The Gibeonite Deception

The Gibeonite Deception

And it came to pass, when all the kings which were on this side Jordan, in the hills, and in the valleys, and in all the coasts of the great sea over against Lebanon, the Hittite, and the Amorite, the Canaanite, the Perizzite, the Hivite, and the Jebusite, heard thereof; Jos. 9:1

came to pass... Having a common enemy often unites people. This should surely be true of Christians who have the most deadly enemy of all—Satan. Here the various Canaanite kings, seeing they would be defeated individually, united to make one great effort against Israel (Jos. 9:1-2). The Septuagint adds "the Gergasites" to this list.

That they gathered themselves together, to fight with Joshua and with Israel, with one accord. Jos. 9:2

Israel’s failure to consult the Lord was a major factor in her defeat at Ai and the prayerlessness of her leaders was about to precipitate another crisis.

It all came about when it was least expected. The people had just returned to camp at Gilgal after hearing the Law of God read to them at Mounts Ebal and Gerizim. Much of the Law was inscribed on stones as Israel affirmed her willingness to obey God’s Word. It was a time of spiritual victory; it was also a time for a subtle attack from Satan. When God’s people think they “have it made” they are most vulnerable to the enemy’s assault.

That they gathered... This story unfolds in the next two chapters of the Book of Joshua — the alliance with the Gibeonites (Jos. 9:1-27) and the defense of the Gibeonites (Jos. 10:1-43).

to fight with... Israel’s victories over Jericho and Ai aroused the whole country to concerted action. These verses prepare the reader for the southern and northern campaigns of the Conquest, described in Jos. 10:1-43 and 11:1-23.

And when the inhabitants of Gibeon heard what Joshua had done unto Jericho and to Ai, Jos. 9:3

And when the... Gibeon was a city about 7 miles from Bethel and 8 miles northwest of Jerusalem. Being about 10 miles from Ai and about 18 west of Gilgal, the inhabitants likely thought they would be next on Joshua’s list of places to conquer. Gibeon was the head of four towns, the others being Chephirah, Beeroth, and Kirjath-jearim—all occupied by Hivites (Jos. 9:7, 9:17; 11:19), called Amorites (2Sa. 21:2), the word being a general term for the Canaanite nations. These four towns apparently had a republican form of government.

Gibeon was an important city. It lay at the head of the pass of Beth-horon, opposite the pass of Ai, and on the main route from Jerusalem and the lower Jordan valley to Joppa and the Mediterranean Sea. Gibeon fell within the lot of Benjamin (Jos. 18:25), and was one of the cities of the priests (Jos. 21:17). Several important events took place here: the slaughter of Gibeonites by Saul (2Sa. 21:1-22); the contest between Saul and David’s servants (2Sa. 2:12-24; 3:30); the slaying of Amasa (2Sa. 20:8-13); and the vision of Solomon (1Ki. 2:4-5; 9:2). It was at Gibeon that the sun was commanded to stand still (Jos. 10:12). The sanctuary was located here for a long time (1Ki. 3:4-5; 8:4; 9:2; 1Ch. 21:29; 2Ch. 1:3, 1:13). At Gibeon Joshua became victor over five kings of Canaan, giving him possession of the southern half of Israel (Jos. 10:1-43). In another great battle (of Merom) he gained victory over the northern part (Joshua 11-12), thus conquering most of Israel in two campaigns.

They did work wilily, and went and made as if they had been ambassadors, and took old sacks upon their asses, and wine bottles, old, and rent, and bound up; Jos. 9:4

They did work... Six steps: outwitting Joshua and Israel:

1. Deception prepared (Jos. 9:3-5)

2. Deception proposed to Joshua (Jos. 9:6-8)

3. Deception carried out (Jos. 9:9-13)

4. Deception successful (Jos. 9:14-15)

5. Deception discovered (Jos. 9:16-17)

6. Deception punished (Jos. 9:20-27)

and rent... When bottles made of skins get old they are easily torn. Repairs were made a number of ways: by sewing the broken edges together, by inserting a piece of leather, by putting a round piece of wood in the hole, or by gathering up the torn piece like the opening of a bag. Mat. 9:17.

And old shoes and clouted upon their feet, and old garments upon them; and all the bread of their provision was dry and mouldy. Jos. 9:5

and clouted upon... Old Anglo-Saxon word for patched, or seamed up. Every detail of the deception made it appear they were from a far country and had traveled many days before arriving at Israel’s camp. Thus, they deceived Joshua and the Israelites who had not taken time or had not thought to ask God by the Urim and Thummim.

And they went to Joshua unto the camp at Gilgal, and said unto him, and to the men of Israel, We be come from a far country: now therefore make ye a league with us. Jos. 9:6

they went to... Joshua was back in camp again after the conquest of Ai, probably waiting on God for instructions for the next move in the conquest of Canaan.

We be come... Five lies of the Gibeonites:

1. We are from a far country (Jos. 9:6, 9:9).

2. We came because of the name of the Lord your God (Jos. 9:9).

3. We took our bread hot when we started and now it is dry and moldy.

4. Our wine bottles were new when we started and now they are old and torn (Jos. 9:13).

5. Our garments and shoes were new when we started and are now worn out.

from a far... Their city was only about eighteen miles from the camp of Israel.

make ye a... Israel had been expressly forbidden to make leagues with the inhabitants of Canaan (Exo. 23:32; 34:13-17; Num. 33:51-56; Deut. 7:1-2; 20:16).

