the believer. This limit may not be crossed, that is to say that the flesh may not have the opportunity to enter the inheritance, because that will result in destruction of (the enjoyment of) the inheritance.

Then Joshua 15:33-47 mention the cities in the lowland. That is the low part of the land between the sea and the mountains of Judea. The low speaks of the realm of Christian life where heavenly blessings are shown, the practical life of faith of every day. In the letter to the Ephesians, those territories are seen in marriages and families and working environment. Wives and husbands (Ephesians 5:22-33), children and parents (Ephesians 6:1-4), slaves and masters are all addressed (Ephesians 6:5-9).

There are also cities in the hill country (Joshua 15:48-60). This relates to knowing the blessings in Christ in the heavenly places. Paul prays for the believers in Ephesus that they will know their blessings (Ephesians 1:17-21). John is carried away “in the spirit to a great and high mountain” to see the new Jerusalem, that is the church (Revelation 21:10). Churches like Ephesus are located “in the hill country”. Are there still such churches in professing Christianity today?

Finally, the cities are mentioned in the wilderness of Judea, east of the mountains to the Dead Sea (Joshua 15:61-62). Judea is constantly reminded of the wilderness, its aridity. The awareness of all the blessings in heaven also includes the awareness that this world has nothing to offer for faith. In the kingdom of peace, however, the wilderness will blossom profusely “like the crocus” (Isaiah 35:1). That is what faith looks forward to.

Joshua 22:25

Cities and Villages in Judah

Here the towns and villages are named according to the different territories in which they are located. In this way, the inheritance is enjoyed, in these different contexts. A village is not what we understand by it. It is more like a hamlet consisting of one family or two families of which the members live and work together. It speaks of individual believers who share blessings with each other in a smaller context, for example a family context.

A city speaks more of a local church. Every family is different, as is every local church. We notice this when we read the letters to the various churches in the New Testament. Taking possession of the land is not something of the study room, to enjoy those things only for ourselves. It is something we share with our families, fathers, mothers and children or also with the brothers and sisters with whom we form a local church.

If we don’t, we will capture the inheritance as Reuben and Gad did. Of these tribes only the men have captured the inheritance. Although, they did not do this for themselves, but for others. Their wives and children have never seen the inheritance. Not sharing with others what we have taken possession of is also visible in Ephraim and Manasseh: there are hardly any villages and towns mentioned of them. Judah really is a tribe after the thoughts of God.

Can each local church be considered a city, in the wilderness or in the mountains? We are all needed to build up each other and complement each other. This happens mainly in the local Bible reading. Can the church where we are be considered a church in the wilderness or in the mountain? Is it a city in the land, i.e. is it a church where the blessings of heaven are enjoyed, either in relation to life on earth or in relation to the position of believers in Christ?

Spiritually speaking, the border of Judah is a curious border. No tribe has a view like Judah. Those who live in the south have the view on Edom (Joshua 15:21-32). Edom is a brother nation and at the same time the most hateful enemy. Edom speaks of the flesh in the believer. This limit may not be crossed, that is to say that the flesh may not have the opportunity to enter the inheritance, because that will result in destruction of (the enjoyment of) the inheritance.

Then Joshua 15:33-47 mention the cities in the lowland. That is the low part of the land between the sea and the mountains of Judea. The low speaks of the realm of Christian life where heavenly blessings are shown, the practical life of faith of every day. In the letter to the Ephesians, those territories are seen in marriages and families and working environment. Wives and husbands (Ephesians 5:22-33), children and parents (Ephesians 6:1-4), slaves and masters are all addressed (Ephesians 6:5-9).

There are also cities in the hill country (Joshua 15:48-60). This relates to knowing the blessings in Christ in the heavenly places. Paul prays for the believers in Ephesus that they will know their blessings (Ephesians 1:17-21). John is carried away “in the spirit to a great and high mountain” to see the new Jerusalem, that is the church (Revelation 21:10). Churches like Ephesus are located “in the hill country”. Are there still such churches in professing Christianity today?

