Joshua 6:18

But keep away from the things devoted to destruction, lest you yourself be set apart for destruction. If you take any of these, you will set apart the camp of Israel for destruction and bring disaster upon it.

Study Bible

But keep away from the things devoted to destruction
This phrase refers to the items in Jericho that were to be completely destroyed as an offering to God. In the context of ancient warfare, "devoted to destruction" (Hebrew: herem) meant that certain items were to be completely destroyed or given to God, signifying total consecration. This command underscores the holiness of God and the need for Israel to remain pure and obedient. The concept of herem is seen in other parts of the Old Testament, such as in Deuteronomy 7:2, where God commands Israel to destroy the Canaanite nations completely. This reflects the seriousness of sin and the need for separation from anything that could lead to idolatry or moral corruption.

lest you yourself be set apart for destruction
This warning highlights the consequences of disobedience. If the Israelites took any of the devoted items, they would themselves become subject to the same destruction intended for Jericho. This reflects the principle of divine justice and the seriousness of covenant faithfulness. The idea of being "set apart" for destruction is a sobering reminder of the consequences of sin, as seen in the story of Achan in Joshua 7, who disobeyed this command and brought judgment upon himself and Israel.

If you take any of these
The conditional "if" indicates the potential for disobedience and the human tendency to covet. This serves as a test of Israel's faithfulness and trust in God's provision. The temptation to take spoils of war was strong, but obedience required trust in God's plan and provision. This echoes the temptation in the Garden of Eden, where taking what was forbidden led to sin and separation from God.

you will set apart the camp of Israel for destruction
This phrase emphasizes the communal nature of sin and its consequences. One person's disobedience could bring judgment upon the entire community, highlighting the interconnectedness of the people of God. This principle is seen throughout Scripture, such as in 1 Corinthians 5:6, where Paul warns that a little leaven leavens the whole lump, illustrating how sin can affect the entire body of believers.

and bring disaster upon it
The disaster refers to the divine judgment that would follow disobedience. This serves as a warning of the serious consequences of sin and the importance of holiness among God's people. The disaster that befell Israel due to Achan's sin (Joshua 7) serves as a historical example of this principle. It underscores the need for vigilance and obedience in the life of faith, as well as the mercy and justice of God in dealing with sin.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The leader of the Israelites after Moses, tasked with leading the people into the Promised Land.

2. Jericho
The first city in the Promised Land that the Israelites were commanded to conquer.

3. The Israelites
God's chosen people, who are being led into the Promised Land.

4. The Ban (Herem)
The command to devote certain things to destruction, often as an act of divine judgment.

5. The Camp of Israel
The community of Israelites, which could be affected by individual disobedience.

Teaching Points

The Seriousness of Obedience
God’s commands are not to be taken lightly. Disobedience can have severe consequences not just for the individual but for the community.

The Concept of Holiness
The Israelites were called to be set apart. This required them to avoid things that were devoted to destruction, symbolizing the need for purity and holiness in our lives.

Corporate Responsibility
Individual actions can impact the entire community. This teaches us the importance of accountability and integrity within the body of Christ.

Avoiding Temptation
Just as the Israelites were warned to keep away from the accursed things, believers today must be vigilant in avoiding sin and temptation.

Trust in God’s Provision
The command to destroy rather than take spoils was a test of faith, trusting that God would provide for their needs without relying on the plunder of Jericho.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the command to avoid the accursed things teach us about the nature of sin and its impact on our lives and communities?

2. How can we apply the principle of being "set apart" in our daily lives, especially in a culture that often contradicts biblical values?

3. In what ways does the account of Achan (Joshua 7) illustrate the consequences of disobedience to God's commands?

4. How can we ensure that our actions do not negatively impact our church community or family?

5. Reflect on a time when you had to trust in God's provision rather than relying on what seemed immediately beneficial. How did that experience strengthen your faith?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 27:28-29
Discusses the concept of things devoted to the Lord, which cannot be redeemed or sold.

Deuteronomy 7:25-26
Warns against bringing abominable things into one's house, lest they become accursed like them.

1 Samuel 15:22-23
Highlights the importance of obedience over sacrifice, relating to Saul's failure to fully carry out God's command.

Acts 5:1-11
The account of Ananias and Sapphira, who kept back part of the proceeds, showing the seriousness of deceit and disobedience.

2 Corinthians 6:14-18
Encourages believers to separate themselves from ungodliness, echoing the call to holiness.