And the men of Israel said unto the Hivites, Peradventure ye dwell among us; and how shall we make a league with you? Jos. 9:7

Peradventure ye dwell...The question of being neighbors was raised, but they did not ask the Lord (Jos. 9:14), and God did not volunteer the information or interfere. He evidently wanted this to be a recorded lesson in His eternal Word for all generations to come, that He should be consulted in all human affairs, especially those that directly affect His plan for man.

how shall we... Questions 10-12. Next, Jos. 9:22.

And they said unto Joshua, We are thy servants. And Joshua said unto them, Who are ye? and from whence come ye? Jos. 9:8

they said unto... Joshua probed with questions and the wily Gibeonites told their tale. They insisted that they came from a great distance to show respect to the powerful God of the Israelites, to be allowed to live at peace as Israel’s servants.

And they said unto him, From a very far country thy servants are come because of the name of the LORD thy God: for we have heard the fame of him, and all that he did in Egypt, Jos. 9:9

we have heard... This was truth, for all that part of the world heard of the fame of God, His great name, what He did in Egypt, and what He did to Sihon and Og, and to Jericho and Ai (Jos. 9:9-10).

And all that he did to the two kings of the Amorites, that were beyond Jordan, to Sihon king of Heshbon, and to Og king of Bashan, which was at Ashtaroth. Jos. 9:10

all that he... The Gibeonites were wise not to mention the recent conquests of Jericho and Ai, because news did not travel quickly in those days; their silence thus made their claim seem genuine. They mentioned victories only down to the conquest of the east side of Jordan, which had been some months before.

did to the... Word had reached them of what God had done for the Israelites in Egypt (probably the plagues and the crossing of the Red Sea) and of God’s victories over Sihon and Og, See Num. 21:21-35; Deut. 2:30-3:17.

Wherefore our elders and all the inhabitants of our country spake to us, saying, Take victuals with you for the journey, and go to meet them, and say unto them, We are your servants: therefore now make ye a league with us. Jos. 9:11

Wherefore our elders... Three true statements by the Gibeonites:

1. We have heard of the fame of God, what He did in Egypt, and to the two kings east of Jordan (Jos. 9:9-10).

2. Our elders told us to come and say that we are your servants; therefore, make a league with us (Jos. 9:11).

3. We heard how God commanded Moses to destroy all the inhabitants of this land, so we were afraid for our lives (Jos. 9:24).

This our bread we took hot for our provision out of our houses on the day we came forth to go unto you; but now, behold, it is dry, and it is mouldy: And these bottles of wine, which we filled, were new; and, behold, they be rent: and these our garments and our shoes are become old by reason of the very long journey. Jos. 9:12, 13

This our bread... Pursuing this clever ruse they presented their credentials — moldy bread, patched wineskins, ragged clothes, and worn-out sandals — and the suspicion of Joshua and the leaders dissipated.

And the men took of their victuals, and asked not counsel at the mouth of the LORD. Jos. 9:14

took of their... Six Mistakes of Joshua and Israel

1. They ate with the Gibeonites. According to ancient custom, eating together was a token of unalterable friendship, and those who ate salt together were bound to a perpetual covenant. So deeply rooted was this custom that intended robbery has been abandoned when a robber has accidently eaten salt while getting his plunder. Likewise, men have been freed from captivity by getting their captors to eat salt with them.

2. They did not ask for God’s counsel. Without consulting God by the Urim and Thummim, they believed these men and made a covenant with them. Though He did not punish them for making the covenant, He later punished Israel for breaking it (2Sa. 21:1-9). God expects people to keep their word, even when they vow to their own hurt (Psm. 15:4). He let Israel make this mistake without intervening, and He later used it to destroy His enemies (Jos. 11:18-20).

3. Joshua made peace with the Gibeonites (Jos. 9:15).

4. He made a league with them.

5. He let them live.

6. The princes of Israel swore to them, thus making the covenant binding on all Israel. Such contracting was forbidden by law (Exo. 23:32; 34:13-17; 33:1-23:51-56; Deut.7:1-2; 20:16).

And Joshua made peace with them, and made a league with them, to let them live: and the princes of the congregation sware unto them. Jos. 9:15

Joshua made peace... If the visitors were true ambassadors with power to conclude a treaty with another nation they should have had more substantial credentials. It was foolish of Joshua not to demand them.

made a league... The second and primary reason for Israel’s failure is stated in Jos. 9:14 : the leaders did not seek direction from God. Did Joshua think the evidence to be so beyond question that they needed no advice from Yahweh? Did he think the matter too routine or unimportant to “bother” God with it? Whatever the cause it was a mistake to trust their own judgment and make their own plans. This holds true for believers in all ages (Jas. 4:13-15).

And it came to pass at the end of three days after they had made a league with them, that they heard that they were their neighbours, and that they dwelt among them. Jos. 9:16

came to pass... The deception was discovered after three days, but nothing was said about it until Israel came to their cities, and then it caused murmuring (Jos. 9:17-19).

And the children of Israel journeyed, and came unto their cities on the third day. Now their cities were Gibeon, and Chephirah, and Beeroth, and Kirjathjearim. Jos. 9:17

And the children... Chephirah and Beeroth are not mentioned except in Jos. 9:17; 18:26; 2Sa. 4:2; Ezr. 2:25; Neh. 7:29.

came unto their... Kirjath-jearim was given to Judah (Jos. 15:60; 18:14; Jdg. 18:12). It was an ancient high place and called Kirjath-Baal and Baalah (Jos. 15:9-10; 1Ch. 13:6), Kirjath (Jos. 18:28), Baale of Judah (2Sa. 6:2), and Kirjath-arim (Ezr. 2:25). It is also spoken of as belonging to Benjamin (Jos. 18:28).