Finally, the cities are mentioned in the wilderness of Judea, east of the mountains to the Dead Sea (Joshua 15:61-62). Judea is constantly reminded of the wilderness, its aridity. The awareness of all the blessings in heaven also includes the awareness that this world has nothing to offer for faith. In the kingdom of peace, however, the wilderness will blossom profusely “like the crocus” (Isaiah 35:1). That is what faith looks forward to.

Joshua 22:26

Cities and Villages in Judah

Here the towns and villages are named according to the different territories in which they are located. In this way, the inheritance is enjoyed, in these different contexts. A village is not what we understand by it. It is more like a hamlet consisting of one family or two families of which the members live and work together. It speaks of individual believers who share blessings with each other in a smaller context, for example a family context.

A city speaks more of a local church. Every family is different, as is every local church. We notice this when we read the letters to the various churches in the New Testament. Taking possession of the land is not something of the study room, to enjoy those things only for ourselves. It is something we share with our families, fathers, mothers and children or also with the brothers and sisters with whom we form a local church.

If we don’t, we will capture the inheritance as Reuben and Gad did. Of these tribes only the men have captured the inheritance. Although, they did not do this for themselves, but for others. Their wives and children have never seen the inheritance. Not sharing with others what we have taken possession of is also visible in Ephraim and Manasseh: there are hardly any villages and towns mentioned of them. Judah really is a tribe after the thoughts of God.

Can each local church be considered a city, in the wilderness or in the mountains? We are all needed to build up each other and complement each other. This happens mainly in the local Bible reading. Can the church where we are be considered a church in the wilderness or in the mountain? Is it a city in the land, i.e. is it a church where the blessings of heaven are enjoyed, either in relation to life on earth or in relation to the position of believers in Christ?

Spiritually speaking, the border of Judah is a curious border. No tribe has a view like Judah. Those who live in the south have the view on Edom (Joshua 15:21-32). Edom is a brother nation and at the same time the most hateful enemy. Edom speaks of the flesh in the believer. This limit may not be crossed, that is to say that the flesh may not have the opportunity to enter the inheritance, because that will result in destruction of (the enjoyment of) the inheritance.

Then Joshua 15:33-47 mention the cities in the lowland. That is the low part of the land between the sea and the mountains of Judea. The low speaks of the realm of Christian life where heavenly blessings are shown, the practical life of faith of every day. In the letter to the Ephesians, those territories are seen in marriages and families and working environment. Wives and husbands (Ephesians 5:22-33), children and parents (Ephesians 6:1-4), slaves and masters are all addressed (Ephesians 6:5-9).

There are also cities in the hill country (Joshua 15:48-60). This relates to knowing the blessings in Christ in the heavenly places. Paul prays for the believers in Ephesus that they will know their blessings (Ephesians 1:17-21). John is carried away “in the spirit to a great and high mountain” to see the new Jerusalem, that is the church (Revelation 21:10). Churches like Ephesus are located “in the hill country”. Are there still such churches in professing Christianity today?

Finally, the cities are mentioned in the wilderness of Judea, east of the mountains to the Dead Sea (Joshua 15:61-62). Judea is constantly reminded of the wilderness, its aridity. The awareness of all the blessings in heaven also includes the awareness that this world has nothing to offer for faith. In the kingdom of peace, however, the wilderness will blossom profusely “like the crocus” (Isaiah 35:1). That is what faith looks forward to.

Joshua 22:27

Cities and Villages in Judah

Here the towns and villages are named according to the different territories in which they are located. In this way, the inheritance is enjoyed, in these different contexts. A village is not what we understand by it. It is more like a hamlet consisting of one family or two families of which the members live and work together. It speaks of individual believers who share blessings with each other in a smaller context, for example a family context.

