Joshua 14:6

Then the sons of Judah approached Joshua at Gilgal, and Caleb son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite said to him, "You know what the LORD said to Moses the man of God at Kadesh-barnea about you and me.

Study Bible

Then the sons of Judah approached Joshua at Gilgal
The tribe of Judah, one of the twelve tribes of Israel, is significant in biblical history as it is the tribe from which King David and ultimately Jesus Christ descended. Gilgal is an important location in Israel's history, serving as the first campsite of the Israelites after crossing the Jordan River into the Promised Land. It was here that the Israelites renewed their covenant with God through circumcision and celebrated the Passover (Joshua 5:2-12). This setting underscores the continuity of God's promises and the fulfillment of His covenant with Israel.

and Caleb son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite said to him
Caleb is a prominent figure known for his faithfulness and courage. He was one of the twelve spies sent by Moses to scout the Promised Land and, along with Joshua, gave a positive report, trusting in God's promise (Numbers 13:30, 14:6-9). The mention of Caleb as a Kenizzite indicates his non-Israelite origin, as the Kenizzites were a clan associated with Edom. This highlights the inclusivity of God's covenant, as Caleb is fully integrated into the tribe of Judah and the people of Israel due to his faith and loyalty.

“You know what the LORD said to Moses the man of God at Kadesh-barnea about you and me.
Kadesh-barnea is a significant location where the Israelites camped in the wilderness and from where the spies were sent into Canaan (Numbers 13:26). It is here that God made a promise to Caleb and Joshua, assuring them that they would enter the Promised Land because of their faithfulness (Numbers 14:24, 30). The reference to Moses as "the man of God" emphasizes his role as a prophet and leader through whom God communicated His will. This phrase underscores the reliability of God's promises and the importance of faith and obedience in receiving God's blessings.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The leader of Israel after Moses, responsible for leading the Israelites into the Promised Land.

2. Caleb
Son of Jephunneh, a member of the tribe of Judah, known for his faithfulness and courage.

3. Jephunneh
Caleb's father, identified as a Kenizzite, which indicates a non-Israelite origin, yet fully integrated into the tribe of Judah.

4. Judah
One of the twelve tribes of Israel, from which Caleb hails.

5. Gilgal
A significant location in the Israelite conquest of Canaan, serving as a base camp for Joshua and the Israelites.

6. Kadesh-barnea
A location in the wilderness where the Israelites camped and from where the twelve spies, including Caleb, were sent to scout the Promised Land.

Teaching Points

Faithfulness and Reward
Caleb's account is a powerful reminder that God rewards faithfulness. Despite the majority report of fear, Caleb stood firm in his trust in God's promise.

Courage in the Minority
Caleb's courage to stand against the majority opinion teaches us the importance of holding onto God's truth, even when it is unpopular.

Heritage and Identity
Caleb's Kenizzite background shows that faith in God transcends ethnic and cultural boundaries, integrating all who believe into His promises.

Remembrance of God's Promises
Caleb's reference to God's promise through Moses encourages believers to remember and hold onto God's promises in their lives.

Leadership and Influence
Joshua and Caleb's leadership exemplifies how godly influence can guide others towards faithfulness and obedience to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Caleb's faithfulness in the face of opposition challenge you in your current circumstances?

2. In what ways can you stand firm in God's promises when faced with societal pressures or majority opinions?

3. How does Caleb's Kenizzite heritage encourage you to embrace your identity in Christ, regardless of your background?

4. What are some specific promises from God that you need to remember and hold onto in your life today?

5. How can you be a godly influence in your community, similar to Joshua and Caleb, encouraging others towards faithfulness and obedience?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 13-14
These chapters recount the sending of the twelve spies, including Caleb, to explore Canaan and the subsequent report that led to Israel's rebellion and wandering in the wilderness.

Deuteronomy 1:34-36
This passage highlights God's promise to Caleb for his faithfulness, ensuring that he would inherit the land he explored.

Hebrews 3:7-19
This New Testament passage reflects on the faith and unbelief of the Israelites, using their wilderness experience as a warning and encouragement for believers to remain faithful.