And the children of Israel smote them not, because the princes of the congregation had sworn unto them by the LORD God of Israel. And all the congregation murmured against the princes. Jos. 9:18

And all the... The princes were to blame for this great mistake, so the congregation had just grounds for criticism; but such should never be carried to the point of complaining, which leads to division, strife and other evils.

But all the princes said unto all the congregation, We have sworn unto them by the LORD God of Israel: now therefore we may not touch them. Jos. 9:19

We have sworn... This answered for many acts in ancient times, when making vows and swearing by oaths were held sacred, and a man’s word was better than a written contract today. Since the princes had sworn, this bound the whole congregation to keep the covenant made with the Gibeonites.

This we will do to them; we will even let them live, lest wrath be upon us, because of the oath which we sware unto them. Jos. 9:20

This we will... Though bound by the oath of their princes not to destroy the Gibeonites, Israel found a just way to punish them for lying and deception: The Gibeonites would become servants for the congregation and the house of God (Jos. 9:20-27).

And the princes said unto them, Let them live; but let them be hewers of wood and drawers of water unto all the congregation; as the princes had promised them. Jos. 9:21

the princes said... Two main duties of Gibeonites:

1. Cut wood (Jos. 9:21, 9:23, 9:27)

2. Draw water

And Joshua called for them, and he spake unto them, saying, Wherefore have ye beguiled us, saying, We are very far from you; when ye dwell among us? Joshua therefore addressed the Gibeonites, rebuking them for their dishonesty, and announced that they were cursed to perpetual slavery. Jos. 9:22, 23

Wherefore have ye... Question 13. Next, Jos. 10:13.

and he spake... Joshua therefore addressed the Gibeonites, rebuking them for their dishonesty, and announced that they were cursed to perpetual slavery.

And they answered Joshua, and said, Because it was certainly told thy servants, how that the LORD thy God commanded his servant Moses to give you all the land, and to destroy all the inhabitants of the land from before you, therefore we were sore afraid of our lives because of you, and have done this thing. Jos. 9:24

So the very thing the Gibeonites hoped to attain they lost. They desperately wanted to remain free men; in the end they became slaves.

And now, behold, we are in thine hand: as it seemeth good and right unto thee to do unto us, do. Jos. 9:25

we are in... This was complete humiliation—proud, independent men surrendering all rights and privileges, submitting to their conquerors’ every whim.

And so did he unto them, and delivered them out of the hand of the children of Israel, that they slew them not. Jos. 9:26

and delivered them... This was the only plan that kept the Israelites from destroying the Gibeonites and taking their spoil (Jos. 9:18-19, 9:26). Whether the Israelites murmured merely because they were deprived of the spoils is not clear, but that could have been part of the trouble (Jos. 9:18). If they were influenced by such a covetous spirit, it was good to have such a disappointment.

And Joshua made them that day hewers of wood and drawers of water for the congregation, and for the altar of the LORD, even unto this day, in the place which he should choose. Jos. 9:27

In order to keep the Gibeonites’ idolatry from defiling the religion of Israel their work would be carried out in connection with the tabernacle where they would be exposed to the worship of the one true God.

in the place... But the curse became a blessing. It was on behalf of the Gibeonites that God worked a great miracle (cf. Jos. 10:10-14). Later the tabernacle was pitched at Gibeon (2Ch. 1:3); still later some Gibeonites helped Nehemiah rebuild Jerusalem’s wall (Neh. 3:7).

My Sheep Hear My Voice

My Sheep Hear My Voice

Before Jesus was crucified He told the disciples to watch and pray, something so simple, but they let their physical bodies take over and they fell back asleep. In these last hours of time you need to hear His voice. When He tells you something, it is very important, but most ignore my voice or just discuss it and go on with what they were doing. You will see many things start to happen shortly and if you do not hear and obey His voice,... it will mean death for some of you....Jesus has only your best interest in mind. Christ knows you heart, and if you are truly His you will hear His voice. He awakes many of you at 3am on the dot, but most will roll over and go back to sleep. There are a few who will get up and pray. Your day is filled with so many things and Jesus is the last thing many of you give your time to. But Christ needs to talk to you,... to fellowship with you and only when you are still and quite (3am) can you hear Him,... the rest of your day is so busy you do not have time for Him,... but you need to make time, for time is short and the Lord has instructions for you.

Revelation Chapter 10

This passage (Rev. 10:1-11:13) is the fourth parenthetical passage in the book and explains certain things which are not the contents of the trumpets or vials, but which are fulfilled in conjunction with them, as is clear from the passage itself. Chapter 10:1-11 is a vision of the “mighty angel,” chapter 11:1-2 a vision of the temple and the Holy City, and 11:3-13 a vision of the two witnesses. This fourth parenthetical passage breaks the main vision of the trumpets and is inserted between the sixth and seventh trumpets just as the first parenthetical passage is inserted between the sixth and the seventh seals. This alone is proof that it is parenthetical. As to the fulfillment of the events of this passage that is clear, chapter 10:1-11, like the first part (Rev. 7:1-8) of the first parenthetical passage, will be fulfilled in the order in which it is given. The last part of this parenthetical passage (Rev. 11:1-13) concerning the two witnesses, will be fulfilled from the middle of the Week onward like the last part of the first parenthetical passage (Rev. 7:9-17), as is clear from both passages. Thus, the parenthetical passages are inserted in their proper places and will be fulfilled in the order as given, except for a few passages, which are always clear as to their time of fulfillment. It is only natural to understand that they are to be fulfilled in the order of events in which they are inserted unless it is stated otherwise.