A city speaks more of a local church. Every family is different, as is every local church. We notice this when we read the letters to the various churches in the New Testament. Taking possession of the land is not something of the study room, to enjoy those things only for ourselves. It is something we share with our families, fathers, mothers and children or also with the brothers and sisters with whom we form a local church.

If we don’t, we will capture the inheritance as Reuben and Gad did. Of these tribes only the men have captured the inheritance. Although, they did not do this for themselves, but for others. Their wives and children have never seen the inheritance. Not sharing with others what we have taken possession of is also visible in Ephraim and Manasseh: there are hardly any villages and towns mentioned of them. Judah really is a tribe after the thoughts of God.

Can each local church be considered a city, in the wilderness or in the mountains? We are all needed to build up each other and complement each other. This happens mainly in the local Bible reading. Can the church where we are be considered a church in the wilderness or in the mountain? Is it a city in the land, i.e. is it a church where the blessings of heaven are enjoyed, either in relation to life on earth or in relation to the position of believers in Christ?

Spiritually speaking, the border of Judah is a curious border. No tribe has a view like Judah. Those who live in the south have the view on Edom (Joshua 15:21-32). Edom is a brother nation and at the same time the most hateful enemy. Edom speaks of the flesh in the believer. This limit may not be crossed, that is to say that the flesh may not have the opportunity to enter the inheritance, because that will result in destruction of (the enjoyment of) the inheritance.

Then Joshua 15:33-47 mention the cities in the lowland. That is the low part of the land between the sea and the mountains of Judea. The low speaks of the realm of Christian life where heavenly blessings are shown, the practical life of faith of every day. In the letter to the Ephesians, those territories are seen in marriages and families and working environment. Wives and husbands (Ephesians 5:22-33), children and parents (Ephesians 6:1-4), slaves and masters are all addressed (Ephesians 6:5-9).

There are also cities in the hill country (Joshua 15:48-60). This relates to knowing the blessings in Christ in the heavenly places. Paul prays for the believers in Ephesus that they will know their blessings (Ephesians 1:17-21). John is carried away “in the spirit to a great and high mountain” to see the new Jerusalem, that is the church (Revelation 21:10). Churches like Ephesus are located “in the hill country”. Are there still such churches in professing Christianity today?

Finally, the cities are mentioned in the wilderness of Judea, east of the mountains to the Dead Sea (Joshua 15:61-62). Judea is constantly reminded of the wilderness, its aridity. The awareness of all the blessings in heaven also includes the awareness that this world has nothing to offer for faith. In the kingdom of peace, however, the wilderness will blossom profusely “like the crocus” (Isaiah 35:1). That is what faith looks forward to.

Joshua 22:28

Cities and Villages in Judah

Here the towns and villages are named according to the different territories in which they are located. In this way, the inheritance is enjoyed, in these different contexts. A village is not what we understand by it. It is more like a hamlet consisting of one family or two families of which the members live and work together. It speaks of individual believers who share blessings with each other in a smaller context, for example a family context.

A city speaks more of a local church. Every family is different, as is every local church. We notice this when we read the letters to the various churches in the New Testament. Taking possession of the land is not something of the study room, to enjoy those things only for ourselves. It is something we share with our families, fathers, mothers and children or also with the brothers and sisters with whom we form a local church.

If we don’t, we will capture the inheritance as Reuben and Gad did. Of these tribes only the men have captured the inheritance. Although, they did not do this for themselves, but for others. Their wives and children have never seen the inheritance. Not sharing with others what we have taken possession of is also visible in Ephraim and Manasseh: there are hardly any villages and towns mentioned of them. Judah really is a tribe after the thoughts of God.

Can each local church be considered a city, in the wilderness or in the mountains? We are all needed to build up each other and complement each other. This happens mainly in the local Bible reading. Can the church where we are be considered a church in the wilderness or in the mountain? Is it a city in the land, i.e. is it a church where the blessings of heaven are enjoyed, either in relation to life on earth or in relation to the position of believers in Christ?

