Joshua 9:8

"We are your servants," they said to Joshua. Then Joshua asked them, "Who are you and where have you come from?"

Study Bible

We are your servants
This phrase is a declaration of submission and humility. In the ancient Near Eastern context, declaring oneself as a servant was a common way to express allegiance and seek protection or favor. The Hebrew word for "servant" is "עֶבֶד" (eved), which can also mean slave or bondservant. This term is used throughout the Old Testament to denote a relationship of service and loyalty, often in a covenantal context. The Gibeonites, who are speaking here, are attempting to deceive Joshua and the Israelites by presenting themselves as humble and subservient, hoping to secure a treaty and avoid destruction. This reflects a broader biblical theme where God’s people are called to discern truth from deception, relying on divine wisdom rather than appearances.

they said to Joshua
The act of speaking to Joshua signifies a direct appeal to the leader of Israel. Joshua, whose name in Hebrew is "יְהוֹשֻׁעַ" (Yehoshua), meaning "Yahweh is salvation," is a central figure in the conquest of Canaan. His leadership is divinely appointed, and he is seen as a type of Christ, leading God’s people into the Promised Land. The Gibeonites’ approach to Joshua underscores the recognition of his authority and the power of Israel under God’s guidance. This interaction highlights the importance of leadership and the responsibility of leaders to seek God’s wisdom in decision-making.

Then Joshua asked them
Joshua’s response is one of inquiry and discernment. The Hebrew verb "שָׁאַל" (sha'al) means to ask, inquire, or consult. This reflects a prudent approach, as Joshua seeks to understand the true identity and intentions of those who claim to be his servants. In the biblical narrative, asking questions is often a means of uncovering truth and gaining insight. Joshua’s questioning is a model for believers to seek understanding and clarity, especially when faced with potential deception or important decisions.

Who are you and where have you come from?
This question is twofold, addressing both identity and origin. The inquiry into "who" they are seeks to uncover their true nature and intentions. The question of "where have you come from" is significant in the context of the Israelites’ conquest of Canaan, as it pertains to the divine command to drive out the inhabitants of the land. The Gibeonites’ response to this question will determine their fate and the Israelites’ course of action. This highlights the biblical principle of knowing the source and background of those we interact with, emphasizing the need for discernment and wisdom in relationships and alliances.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The leader of the Israelites after Moses, tasked with leading the people into the Promised Land. Known for his military leadership and faithfulness to God.

2. Gibeonites
A group of people from the city of Gibeon who deceived Joshua and the Israelites into making a peace treaty with them by pretending to be from a distant land.

3. Israelites
The chosen people of God, led by Joshua, who were conquering the land of Canaan as God had commanded.

4. Canaan
The land promised by God to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, which the Israelites were in the process of conquering.

5. Deception Event
The Gibeonites' ruse to secure a treaty with Israel, which involved disguising themselves and presenting themselves as travelers from a distant land.

Teaching Points

Discernment in Leadership
Leaders must seek God's guidance in all decisions, especially when making covenants or agreements. Joshua's failure to consult God led to unintended consequences.

The Importance of Seeking God’s Counsel
Before making significant decisions, it is crucial to seek God's wisdom and direction. This aligns with the biblical principle of acknowledging God in all our ways (Proverbs 3:5-6).

The Consequences of Deception
Deception can lead to long-term consequences and complications. The Gibeonites' deception resulted in a binding treaty that affected Israel's future.

God’s Sovereignty and Grace
Despite human errors, God can use situations for His purposes. The Gibeonites became servants, contributing to the work of the tabernacle, showing God's ability to bring good from human mistakes.

Integrity in Relationships
As believers, we are called to be people of integrity, ensuring our actions and words align with God's truth, avoiding deceit in our interactions.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from Joshua's response to the Gibeonites about the importance of discernment in leadership?

2. How does the Gibeonites' deception illustrate the need for seeking God's counsel in our decisions? Can you think of a time when you made a decision without seeking God's guidance?

3. In what ways does the account of the Gibeonites show the long-term impact of our decisions and agreements? How can this be applied to our commitments today?

4. How does the eventual role of the Gibeonites in Israel's community demonstrate God's sovereignty and grace despite human error?

5. Reflect on a situation where integrity was challenged in your life. How can the principles from Joshua 9:8 guide you in maintaining integrity in future interactions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 20:10-18
Provides the laws regarding making treaties with distant nations versus those within the land of Canaan, highlighting the Gibeonites' deception.

2 Samuel 21:1-6
Discusses the consequences of Saul breaking the treaty with the Gibeonites, showing the long-term impact of the covenant made in Joshua 9.

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