The Angel and the Little Scroll

"And sware by him that liveth for ever and ever, who created heaven, and the things that therein are, and the earth, and the things that therein are, and the sea, and the things which are therein, that there should be time no longer:" (Rev. 10:6).
time no longer... Greek: chronos, time (Rev. 10:6; Mat. 2:7, 2:16; 25:19; Luke 1:57; 4:5; John 5:6; 14:9; Act. 1:6-7; 3:21; etc.). The idea is that delay in the time of fulfillment of the mystery of God (Rev. 10:7) will be no longer. It could not mean that time as we know it will come to an end, for time made up of seconds, hours, days, weeks, months, and years will go on forever (Gen. 1:14, 1:18; 8:22; Psm. 72:5, 72:17; 89:36-37; Jer. 31:35-36). Time is eternal and we are in eternal time now. In this sense we are now in eternity, for we shall continue to exist forever either in heaven, earth, or hell. That time does not end here is clear from the next verse, which speaks of days continuing after this (Rev. 10:7). The rest of the revelation mentions many days, years, and times after this delay no longer (Rev. 11:1-3; 12:6, 12:14; 13:5; 20:4-7; etc.).
From the sounding of the seventh angel's trumpet, the world will move relentlessly toward the fulfillment of all the prophecies of the Bible, culminating in the coming of Christ to the earth.

This initiates the last plagues of the Day of the Lord (11:15), indicating that the time the disciples anticipated has come (Matt. 24:3; Acts 1:6). The prayers of the saints will be answered (6:9-11; Matt. 6:10).

Daniel's Time of the End

Daniel's Time of the End

Daniel 12:13 "But go thou thy way till the end [be]: for thou shalt rest, and stand in thy lot at the end of the days."

But go thou... But he will be resurrected (you will rise at the end of the days), and he will receive his allotted inheritance in the Millennium. Because of Daniel’s faith in God he led a life of faithful service for Him, and for that faith and that obedience he will receive a glorious reward. All who like Daniel trust the Lord will share in the blessings of His millennial kingdom.

for thou shalt... Soon Daniel’s own career would involve death and he shall rest. Daniel would not live to see the fulfillment of his own prophecies, but is here promised that he would be resurrected to receive his reward (thou shall stand in thy lot). All who trust in Daniel’s God will likewise be blessed.

stand in thy... This assures Daniel a part in these things after his resurrection. It teaches saints shall judge the world and rule forever under the Messiah (Dan. 2:44-45; 7:13-14, 7:18, 7:27; Luke 22:30; 1Co. 6:2-4; 2Ti. 2:12; Rev. 2:27; 5:10; 12:5; 20:4-6; 22:4-5).

Luke 21:36 "Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man."

Every individual person, who ever lived, stands before Jesus to be judged. Those who did not receive Jesus as their Savior will be judged guilty, and sent to everlasting torment.

Those who are Christians will be judged to receive their rewards. They all receive everlasting life, but some receive a reward for their work on earth.

Salvation is a free gift. It does not need to be earned. Rewards are extras.

My Sheep Hear My Voice

My Sheep Hear My Voice

Before Jesus was crucified He told the disciples to watch and pray, something so simple, but they let their physical bodies take over and they fell back asleep. In these last hours of time you need to hear His voice. When He tells you something, it is very important, but most ignore my voice or just discuss it and go on with what they were doing. You will see many things start to happen shortly and if you do not hear and obey His voice,... it will mean death for some of you....Jesus has only your best interest in mind. Christ knows you heart, and if you are truly His you will hear His voice. He awakes many of you at 3am on the dot, but most will roll over and go back to sleep. There are a few who will get up and pray. Your day is filled with so many things and Jesus is the last thing many of you give your time to. But Christ needs to talk to you,... to fellowship with you and only when you are still and quite (3am) can you hear Him,... the rest of your day is so busy you do not have time for Him,... but you need to make time, for time is short and the Lord has instructions for you.

Revelation Chapter 10

This passage (Rev. 10:1-11:13) is the fourth parenthetical passage in the book and explains certain things which are not the contents of the trumpets or vials, but which are fulfilled in conjunction with them, as is clear from the passage itself. Chapter 10:1-11 is a vision of the “mighty angel,” chapter 11:1-2 a vision of the temple and the Holy City, and 11:3-13 a vision of the two witnesses. This fourth parenthetical passage breaks the main vision of the trumpets and is inserted between the sixth and seventh trumpets just as the first parenthetical passage is inserted between the sixth and the seventh seals. This alone is proof that it is parenthetical. As to the fulfillment of the events of this passage that is clear, chapter 10:1-11, like the first part (Rev. 7:1-8) of the first parenthetical passage, will be fulfilled in the order in which it is given. The last part of this parenthetical passage (Rev. 11:1-13) concerning the two witnesses, will be fulfilled from the middle of the Week onward like the last part of the first parenthetical passage (Rev. 7:9-17), as is clear from both passages. Thus, the parenthetical passages are inserted in their proper places and will be fulfilled in the order as given, except for a few passages, which are always clear as to their time of fulfillment. It is only natural to understand that they are to be fulfilled in the order of events in which they are inserted unless it is stated otherwise.