Spiritually speaking, the border of Judah is a curious border. No tribe has a view like Judah. Those who live in the south have the view on Edom (Joshua 15:21-32). Edom is a brother nation and at the same time the most hateful enemy. Edom speaks of the flesh in the believer. This limit may not be crossed, that is to say that the flesh may not have the opportunity to enter the inheritance, because that will result in destruction of (the enjoyment of) the inheritance.

Then Joshua 15:33-47 mention the cities in the lowland. That is the low part of the land between the sea and the mountains of Judea. The low speaks of the realm of Christian life where heavenly blessings are shown, the practical life of faith of every day. In the letter to the Ephesians, those territories are seen in marriages and families and working environment. Wives and husbands (Ephesians 5:22-33), children and parents (Ephesians 6:1-4), slaves and masters are all addressed (Ephesians 6:5-9).

There are also cities in the hill country (Joshua 15:48-60). This relates to knowing the blessings in Christ in the heavenly places. Paul prays for the believers in Ephesus that they will know their blessings (Ephesians 1:17-21). John is carried away “in the spirit to a great and high mountain” to see the new Jerusalem, that is the church (Revelation 21:10). Churches like Ephesus are located “in the hill country”. Are there still such churches in professing Christianity today?

Finally, the cities are mentioned in the wilderness of Judea, east of the mountains to the Dead Sea (Joshua 15:61-62). Judea is constantly reminded of the wilderness, its aridity. The awareness of all the blessings in heaven also includes the awareness that this world has nothing to offer for faith. In the kingdom of peace, however, the wilderness will blossom profusely “like the crocus” (Isaiah 35:1). That is what faith looks forward to.

Joshua 22:29

Cities and Villages in Judah

Here the towns and villages are named according to the different territories in which they are located. In this way, the inheritance is enjoyed, in these different contexts. A village is not what we understand by it. It is more like a hamlet consisting of one family or two families of which the members live and work together. It speaks of individual believers who share blessings with each other in a smaller context, for example a family context.

A city speaks more of a local church. Every family is different, as is every local church. We notice this when we read the letters to the various churches in the New Testament. Taking possession of the land is not something of the study room, to enjoy those things only for ourselves. It is something we share with our families, fathers, mothers and children or also with the brothers and sisters with whom we form a local church.

If we don’t, we will capture the inheritance as Reuben and Gad did. Of these tribes only the men have captured the inheritance. Although, they did not do this for themselves, but for others. Their wives and children have never seen the inheritance. Not sharing with others what we have taken possession of is also visible in Ephraim and Manasseh: there are hardly any villages and towns mentioned of them. Judah really is a tribe after the thoughts of God.

Can each local church be considered a city, in the wilderness or in the mountains? We are all needed to build up each other and complement each other. This happens mainly in the local Bible reading. Can the church where we are be considered a church in the wilderness or in the mountain? Is it a city in the land, i.e. is it a church where the blessings of heaven are enjoyed, either in relation to life on earth or in relation to the position of believers in Christ?

Spiritually speaking, the border of Judah is a curious border. No tribe has a view like Judah. Those who live in the south have the view on Edom (Joshua 15:21-32). Edom is a brother nation and at the same time the most hateful enemy. Edom speaks of the flesh in the believer. This limit may not be crossed, that is to say that the flesh may not have the opportunity to enter the inheritance, because that will result in destruction of (the enjoyment of) the inheritance.

Then Joshua 15:33-47 mention the cities in the lowland. That is the low part of the land between the sea and the mountains of Judea. The low speaks of the realm of Christian life where heavenly blessings are shown, the practical life of faith of every day. In the letter to the Ephesians, those territories are seen in marriages and families and working environment. Wives and husbands (Ephesians 5:22-33), children and parents (Ephesians 6:1-4), slaves and masters are all addressed (Ephesians 6:5-9).

