Joshua 18:4

Appoint three men from each tribe, and I will send them out to survey the land and map it out, according to the inheritance of each. Then they will return to me

Study Bible

Appoint three men from each tribe
In this directive, Joshua is organizing a systematic approach to dividing the Promised Land among the tribes of Israel. The number three may symbolize completeness and thoroughness, ensuring a balanced representation from each tribe. This method reflects the importance of order and fairness in the distribution of the land, which was a fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham (Genesis 12:7). The appointment of representatives from each tribe underscores the communal and participatory nature of this task, emphasizing unity and shared responsibility.

and I will send them out to survey the land
The act of surveying the land involves a detailed examination and assessment of the territory. This task required careful observation and recording, which was crucial for an accurate division of the land. The surveyors were to gather firsthand information, which would later be used to allocate the land according to God's instructions. This process highlights the importance of preparation and diligence in fulfilling God's promises. It also reflects the Israelites' transition from a nomadic lifestyle to settling in a land of their own, a significant shift in their history.

and map it out, according to the inheritance of each
Mapping the land was an essential step in ensuring that each tribe received its rightful inheritance. This phrase indicates a methodical approach to dividing the land, taking into account the size and needs of each tribe. The concept of inheritance is deeply rooted in the covenantal promises made to the patriarchs, where the land was a tangible sign of God's faithfulness. This allocation was not arbitrary but divinely ordained, reflecting God's sovereignty and justice. The mapping process also foreshadows the spiritual inheritance believers receive through Christ, as mentioned in Ephesians 1:11.

Then they will return to me
The return of the surveyors to Joshua signifies accountability and the completion of their mission. It underscores the importance of reporting and verifying the gathered information before making final decisions. This step ensures transparency and trust in the process, as Joshua, the leader appointed by God, would oversee the final distribution. The return also symbolizes the fulfillment of God's promises, as the Israelites were on the brink of fully possessing the land. This moment can be seen as a type of Christ's return, where believers will receive their eternal inheritance, as described in Revelation 21:1-4.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The leader of Israel after Moses, tasked with leading the Israelites into the Promised Land and overseeing its division among the tribes.

2. Israelite Tribes
The twelve tribes of Israel, each of which is to receive a portion of the Promised Land as their inheritance.

3. Surveyors
Three men from each tribe chosen to survey and map the land, ensuring a fair and accurate division according to God's promise.

4. Promised Land
The land of Canaan, promised by God to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, to be divided among the tribes of Israel.

5. Shiloh
The place where the Israelites gathered and where the tabernacle was set up, serving as a central location for the division of the land.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Instructions
The Israelites were to follow God's specific instructions for dividing the land, highlighting the importance of obedience in receiving God's promises.

Unity and Cooperation
The selection of three men from each tribe emphasizes the need for unity and cooperation among the tribes in fulfilling God's plan.

Faith in God's Provision
The division of the land according to God's promise serves as a reminder of His faithfulness and provision for His people.

Stewardship and Responsibility
The task of surveying the land required diligence and accuracy, teaching us about the importance of stewardship in our responsibilities.

Trust in God's Timing
The process of dividing the land was methodical and required patience, reminding us to trust in God's timing and plan for our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. What qualities do you think were important for the men chosen to survey the land, and how can we apply these qualities in our own responsibilities today?

2. How does the division of the land among the tribes reflect God's faithfulness to His promises, and how can this encourage us in our faith journey?

3. In what ways does the cooperation among the tribes in surveying the land serve as a model for unity in the church today?

4. How can we ensure that we are being good stewards of the responsibilities and resources God has entrusted to us?

5. Reflect on a time when you had to trust in God's timing. How did that experience strengthen your faith and reliance on Him?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Numbers 34
This chapter outlines the boundaries of the Promised Land and the initial instructions for its division, providing context for the surveying process in Joshua 18.

Deuteronomy 1
Moses recounts the journey to the Promised Land and the importance of obedience to God's commands, which is foundational to the division of the land.

Proverbs 16:9
This verse speaks to the sovereignty of God in guiding human plans, relevant to the surveying and division of the land as directed by God through Joshua.