The Angel and the Little Scroll

"And the angel which I saw stand upon the sea and upon the earth lifted up his hand to heaven," (Rev. 10:5).

the angel which... The dramatic introduction of this angel (in Rev. 10:1-4) was a preparation for the pronouncement which followed in Rev. 10:5-7. Solemnly swearing by God the eternal Creator, the angel declared, There will be no more delay! The KJV rendering, “There shall be time no longer,” has been mistakenly interpreted as an abolishment of the present time system with its sequence of events. But this is not the thought of the passage, as the NIV translation is accurate. The clear reference to God as Creator (cf. Rev. 4:11; Rev. 14:7) answers evolutionary speculation as to the origin of the earth, and it also affirms the omnipotence of God in dealing with the world in judgment when the time is ripe.

lifted up his... This Greek verb appears often in the technical sense of raising the hand to take an oath or a solemn vow (compare Dan. 12:7; Cf. Matt. 5:33-34). The hand is raised toward heaven because that is where God dwells. The angel (Christ) is taking an oath to fulfill.

Lifting the hand signifies taking an oath (Gen.14:22-23). The announcement of the angel is that there will be no more delay in the establishment of the millennial kingdom of Christ.

The Fall of Ai

The Fall of Ai

And the LORD said unto Joshua, Fear not, neither be thou dismayed: take all the people of war with thee, and arise, go up to Ai: see, I have given into thy hand the king of Ai, and his people, and his city, and his land: Jos. 8:1

the LORD said... The 8th prophecy in Joshua (Jos. 8:1-2, fulfilled, Jos. 8:3-29). Next, Jos. 8:18. Two predictions to Joshua:

1. I have given into your hand the king of Ai, his people, city, and land.

2. You shall do to Ai and their king what you did to Jericho and their king (Jos. 8:2).

neither be thou... Six commands—conquest of Ai:

1. Fear not, neither be dismayed.

2. Take all the people of war with you.

3. Arise, go over to Ai.

4. Do to Ai and their king what you did to Jericho and their king (Jos_8:2).

5. Only the spoil and cattle shall you take for yourselves.

6. Lay an ambush for the city behind it.

take all the... This command was different from the advice of the spies (in Jos. 7:3) who told Joshua to take only 2,000 or 3,000 men, suggesting they could easily overcome the city.

And thou shalt do to Ai and her king as thou didst unto Jericho and her king: only the spoil thereof, and the cattle thereof, shall ye take for a prey unto yourselves: lay thee an ambush for the city behind it. Jos. 8:2

only the spoil... After Jericho, God let the spoils of war go to Israel, as provided in the law (Num. 31:22-54).

shall ye take... Before the actual plan of battle was revealed to Joshua he was told that the spoil of Ai and also its livestock could be taken by Israel. Jericho had been placed under the ban but Ai was not.

What an irony! If only Achan had suppressed his greedy and selfish desires and obeyed God’s word at Jericho he would later have had all his heart desired and God’s blessing too. The path of obedience and faith is always best.

So Joshua arose, and all the people of war, to go up against Ai: and Joshua chose out thirty thousand mighty men of valour, and sent them away by night. Jos. 8:3

The order of events at Ai differed entirely from that at Jericho. The Israelites did not march around the walls of Ai seven times. The city’s walls did not fall miraculously. Israel had to conquer the city through a normal combat operation. God is not limited to any one method of working. He is not and will not be stereotyped in His operations.

And he commanded them, saying, Behold, ye shall lie in wait against the city, even behind the city: go not very far from the city, but be ye all ready: Jos. 8:4

he commanded them... Here is Joshua’s strategy for the next conquest (Jos. 8:4-8, Jos. 8:12-19). God Himself commanded this (Jos. 8:2).

shall lie in... Three commands—destruction of Ai:

1. Lie in wait near the city and behind it and be ready.

2. Rise up from ambush and seize the city (Jos. 8:7).

3. When you have taken the city, set it on fire as God has commanded (Jos. 8:8).

And I, and all the people that are with me, will approach unto the city: and it shall come to pass, when they come out against us, as at the first, that we will flee before them, Jos. 8:5

come to pass... The strategy for the capture of Ai was ingenious. It involved placing an ambush behind (west of) the city. God Himself had told Joshua to do this (Jos. 8:2, 8:8).

(For they will come out after us) till we have drawn them from the city; for they will say, They flee before us, as at the first: therefore we will flee before them. Jos. 8:6

drawn them from... The outworking of this plan involved three contingents of soldiers. The first was a group of valiant warriors who were sent by night to hide just west of the city of Ai. Their assignment was to rush into the city and burn it after its defenders had deserted it to pursue Joshua and his army.

Then ye shall rise up from the ambush, and seize upon the city: for the LORD your God will deliver it into your hand. Jos. 8:7

for the LORD... Joshua repeated what God had told him in Jos. 8:1-2, proving his faith in God’s word.

And it shall be, when ye have taken the city, that ye shall set the city on fire: according to the commandment of the LORD shall ye do. See, I have commanded you. Jos. 8:8

ye have taken... The commandment to set the city on fire throws further light on the destruction of Jericho. Evidently, Jericho was also burned, for Jos. 8:2 says Israel should do to Ai and her king what they did to Jericho and her king.

Joshua therefore sent them forth: and they went to lie in ambush, and abode between Bethel and Ai, on the west side of Ai: but Joshua lodged that night among the people. Jos. 8:9

sent them forth... This was the place of Abraham’s second altar after entering Canaan some 470 years before (Gen. 12:7-8). Joshua built an altar in the same vicinity (Jos. 8:30-35).

but Joshua lodged... Joshua stayed with the main body of the army, 35,000 having departed to lie in ambush behind the city (Jos. 8:3-4, 8:12).