There are also cities in the hill country (Joshua 15:48-60). This relates to knowing the blessings in Christ in the heavenly places. Paul prays for the believers in Ephesus that they will know their blessings (Ephesians 1:17-21). John is carried away “in the spirit to a great and high mountain” to see the new Jerusalem, that is the church (Revelation 21:10). Churches like Ephesus are located “in the hill country”. Are there still such churches in professing Christianity today?

Finally, the cities are mentioned in the wilderness of Judea, east of the mountains to the Dead Sea (Joshua 15:61-62). Judea is constantly reminded of the wilderness, its aridity. The awareness of all the blessings in heaven also includes the awareness that this world has nothing to offer for faith. In the kingdom of peace, however, the wilderness will blossom profusely “like the crocus” (Isaiah 35:1). That is what faith looks forward to.

Joshua 22:30

Cities and Villages in Judah

Here the towns and villages are named according to the different territories in which they are located. In this way, the inheritance is enjoyed, in these different contexts. A village is not what we understand by it. It is more like a hamlet consisting of one family or two families of which the members live and work together. It speaks of individual believers who share blessings with each other in a smaller context, for example a family context.

A city speaks more of a local church. Every family is different, as is every local church. We notice this when we read the letters to the various churches in the New Testament. Taking possession of the land is not something of the study room, to enjoy those things only for ourselves. It is something we share with our families, fathers, mothers and children or also with the brothers and sisters with whom we form a local church.

If we don’t, we will capture the inheritance as Reuben and Gad did. Of these tribes only the men have captured the inheritance. Although, they did not do this for themselves, but for others. Their wives and children have never seen the inheritance. Not sharing with others what we have taken possession of is also visible in Ephraim and Manasseh: there are hardly any villages and towns mentioned of them. Judah really is a tribe after the thoughts of God.

Can each local church be considered a city, in the wilderness or in the mountains? We are all needed to build up each other and complement each other. This happens mainly in the local Bible reading. Can the church where we are be considered a church in the wilderness or in the mountain? Is it a city in the land, i.e. is it a church where the blessings of heaven are enjoyed, either in relation to life on earth or in relation to the position of believers in Christ?

Spiritually speaking, the border of Judah is a curious border. No tribe has a view like Judah. Those who live in the south have the view on Edom (Joshua 15:21-32). Edom is a brother nation and at the same time the most hateful enemy. Edom speaks of the flesh in the believer. This limit may not be crossed, that is to say that the flesh may not have the opportunity to enter the inheritance, because that will result in destruction of (the enjoyment of) the inheritance.

Then Joshua 15:33-47 mention the cities in the lowland. That is the low part of the land between the sea and the mountains of Judea. The low speaks of the realm of Christian life where heavenly blessings are shown, the practical life of faith of every day. In the letter to the Ephesians, those territories are seen in marriages and families and working environment. Wives and husbands (Ephesians 5:22-33), children and parents (Ephesians 6:1-4), slaves and masters are all addressed (Ephesians 6:5-9).

There are also cities in the hill country (Joshua 15:48-60). This relates to knowing the blessings in Christ in the heavenly places. Paul prays for the believers in Ephesus that they will know their blessings (Ephesians 1:17-21). John is carried away “in the spirit to a great and high mountain” to see the new Jerusalem, that is the church (Revelation 21:10). Churches like Ephesus are located “in the hill country”. Are there still such churches in professing Christianity today?

Finally, the cities are mentioned in the wilderness of Judea, east of the mountains to the Dead Sea (Joshua 15:61-62). Judea is constantly reminded of the wilderness, its aridity. The awareness of all the blessings in heaven also includes the awareness that this world has nothing to offer for faith. In the kingdom of peace, however, the wilderness will blossom profusely “like the crocus” (Isaiah 35:1). That is what faith looks forward to.

Joshua 22:31

Cities and Villages in Judah

Here the towns and villages are named according to the different territories in which they are located. In this way, the inheritance is enjoyed, in these different contexts. A village is not what we understand by it. It is more like a hamlet consisting of one family or two families of which the members live and work together. It speaks of individual believers who share blessings with each other in a smaller context, for example a family context.

