Joshua 9:24

The Gibeonites answered, "Your servants were told clearly that the LORD your God had commanded His servant Moses to give you all the land and wipe out all its inhabitants before you. So we greatly feared for our lives because of you, and that is why we have done this.

Study Bible

They answered Joshua
This phrase introduces the response of the Gibeonites to Joshua, the leader of Israel. The Gibeonites, a group of Hivites, are speaking directly to Joshua, acknowledging his authority. In the historical context, Joshua is the appointed leader after Moses, tasked with leading the Israelites into the Promised Land. The Gibeonites' response is significant as it shows their recognition of Joshua's leadership and the power of the God of Israel. The Hebrew root for "answered" (עָנָה, 'anah) often implies a thoughtful or considered response, indicating that the Gibeonites have carefully planned their reply.

Your servants were clearly told
This phrase indicates that the Gibeonites had received specific instructions or information. The term "servants" reflects their position of submission and humility before Joshua and the Israelites. Historically, this reflects the common practice of vassal treaties in the ancient Near East, where lesser groups would submit to more powerful ones for protection. The phrase "clearly told" suggests that the Gibeonites were acting on direct and explicit information, which in this context, refers to their understanding of the power and actions of the Israelites and their God.

that the LORD your God
Here, the Gibeonites acknowledge the God of Israel, using the covenant name "LORD" (YHWH), which signifies the personal and relational nature of God with His people. This acknowledgment is crucial as it shows their awareness of the divine power behind Israel's success. The phrase "your God" indicates a recognition of the unique relationship between the Israelites and their God, which is a central theme throughout the Old Testament. This acknowledgment by a foreign group highlights the widespread recognition of God's power and the fulfillment of His promises to Israel.

had commanded His servant Moses
This phrase refers to the commands given by God to Moses, the previous leader of Israel. The Gibeonites' mention of Moses underscores the continuity of God's plan from Moses to Joshua. It also reflects their understanding of the historical and spiritual context of Israel's journey. The term "servant" (עֶבֶד, 'ebed) is significant as it denotes a position of honor and obedience, highlighting Moses' role as a faithful leader who carried out God's commands.

to give you all the land
This part of the verse refers to the divine promise of the land of Canaan to the Israelites. The phrase "all the land" emphasizes the totality of the promise, reflecting God's faithfulness and the scope of His covenant with Israel. Historically, this promise is rooted in the Abrahamic covenant, where God promised Abraham that his descendants would inherit the land. The Gibeonites' acknowledgment of this promise shows their understanding of the divine mandate behind Israel's conquest.

and to wipe out all its inhabitants from before you
This phrase highlights the command given to Israel to remove the inhabitants of Canaan. The term "wipe out" (הַשְׁמִיד, hashmid) is strong, indicating complete destruction, which was part of God's judgment on the Canaanite nations due to their wickedness. This command is often challenging to understand, but from a conservative Christian perspective, it is seen as a necessary act of divine justice and a means to protect Israel from idolatry and moral corruption. The Gibeonites' awareness of this command underscores their fear and desire to align themselves with Israel for survival.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Gibeonites
Inhabitants of Gibeon who deceived the Israelites into making a peace treaty with them to avoid destruction.

3. Moses
The servant of the LORD who received the command to conquer the land and destroy its inhabitants, which was passed on to Joshua.

4. The LORD (Yahweh)
The God of Israel who commanded the conquest of Canaan and the destruction of its inhabitants.

5. The Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which God promised to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Discernment
The Israelites failed to seek God's guidance before making a treaty with the Gibeonites. This teaches us the importance of seeking divine wisdom in our decisions.

Fear and Deception
The Gibeonites' fear led them to deception. Fear can drive us to make poor choices if not checked by faith and integrity.

God's Sovereignty and Mercy
Despite the deception, God used the situation for His purposes. This reminds us that God can work through our mistakes for His glory.

The Consequences of Disobedience
The Israelites' failure to fully obey God's command led to complications. Partial obedience is still disobedience.

The Power of a Covenant
The treaty with the Gibeonites, though made under false pretenses, was honored by God. This underscores the seriousness of our commitments and promises.

Bible Study Questions

1. How can we apply the lesson of seeking God's guidance in our decision-making processes today?

2. In what ways does fear influence our actions, and how can we combat it with faith?

3. What are some modern examples of how God can use our mistakes for His purposes?

4. How does the account of the Gibeonites challenge us to consider the importance of integrity in our relationships?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced the consequences of partial obedience to God. What did you learn from that experience?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 7:1-2
This passage outlines God's command to Israel to destroy the nations in Canaan, which the Gibeonites reference as their reason for fear.

Exodus 23:32-33
Warns against making covenants with the inhabitants of the land, which the Israelites inadvertently violated with the Gibeonites.

2 Samuel 21:1-6
Describes the consequences of Saul's violation of the treaty with the Gibeonites, showing the lasting impact of this event.

Hebrews 11:31
Highlights Rahab's faith, contrasting her honest plea for mercy with the Gibeonites' deceptive approach.

Matthew 10:16
Jesus advises His disciples to be "shrewd as serpents and innocent as doves," which can be related to the need for discernment in dealing with others.