And Joshua rose up early in the morning, and numbered the people, and went up, he and the elders of Israel, before the people to Ai. Jos. 8:10

and numbered the... Inspected or mustered the army ready to march and fight as planned (Jos. 8:3-8).

elders of Israel... The elders of Israel included the heads of the tribes and others chosen for the general council of the nation. They are first mentioned in Exo. 3:16-18 and were prominent in all the events of Israel under Moses, being referred to 42 times in the Pentateuch (Exo. 3:16-18; 4:29; 12:21; 17:5-6; 18:12; 19:7; 21:1-14; Lev. 4:15; 9:1; Num. 11:16-30; 16:25; 22:4-7; Deut. 5:23; 19:12; 21:2-20; 22:15-18; 25:7-9; 27:1; 29:10; 21:9,28; 32:7); 8 times under Joshua (Jos. 7:6; 8:10, 8:33; 9:11; 20:4; 23:2; 24:1, 24:31); only 3 times under the judges, showing the disorganized state of Israel at that time (Jdg. 2:7; 1Sa. 4:3; 8:4); under the kings 35 times (1Sa. 15:30; 30:26; 2Sa. 3:17; 5:3; 17:4, 17:15; 19:11; 1Ki. 8:1-3; 20:7-8; 21:8-11; 2Ki. 6:32; 23:1; 1Ch. 11:3; 15:25; 21:16; 2Ch. 5:2-4; Psm. 107:32; Jer. 26:17; 29:1; Lam. 1:19; 2:10; 4:16; 5:12-14; Eze. 8:1; 14:1; 20:1-3; Joel 1:14; 2:16); and in the gospel period 41 times (Mat. 15:2; 16:21; 21:23; 26:3-59; 27:1-41; 28:12; Mar. 7:3-5; 8:31; 11:27; 14:43, 14:53; 15:1; Luke 7:3; 9:22; 20:1; 22:52, 22:66; Act. 4:5, 4:8, 4:23; 22:5; 23:14; 25:15). Act. 14:23 regarding elders of the church, In the early church elders were the ministers and deacons, or preaching elders and business elders of the local churches.

And all the people, even the people of war that were with him, went up, and drew nigh, and came before the city, and pitched on the north side of Ai: now there was a valley between them and Ai. Jos. 8:11

people of war... No doubt this entire force included many thousands of soldiers. Led by Joshua, this army was a diversionary force to decoy the defenders of Ai out of the city.

now there was... The second contingent was the main army which walked the 15 miles from Gilgal late the night before and camped in plain view on the north side of Ai.

And he took about five thousand men, and set them to lie in ambush between Bethel and Ai, on the west side of the city. Jos. 8:12

he took about... This was in addition to the 30,000 of Jos_8:3. The two groups could both have been on the west side of the city, the 30,000 having gone ahead of the main army and the 5,000 being sent later to take part in the ambush and capture of Ai. The whole army came into the valley before the city and stayed there the previous night (Jos. 8:11, 8:13-14). They could not have stayed in Gilgal until the morning of the attack for that would have meant a march of 4 to 6 hours to reach Ai, and the king came out against Israel early in the morning (Jos. 8:13-14).

lie in ambush... The third contingent was another ambush numbering 5,000 men who were positioned between Bethel and Ai to cut off the possibility of reinforcements from Bethel aiding the men of Ai. Joshua was in the valley north of Ai, a deep ravine in the hills.

And when they had set the people, even all the host that was on the north of the city, and their liers in wait on the west of the city, Joshua went that night into the midst of the valley. Jos. 8:13

Joshua went that... Joshua was in the valley north of Ai, a deep ravine in the hills.

And it came to pass, when the king of Ai saw it, that they hasted and rose up early, and the men of the city went out against Israel to battle, he and all his people, at a time appointed, before the plain; but he wist not that there were liers in ambush against him behind the city. Jos. 8:14

came to pass... The plan worked to perfection. When the king of Ai saw Israel’s army he took the bait.

And Joshua and all Israel made as if they were beaten before them, and fled by the way of the wilderness. And all the people that were in Ai were called together to pursue after them: and they pursued after Joshua, and were drawn away from the city. Jos. 8:15, 16

and all Israel... "All Israel" here must be understood in a limited sense, for 35,000 were in other places (Jos. 8:3, 8:12), and some stayed in Gilgal to protect the camp from attack. This helps us to understand "all the people" in Jos. 8:1.

made as if... Ai pursuing the Israelites who pretended defeat, the city of Ai was left unguarded.

And there was not a man left in Ai or Bethel, that went not out after Israel: and they left the city open, and pursued after Israel. Jos. 8:17

there was not... This was very foolish, but perhaps such battle plans were unknown to the Canaanites. It would have been wiser to leave the city protected and closed.

And the LORD said unto Joshua, Stretch out the spear that is in thy hand toward Ai; for I will give it into thine hand. And Joshua stretched out the spear that he had in his hand toward the city. Jos. 8:18

And the LORD... The 9th prophecy in Joshua (Jos. 8:18, fulfilled, Jos. 8:20-26). Next, Jos. 10:8.

Stretch out the... This was the sign for those in ambush to attack the city (Jos. 8:18-19).

And the ambush arose quickly out of their place, and they ran as soon as he had stretched out his hand: and they entered into the city, and took it, and hasted and set the city on fire. Jos. 8:19

the ambush arose... At Joshua’s signal the other troops quickly entered and set the city on fire.