A city speaks more of a local church. Every family is different, as is every local church. We notice this when we read the letters to the various churches in the New Testament. Taking possession of the land is not something of the study room, to enjoy those things only for ourselves. It is something we share with our families, fathers, mothers and children or also with the brothers and sisters with whom we form a local church.

If we don’t, we will capture the inheritance as Reuben and Gad did. Of these tribes only the men have captured the inheritance. Although, they did not do this for themselves, but for others. Their wives and children have never seen the inheritance. Not sharing with others what we have taken possession of is also visible in Ephraim and Manasseh: there are hardly any villages and towns mentioned of them. Judah really is a tribe after the thoughts of God.

Can each local church be considered a city, in the wilderness or in the mountains? We are all needed to build up each other and complement each other. This happens mainly in the local Bible reading. Can the church where we are be considered a church in the wilderness or in the mountain? Is it a city in the land, i.e. is it a church where the blessings of heaven are enjoyed, either in relation to life on earth or in relation to the position of believers in Christ?

Spiritually speaking, the border of Judah is a curious border. No tribe has a view like Judah. Those who live in the south have the view on Edom (Joshua 15:21-32). Edom is a brother nation and at the same time the most hateful enemy. Edom speaks of the flesh in the believer. This limit may not be crossed, that is to say that the flesh may not have the opportunity to enter the inheritance, because that will result in destruction of (the enjoyment of) the inheritance.

Then Joshua 15:33-47 mention the cities in the lowland. That is the low part of the land between the sea and the mountains of Judea. The low speaks of the realm of Christian life where heavenly blessings are shown, the practical life of faith of every day. In the letter to the Ephesians, those territories are seen in marriages and families and working environment. Wives and husbands (Ephesians 5:22-33), children and parents (Ephesians 6:1-4), slaves and masters are all addressed (Ephesians 6:5-9).

There are also cities in the hill country (Joshua 15:48-60). This relates to knowing the blessings in Christ in the heavenly places. Paul prays for the believers in Ephesus that they will know their blessings (Ephesians 1:17-21). John is carried away “in the spirit to a great and high mountain” to see the new Jerusalem, that is the church (Revelation 21:10). Churches like Ephesus are located “in the hill country”. Are there still such churches in professing Christianity today?

Finally, the cities are mentioned in the wilderness of Judea, east of the mountains to the Dead Sea (Joshua 15:61-62). Judea is constantly reminded of the wilderness, its aridity. The awareness of all the blessings in heaven also includes the awareness that this world has nothing to offer for faith. In the kingdom of peace, however, the wilderness will blossom profusely “like the crocus” (Isaiah 35:1). That is what faith looks forward to.

Joshua 22:32

Cities and Villages in Judah

Here the towns and villages are named according to the different territories in which they are located. In this way, the inheritance is enjoyed, in these different contexts. A village is not what we understand by it. It is more like a hamlet consisting of one family or two families of which the members live and work together. It speaks of individual believers who share blessings with each other in a smaller context, for example a family context.

A city speaks more of a local church. Every family is different, as is every local church. We notice this when we read the letters to the various churches in the New Testament. Taking possession of the land is not something of the study room, to enjoy those things only for ourselves. It is something we share with our families, fathers, mothers and children or also with the brothers and sisters with whom we form a local church.

If we don’t, we will capture the inheritance as Reuben and Gad did. Of these tribes only the men have captured the inheritance. Although, they did not do this for themselves, but for others. Their wives and children have never seen the inheritance. Not sharing with others what we have taken possession of is also visible in Ephraim and Manasseh: there are hardly any villages and towns mentioned of them. Judah really is a tribe after the thoughts of God.

