Numbers 32:12
not one except Caleb son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite and Joshua son of Nun--because they did follow the LORD wholeheartedly.'
not one except Caleb son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite and Joshua son of Nun—
This phrase highlights the unique faithfulness of Caleb and Joshua among the Israelites. Caleb, identified as the son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite, indicates his association with the Kenizzites, a clan that was integrated into the tribe of Judah. This integration reflects the inclusivity of God's covenant, extending beyond ethnic Israel. Joshua, the son of Nun, from the tribe of Ephraim, is a central figure in leading Israel into the Promised Land. Both men were among the twelve spies sent to Canaan (Numbers 13), but only they trusted in God's promise despite the daunting circumstances. Their faith set them apart, allowing them to enter the Promised Land when others of their generation perished in the wilderness.

because they did follow the LORD wholeheartedly.’
This phrase underscores the complete devotion and obedience of Caleb and Joshua to God. The term "wholeheartedly" implies a total commitment without reservation, a theme echoed throughout Scripture as a requirement for true discipleship (Deuteronomy 6:5, Matthew 22:37). Their faithfulness serves as a model for believers, illustrating the blessings of obedience and trust in God. This wholehearted following is a type of Christ, who perfectly obeyed the Father (John 5:19). Caleb and Joshua's faithfulness prefigures the ultimate faithfulness of Jesus, who leads His people into the eternal Promised Land. Their example challenges believers to live with unwavering faith and dedication to God's commands.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Caleb son of Jephunneh
A member of the tribe of Judah, Caleb is noted for his faithfulness and courage. He was one of the twelve spies sent to Canaan and, along with Joshua, gave a positive report, trusting in God's promise.

2. Joshua son of Nun
From the tribe of Ephraim, Joshua was Moses' assistant and later became the leader of Israel after Moses. He is known for his unwavering faith and leadership in bringing the Israelites into the Promised Land.

3. The Kenizzite
This term refers to Caleb's lineage, indicating his descent from the Kenizzites, a group associated with Edom. Despite not being an Israelite by birth, Caleb's faithfulness earned him a place among God's people.

4. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal presence and faithfulness to His promises.

5. Wholeheartedly
This term highlights the complete and undivided devotion Caleb and Joshua had towards God, setting them apart from the rest of the Israelites who doubted.
Teaching Points
Wholehearted Devotion
Caleb and Joshua's example teaches us the importance of following God with complete dedication, trusting His promises even when circumstances seem daunting.

Faith Over Fear
Their account encourages believers to choose faith over fear, reminding us that God rewards those who trust Him fully.

God's Faithfulness
The account underscores God's faithfulness to His promises, assuring us that He honors those who remain steadfast in their faith.

Inclusivity in God's Plan
Caleb's inclusion as a Kenizzite shows that God's promises and blessings extend beyond ethnic boundaries to all who are faithful.

Leadership and Influence
Joshua's leadership exemplifies how faithfulness can position us to lead and influence others towards God's purposes.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does Caleb's background as a Kenizzite influence our understanding of God's inclusivity in His covenant promises?

2. In what ways can we demonstrate wholehearted devotion to God in our daily lives, similar to Caleb and Joshua?

3. How does the faith of Caleb and Joshua challenge us to respond to seemingly insurmountable challenges in our own lives?

4. What lessons can we learn from the consequences faced by the Israelites who did not follow God wholeheartedly?

5. How can the leadership qualities of Joshua inspire us to lead others in faith and obedience to God?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Deuteronomy 1:36
This verse reiterates Caleb's faithfulness and God's promise to him, emphasizing the reward for his wholehearted devotion.

Joshua 14:6-14
Caleb's request for Hebron as his inheritance is granted, fulfilling God's promise due to his faithfulness.

Hebrews 3:16-19
This passage reflects on the unbelief of the Israelites in the wilderness, contrasting it with the faith of Caleb and Joshua.
A Thorough Exposure of a Selfish PropositionD. Young Numbers 32:6-15
The Expostulation of MosesHenry, MatthewNumbers 32:6-15
The Faithful Rebuke of MosesW. Jones.Numbers 32:6-15
The Sin of Discouraging Our BrethrenG. Wagner.Numbers 32:6-15
People
Amorites, Caleb, Eleazar, Eshcol, Gad, Gadites, Haran, Isaac, Israelites, Jacob, Jair, Jephunneh, Joseph, Joshua, Machir, Makirites, Manasseh, Moses, Nobah, Nun, Og, Reuben, Reubenites, Sihon
Places
Aroer, Ataroth, Atroth-shophan, Bashan, Beon, Beth-baal-meon, Beth-haran, Beth-nimrah, Canaan, Dibon, Egypt, Elealeh, Gilead, Havvoth-jair, Heshbon, Jazer, Jogbehah, Jordan River, Kadesh-barnea, Kenath, Kiriathaim, Nebo, Nimrah, Nobah, Sebam, Sibmah, Valley of Eshcol
Topics
Caleb, Completely, Except, Followed, Fully, Jephunneh, Jephun'neh, Joshua, Kenezite, Kenizzite, Ken'izzite, None, Nun, Save, Wholeheartedly, Wholly
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Numbers 32:1-33

     5910   motives, examples

Numbers 32:1-38

     7266   tribes of Israel

Numbers 32:8-15

     6712   propitiation

Numbers 32:9-13

     6218   provoking God

Numbers 32:10-13

     6173   guilt, and God

Numbers 32:11-12

     8225   devotion

Library
Numbers
Like the last part of Exodus, and the whole of Leviticus, the first part of Numbers, i.-x. 28--so called,[1] rather inappropriately, from the census in i., iii., (iv.), xxvi.--is unmistakably priestly in its interests and language. Beginning with a census of the men of war (i.) and the order of the camp (ii.), it devotes specific attention to the Levites, their numbers and duties (iii., iv.). Then follow laws for the exclusion of the unclean, v. 1-4, for determining the manner and amount of restitution
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament

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