And when the men of Ai looked behind them, they saw, and, behold, the smoke of the city ascended up to heaven, and they had no power to flee this way or that way: and the people that fled to the wilderness turned back upon the pursuers. Jos. 8:20

men of Ai... The consternation of the men of Ai was complete as they witnessed the billows of flame and smoke rising into the sky. Before they could gather their wits they were caught in a pincer movement of Israelite soldiers and were destroyed.

And when Joshua and all Israel saw that the ambush had taken the city, and that the smoke of the city ascended, then they turned again, and slew the men of Ai. Jos. 8:21

and all Israel... "All Israel" here refers to those following Joshua, not those capturing Ai, or those in the camp at Gilgal, or on the other side of Jordan (Jos. 8:3, 8:12, 8:21-22; 4:13).

And the other issued out of the city against them; so they were in the midst of Israel, some on this side, and some on that side: and they smote them, so that they let none of them remain or escape. Jos. 8:22

so they were... By this strategy not one man of Israel was lost. None of Ai and Bethel escaped, and 12,000 were killed (Jos. 8:22-26).

And the king of Ai they took alive, and brought him to Joshua. Jos. 8:23

And the king... It would have been interesting to see this defeated and proud king brought before Joshua, the humble and rugged servant of God, who was in every way a king himself.

And it came to pass, when Israel had made an end of slaying all the inhabitants of Ai in the field, in the wilderness wherein they chased them, and when they were all fallen on the edge of the sword, until they were consumed, that all the Israelites returned unto Ai, and smote it with the edge of the sword. Jos. 8:24

in the field... The Canaanites on the battlefield were destroyed first, then those in the city, and finally the city was burned (Jos. 8:24-25, 8:28-29).

And so it was, that all that fell that day, both of men and women, were twelve thousand, even all the men of Ai. Jos. 8:25

all that fell... Nothing is said of the children. According to the law, male children and women who were not virgins were killed, while female children and virgin women were spared as servants and wives for the Israelites (Num. 31:17-18; Deut. 21:10-14).

For Joshua drew not his hand back, wherewith he stretched out the spear, until he had utterly destroyed all the inhabitants of Ai. Jos. 8:26

until he had... This was literally fulfilled (Deut. 7:2; 12:2; 20:17).

Only the cattle and the spoil of that city Israel took for a prey unto themselves, according unto the word of the LORD which he commanded Joshua. Jos. 8:27

Only the cattle... For this law see Num. 31:22-54.

word of the... Joshua gave this command in Jos. 8:2.

And Joshua burnt Ai, and made it an heap for ever, even a desolation unto this day. Jos. 8:28

burnt Ai] Just why some cities were destroyed and others spared is not clear unless some were more notorious for idolatry and immorality, and God wanted to make them monuments of His wrath on such sins. Ordinarily, both cities and spoil were to be saved for Israel so that no new cities would have to be built (Deut. 6:10-11; 19:1).

And the king of Ai he hanged on a tree until eventide: and as soon as the sun was down, Joshua commanded that they should take his carcase down from the tree, and cast it at the entering of the gate of the city, and raise thereon a great heap of stones, that remaineth unto this day. Jos. 8:29

king of Ai... Hanging was one method of capital punishment under the law (Deut. 21:22-23; Gal. 3:13). The Septuagint says "double tree," which could either have been a forked tree or an actual gallows. Either way, the body was removed at sundown (cp. Eph. 4:26).

Eleven Examples of Hanging

1. Pharaoh’s baker (Gen. 40:19-23)

2. Heads of rebellion in Israel (Num. 25:4)

3. King of Ai (Jos. 8:29)

4. Ahithophel (2Sa. 17:23)

5. Sons of Saul (2Sa. 21:6-13)

6. Bigthan and Teresh (Est. 2:21-23)

7. Haman and sons (Est. 7:9-10; 8:7; 9:13-25)

8. Judas Iscariot (Mat. 27:5)

9. Christ (Mat. 23:39-43; Act. 5:30; 10:39; Gal. 3:13; 1Pe. 2:24)

10. Two malefactors (Luke 23:39; cp. the hanging of others even after they were dead, Jos. 10:26; 2Sa. 4:12; 2Sa. 21:12-13)

11. Two thieves (Mat. 27:38)

heap of stones... It was customary to heap up stones as crude monuments of important events (Jos. 7:26; 8:28-29; Gen. 31:46-52; Deut. 13:16; 2Sa. 18:17-18). It was also customary for travelers to continue throwing stones on such heaps for criminals. Jews and Muslims for instance, were in the habit of casting stones upon Absalom’s tomb which he set up for himself in the king’s valley (2Sa. 18:18).

Joshua Renews the Covenant

Then Joshua built an altar unto the LORD God of Israel in mount Ebal, Jos. 8:30

built an altar... The solemn and significant religious ceremonies at this location involved three things. First, an altar of uncut stones was erected on Mount Ebal and sacrifices (consisting of burnt offerings and fellowship offerings; cf. Lev. 1:1-17; 3:1-17) were offered to the Lord. Jericho and Ai, in which false gods of the Canaanites were worshiped, had fallen. Israel now publicly worshiped and proclaimed her faith in the one true God.

As Moses the servant of the LORD commanded the children of Israel, as it is written in the book of the law of Moses, an altar of whole stones, over which no man hath lift up any iron: and they offered thereon burnt offerings unto the LORD, and sacrificed peace offerings. Jos. 8:31

As Moses the... After the victory of Ai Joshua did a strange and militarily foolish thing. Instead of securing the central sector of the land with further victories he led the Israelites on a spiritual pilgrimage. Why? Simply because Moses… had commanded it (Deut. 27:1-8).