Can each local church be considered a city, in the wilderness or in the mountains? We are all needed to build up each other and complement each other. This happens mainly in the local Bible reading. Can the church where we are be considered a church in the wilderness or in the mountain? Is it a city in the land, i.e. is it a church where the blessings of heaven are enjoyed, either in relation to life on earth or in relation to the position of believers in Christ?

Spiritually speaking, the border of Judah is a curious border. No tribe has a view like Judah. Those who live in the south have the view on Edom (Joshua 15:21-32). Edom is a brother nation and at the same time the most hateful enemy. Edom speaks of the flesh in the believer. This limit may not be crossed, that is to say that the flesh may not have the opportunity to enter the inheritance, because that will result in destruction of (the enjoyment of) the inheritance.

Then Joshua 15:33-47 mention the cities in the lowland. That is the low part of the land between the sea and the mountains of Judea. The low speaks of the realm of Christian life where heavenly blessings are shown, the practical life of faith of every day. In the letter to the Ephesians, those territories are seen in marriages and families and working environment. Wives and husbands (Ephesians 5:22-33), children and parents (Ephesians 6:1-4), slaves and masters are all addressed (Ephesians 6:5-9).

There are also cities in the hill country (Joshua 15:48-60). This relates to knowing the blessings in Christ in the heavenly places. Paul prays for the believers in Ephesus that they will know their blessings (Ephesians 1:17-21). John is carried away “in the spirit to a great and high mountain” to see the new Jerusalem, that is the church (Revelation 21:10). Churches like Ephesus are located “in the hill country”. Are there still such churches in professing Christianity today?

Finally, the cities are mentioned in the wilderness of Judea, east of the mountains to the Dead Sea (Joshua 15:61-62). Judea is constantly reminded of the wilderness, its aridity. The awareness of all the blessings in heaven also includes the awareness that this world has nothing to offer for faith. In the kingdom of peace, however, the wilderness will blossom profusely “like the crocus” (Isaiah 35:1). That is what faith looks forward to.

Joshua 22:33

Cities and Villages in Judah

Here the towns and villages are named according to the different territories in which they are located. In this way, the inheritance is enjoyed, in these different contexts. A village is not what we understand by it. It is more like a hamlet consisting of one family or two families of which the members live and work together. It speaks of individual believers who share blessings with each other in a smaller context, for example a family context.

A city speaks more of a local church. Every family is different, as is every local church. We notice this when we read the letters to the various churches in the New Testament. Taking possession of the land is not something of the study room, to enjoy those things only for ourselves. It is something we share with our families, fathers, mothers and children or also with the brothers and sisters with whom we form a local church.

If we don’t, we will capture the inheritance as Reuben and Gad did. Of these tribes only the men have captured the inheritance. Although, they did not do this for themselves, but for others. Their wives and children have never seen the inheritance. Not sharing with others what we have taken possession of is also visible in Ephraim and Manasseh: there are hardly any villages and towns mentioned of them. Judah really is a tribe after the thoughts of God.

Can each local church be considered a city, in the wilderness or in the mountains? We are all needed to build up each other and complement each other. This happens mainly in the local Bible reading. Can the church where we are be considered a church in the wilderness or in the mountain? Is it a city in the land, i.e. is it a church where the blessings of heaven are enjoyed, either in relation to life on earth or in relation to the position of believers in Christ?

Spiritually speaking, the border of Judah is a curious border. No tribe has a view like Judah. Those who live in the south have the view on Edom (Joshua 15:21-32). Edom is a brother nation and at the same time the most hateful enemy. Edom speaks of the flesh in the believer. This limit may not be crossed, that is to say that the flesh may not have the opportunity to enter the inheritance, because that will result in destruction of (the enjoyment of) the inheritance.

Then Joshua 15:33-47 mention the cities in the lowland. That is the low part of the land between the sea and the mountains of Judea. The low speaks of the realm of Christian life where heavenly blessings are shown, the practical life of faith of every day. In the letter to the Ephesians, those territories are seen in marriages and families and working environment. Wives and husbands (Ephesians 5:22-33), children and parents (Ephesians 6:1-4), slaves and masters are all addressed (Ephesians 6:5-9).

