Joshua 17:12

But the descendants of Manasseh were unable to occupy these cities, because the Canaanites were determined to stay in this land.

Study Bible

But the descendants of Manasseh
The tribe of Manasseh was one of the twelve tribes of Israel, named after one of Joseph's sons. Historically, Manasseh was one of the two half-tribes, with land on both sides of the Jordan River. This phrase highlights the continuity of God's promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, as their descendants are now in the Promised Land. The tribe's inability to fully possess their inheritance reflects the ongoing struggle between faithfulness to God's commands and the challenges posed by the surrounding cultures.

were unable to occupy these cities
The Hebrew root for "unable" suggests a lack of strength or capability. This inability is not just physical but also spiritual, as it reflects a failure to fully trust in God's power to deliver the land into their hands. The cities in question were part of the inheritance promised to Manasseh, yet their occupation was incomplete. This serves as a reminder of the importance of reliance on God rather than human strength alone.

because the Canaanites were determined
The Canaanites, the original inhabitants of the land, were known for their fortified cities and advanced military capabilities. The word "determined" indicates a strong resolve or stubbornness. This determination of the Canaanites to remain in the land represents the persistent opposition that God's people often face from the world. It underscores the spiritual warfare that believers must engage in, relying on God's strength to overcome.

to stay in this land
The land was a central element of God's covenant with Israel, symbolizing His promise and blessing. The Canaanites' desire to stay in the land highlights the ongoing conflict between God's people and those who do not acknowledge Him. This phrase serves as a metaphor for the Christian life, where believers are called to claim and live out the promises of God amidst a world that often resists His rule. The struggle to fully possess the land is a call to perseverance and faithfulness in the face of opposition.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Descendants of Manasseh
One of the tribes of Israel, named after Manasseh, the firstborn son of Joseph. They were allotted land on both sides of the Jordan River.

2. Canaanites
The original inhabitants of the land of Canaan, known for their idolatrous practices and resistance to the Israelites' conquest.

3. The Land of Canaan
The region promised by God to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, which the Israelites were commanded to conquer and settle.

Teaching Points

Incomplete Obedience Leads to Compromise
The failure of the Manasseh tribe to fully obey God's command to drive out the Canaanites resulted in compromise and future spiritual challenges. Partial obedience can lead to spiritual stagnation and vulnerability to sin.

The Danger of Coexistence with Sin
Allowing sin to coexist in our lives, much like the Israelites allowed the Canaanites to remain, can lead to spiritual decay. We must be vigilant in removing sin from our lives to maintain a pure relationship with God.

Trust in God's Promises and Power
The Israelites' inability to drive out the Canaanites reflects a lack of trust in God's promise and power. Believers today are called to trust in God's strength to overcome challenges and fulfill His promises.

The Importance of Spiritual Warfare
Just as the Israelites faced physical battles, Christians face spiritual battles. Ephesians 6:10-18 reminds us to put on the full armor of God to stand firm against spiritual forces.

Bible Study Questions

1. What were the consequences for the tribe of Manasseh in not fully driving out the Canaanites, and how can this serve as a warning for us today?

2. How does the presence of the Canaanites among the Israelites illustrate the dangers of allowing sin to remain in our lives?

3. In what ways can we ensure that we are fully obedient to God's commands, rather than settling for partial obedience?

4. How can we apply the concept of spiritual warfare in our daily lives to overcome the challenges we face?

5. Reflect on a time when you trusted in God's promises despite difficult circumstances. How did that experience strengthen your faith?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Judges 1:27-28
This passage parallels Joshua 17:12, describing the failure of the tribe of Manasseh to drive out the Canaanites completely, which led to the Canaanites living among them and eventually being subjected to forced labor.

Exodus 23:29-33
God warns the Israelites about the dangers of allowing the Canaanites to remain in the land, emphasizing the risk of idolatry and the need for complete obedience to His commands.

Deuteronomy 7:1-5
God commands the Israelites to completely destroy the Canaanite nations to prevent them from leading Israel into sin through idolatry and intermarriage.