Deuteronomy 31:23

Then the LORD commissioned Joshua son of Nun and said, "Be strong and courageous, for you will bring the Israelites into the land that I swore to give them, and I will be with you."

Study Bible

Then the LORD commissioned Joshua son of Nun
This phrase marks a significant transition in leadership from Moses to Joshua. Joshua, the son of Nun, is being divinely appointed to lead the Israelites. This commissioning is a fulfillment of earlier promises and preparations, as Joshua had been Moses' assistant and had proven his faithfulness and leadership capabilities (Exodus 24:13, Numbers 27:18-23). The use of "commissioned" indicates a formal and authoritative appointment, emphasizing that Joshua's leadership is ordained by God, not merely a human decision.

and said, “Be strong and courageous,
This exhortation is repeated multiple times in the context of Joshua's leadership (Joshua 1:6-9). It underscores the challenges Joshua will face and the need for divine strength and courage. The phrase is a call to trust in God's power and presence rather than relying on human strength. It reflects a common biblical theme where God's leaders are encouraged to rely on Him in the face of daunting tasks (1 Chronicles 28:20, 2 Timothy 1:7).

for you will bring the Israelites into the land
This statement reaffirms the promise made to the patriarchs—Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob—regarding the Promised Land (Genesis 12:7, Genesis 15:18-21). Joshua's role is pivotal in the fulfillment of this covenant promise. The land represents not just a physical territory but also a place of rest and blessing for God's people, symbolizing God's faithfulness and the realization of His promises.

that I swore to give them,
The land is a divine gift, sworn by God Himself, highlighting the covenantal relationship between God and Israel. This oath is rooted in God's unchanging nature and His commitment to His people (Deuteronomy 7:8-9). The swearing of an oath by God emphasizes the certainty and seriousness of His promises, which are irrevocable and assured (Hebrews 6:13-18).

and I will be with you.”
This assurance of God's presence is crucial for Joshua's success and is a recurring promise throughout Scripture (Exodus 33:14, Matthew 28:20). It signifies divine guidance, protection, and empowerment. The presence of God with Joshua is a type of Christ, who is Immanuel, "God with us" (Isaiah 7:14, Matthew 1:23). This promise provides comfort and confidence, ensuring that Joshua's leadership will be undergirded by divine support.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who is faithful to His promises and commands.

2. Joshua son of Nun
The appointed leader of Israel after Moses, tasked with leading the Israelites into the Promised Land.

3. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, who are on the brink of entering the Promised Land.

4. The Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which God swore to give to the descendants of Abraham as an everlasting possession.

5. Commissioning of Joshua
A pivotal event where God formally appoints Joshua as the leader to succeed Moses and lead the people into their inheritance.

Teaching Points

Divine Commissioning
God personally commissions leaders for His purposes. Just as Joshua was chosen and empowered, believers are called and equipped for their unique roles in God's kingdom.

Strength and Courage
The repeated command to be strong and courageous is a reminder that God's work often requires boldness and reliance on His strength rather than our own.

God's Faithfulness
The promise of God's presence with Joshua underscores His faithfulness to His promises. Believers can trust that God will be with them as they walk in obedience to His calling.

Leadership Transition
The transition from Moses to Joshua highlights the importance of preparing and empowering new leaders to continue God's work. Mentorship and discipleship are crucial in the body of Christ.

Entering the Promised Land
For the Israelites, entering the Promised Land was a fulfillment of God's promise. For believers, it symbolizes entering into the fullness of God's promises through faith and obedience.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the commissioning of Joshua in Deuteronomy 31:23 reflect God's faithfulness to His promises?

2. In what ways can believers today draw strength and courage from God's presence as Joshua did?

3. How does the transition of leadership from Moses to Joshua inform our understanding of mentorship and discipleship in the church?

4. What are some "Promised Lands" or areas of promise that God is calling you to step into with faith and obedience?

5. How can the assurance of God's presence, as seen in Deuteronomy 31:23, impact your daily walk and decision-making?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 1:6-9
This passage reiterates God's command to Joshua to be strong and courageous, emphasizing the importance of meditating on the Law and God's promise to be with him.

Numbers 27:18-23
This earlier passage describes the initial appointment of Joshua as Moses' successor, highlighting the laying on of hands and the transfer of leadership.

Hebrews 13:5-6
This New Testament passage echoes the promise of God's presence, encouraging believers to be content and courageous because God will never leave nor forsake them.

1 Chronicles 28:20
David's charge to Solomon mirrors God's charge to Joshua, emphasizing strength, courage, and the assurance of God's presence in fulfilling His purposes.