There are also cities in the hill country (Joshua 15:48-60). This relates to knowing the blessings in Christ in the heavenly places. Paul prays for the believers in Ephesus that they will know their blessings (Ephesians 1:17-21). John is carried away “in the spirit to a great and high mountain” to see the new Jerusalem, that is the church (Revelation 21:10). Churches like Ephesus are located “in the hill country”. Are there still such churches in professing Christianity today?

Finally, the cities are mentioned in the wilderness of Judea, east of the mountains to the Dead Sea (Joshua 15:61-62). Judea is constantly reminded of the wilderness, its aridity. The awareness of all the blessings in heaven also includes the awareness that this world has nothing to offer for faith. In the kingdom of peace, however, the wilderness will blossom profusely “like the crocus” (Isaiah 35:1). That is what faith looks forward to.

Joshua 22:34

Cities and Villages in Judah

Here the towns and villages are named according to the different territories in which they are located. In this way, the inheritance is enjoyed, in these different contexts. A village is not what we understand by it. It is more like a hamlet consisting of one family or two families of which the members live and work together. It speaks of individual believers who share blessings with each other in a smaller context, for example a family context.

A city speaks more of a local church. Every family is different, as is every local church. We notice this when we read the letters to the various churches in the New Testament. Taking possession of the land is not something of the study room, to enjoy those things only for ourselves. It is something we share with our families, fathers, mothers and children or also with the brothers and sisters with whom we form a local church.

If we don’t, we will capture the inheritance as Reuben and Gad did. Of these tribes only the men have captured the inheritance. Although, they did not do this for themselves, but for others. Their wives and children have never seen the inheritance. Not sharing with others what we have taken possession of is also visible in Ephraim and Manasseh: there are hardly any villages and towns mentioned of them. Judah really is a tribe after the thoughts of God.

Can each local church be considered a city, in the wilderness or in the mountains? We are all needed to build up each other and complement each other. This happens mainly in the local Bible reading. Can the church where we are be considered a church in the wilderness or in the mountain? Is it a city in the land, i.e. is it a church where the blessings of heaven are enjoyed, either in relation to life on earth or in relation to the position of believers in Christ?

Spiritually speaking, the border of Judah is a curious border. No tribe has a view like Judah. Those who live in the south have the view on Edom (Joshua 15:21-32). Edom is a brother nation and at the same time the most hateful enemy. Edom speaks of the flesh in the believer. This limit may not be crossed, that is to say that the flesh may not have the opportunity to enter the inheritance, because that will result in destruction of (the enjoyment of) the inheritance.

Then Joshua 15:33-47 mention the cities in the lowland. That is the low part of the land between the sea and the mountains of Judea. The low speaks of the realm of Christian life where heavenly blessings are shown, the practical life of faith of every day. In the letter to the Ephesians, those territories are seen in marriages and families and working environment. Wives and husbands (Ephesians 5:22-33), children and parents (Ephesians 6:1-4), slaves and masters are all addressed (Ephesians 6:5-9).

There are also cities in the hill country (Joshua 15:48-60). This relates to knowing the blessings in Christ in the heavenly places. Paul prays for the believers in Ephesus that they will know their blessings (Ephesians 1:17-21). John is carried away “in the spirit to a great and high mountain” to see the new Jerusalem, that is the church (Revelation 21:10). Churches like Ephesus are located “in the hill country”. Are there still such churches in professing Christianity today?

Finally, the cities are mentioned in the wilderness of Judea, east of the mountains to the Dead Sea (Joshua 15:61-62). Judea is constantly reminded of the wilderness, its aridity. The awareness of all the blessings in heaven also includes the awareness that this world has nothing to offer for faith. In the kingdom of peace, however, the wilderness will blossom profusely “like the crocus” (Isaiah 35:1). That is what faith looks forward to.