Jos 24:3-13 | KingComments | STEP | In the history of Abraham we find the truth of repentance and faith. He is called out of idolatry ( ). With him we see faith in the midst of all unbelief. By referring to Abraham’s idolatry Joshua points out that the idols are not only found around them, but that it is in their nature, in their hearts. We are also no better than the people around us. We used to belong to that company as well ( ; ). That God takes Abraham shows His election. Abraham is no better than his surroundings. God grants Isaac as the son in whom He will fulfill His promises. He gives Jacob and Esau to Isaac. He gives Esau Mount Seir as an inheritance, so that the land of Canaan will be entirely for the descendants of Jacob.

‏ Joshua 24:3-13

Previous History

In the history of Abraham we find the truth of repentance and faith. He is called out of idolatry (1Thes 1:9). With him we see faith in the midst of all unbelief. By referring to Abraham’s idolatry Joshua points out that the idols are not only found around them, but that it is in their nature, in their hearts. We are also no better than the people around us. We used to belong to that company as well (Eph 2:3; Tit 3:3).

That God takes Abraham shows His election. Abraham is no better than his surroundings. God grants Isaac as the son in whom He will fulfill His promises. He gives Jacob and Esau to Isaac. He gives Esau Mount Seir as an inheritance, so that the land of Canaan will be entirely for the descendants of Jacob.

What God Has Done for His People

In the deliverance of the people from Egypt we find the truth of redemption. This truth is found in the letter to the Romans, in which the gospel and righteousness are explained. Spiritually speaking, we are led to the plains of Moab. The wilderness journey is behind us. God has shown His faithfulness throughout the journey through the wilderness. We are now able to attack enemies and capture land.

Delivered From the Power of Balaam

In these verses we find the third aspect of Joshua’s service in comparison to Paul’s. Once in the plains of Moab we hear in the blessing of Balaam about the kingship of the LORD and about the people of this King, who reigns supreme over a king like Balak (Num 23:21 ; Num 24:7 ; 17). In the midst of God’s people, the power of God’s King, Who for us is our Lord, becomes visible. We rejoice because we go forward in the power of that King and take possession of things He has given us.

God Cleansed the Land for His People

Here we have the fourth and last aspect of the comparison between the service of Joshua and the service of Paul. The land is captured, the enemy is driven out. This is what the LORD does for His people. All they may enjoy is a gift of His grace (Eph 2:8).