Without delay Joshua led the men, women, children, and cattle from their camp at Gilgal northward up the Jordan Valley to the place specified, the mountains of Ebal (Jos. 8:30) and Gerizim (Jos. 8:33) which are at Shechem. The march of about 30 miles was not difficult or dangerous since they passed through a sparsely populated area. But how did the Israelites avoid a confrontation with the men of the city of Shechem, a fortress which guarded the entrance to the valley between the mountains?

The Bible does not record every battle of the Conquest and the record of the capture of Shechem may have been omitted. Or the city at that time may have been in friendly hands or it may simply have surrendered without resistance. But why was this location chosen? These mountains are located in the geographic center of the land and from either peak much of the Promised Land can be seen. Here then, in a place that represented all the land, both at the time of entrance into Canaan and also when his leadership was ending (cf. Jos. 24:1), Joshua challenged the people to renew their covenant vows to the Lord.

And he wrote there upon the stones a copy of the law of Moses, which he wrote in the presence of the children of Israel. Jos. 8:32

And he wrote... Second, Joshua set up some large stones. On their surfaces he wrote a copy of the Law of Moses. How much of the Law was inscribed is not stated. Some suggest only the Ten Commandments were written, while others think the stone inscription included the contents of at least Deuteronomy 5-26. Archaeologists have discovered similar inscribed pillars or stelae six to eight feet long in the Middle East. And the Behistun Inscription in Iran is three times the length of Deuteronomy.

And all Israel, and their elders, and officers, and their judges, stood on this side the ark and on that side before the priests the Levites, which bare the ark of the covenant of the LORD, as well the stranger, as he that was born among them; half of them over against mount Gerizim, and half of them over against mount Ebal; as Moses the servant of the LORD had commanded before, that they should bless the people of Israel. Jos. 8:33

And all Israel... These mountains were only about 30 miles from Gilgal and 20 miles from Ai, but through hostile country (Deut. 11:29). Nevertheless, Joshua fulfilled Deut. 27:2, 27:4-14 as soon as possible, demonstrating his zeal to perform religious duties in the face of pressing affairs of conquest and dangers from surrounding enemies. Soon after this the Gibeonites surrendered (Jos. 9:1-27) and all of Israel was in the hands of Israel (Jos. 10:1-11:24).

And afterward he read all the words of the law, the blessings and cursings, according to all that is written in the book of the law. Jos. 8:34

And afterward he... After blessing Israel, Joshua read all the words of the law to them—both the blessings and the curses.

in the book... This proves that the Pentateuch was originally written as one book, not five.

There was not a word of all that Moses commanded, which Joshua read not before all the congregation of Israel, with the women, and the little ones, and the strangers that were conversant among them. Jos. 8:35

There was not... Every word of the book of the law of Moses was read to Israel at this time.

the little ones... This is a good example to parents who think that small children do not understand long sermons or Scripture readings. Children understand more than parents think they do. Due to their simplicity of faith and not being influenced by various interpretations previously heard, they often understand better and retain more of the truth than some of the adults.

Daniel's Time of the End

Daniel's Time of the End

Daniel 12:12 "Blessed [is] he that waiteth, and cometh to the thousand three hundred and five and thirty days."

Blessed is he... Blessing is pronounced on one who waits for and lives to see the end of the 1,335 days. This is an additional 45 days beyond the 1,290 days (Dan. 12:11). Forty-five days after the end of the Tribulation Israel’s long-awaited blessings will be realized. This may mark the blessing of the Millennium; or it may be when Christ, who will have appeared in the heavens (Mat. 24:30) 45 days earlier, will actually descend to the earth, His feet touching down on the Mount of Olives (cf. Act. 1:11). For believers Christ’s coming is a blessing and a glorious hope.

The Christians are the blessed.

This is in the kingdom (2:35, 45; 7:13-14, and 27) that gives blessedness after the subjugation to Gentile empires in chapters 2, 7 and 8.

Forty five more days, even beyond the 1290 days, allows for transition between Israel’s time of being shattered (v.7) and God’s setting up of His kingdom. (7:13-14, and 27)

Romans 5:9 "Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him."

We are not saved from tribulation, we are saved from wrath.

My Sheep Hear My Voice

My Sheep Hear My Voice

Before Jesus was crucified He told the disciples to watch and pray, something so simple, but they let their physical bodies take over and they fell back asleep. In these last hours of time you need to hear His voice. When He tells you something, it is very important, but most ignore my voice or just discuss it and go on with what they were doing. You will see many things start to happen shortly and if you do not hear and obey His voice,... it will mean death for some of you....Jesus has only your best interest in mind. Christ knows you heart, and if you are truly His you will hear His voice. He awakes many of you at 3am on the dot, but most will roll over and go back to sleep. There are a few who will get up and pray. Your day is filled with so many things and Jesus is the last thing many of you give your time to. But Christ needs to talk to you,... to fellowship with you and only when you are still and quite (3am) can you hear Him,... the rest of your day is so busy you do not have time for Him,... but you need to make time, for time is short and the Lord has instructions for you.

Revelation Chapter 10

This passage (Rev. 10:1-11:13) is the fourth parenthetical passage in the book and explains certain things which are not the contents of the trumpets or vials, but which are fulfilled in conjunction with them, as is clear from the passage itself. Chapter 10:1-11 is a vision of the “mighty angel,” chapter 11:1-2 a vision of the temple and the Holy City, and 11:3-13 a vision of the two witnesses. This fourth parenthetical passage breaks the main vision of the trumpets and is inserted between the sixth and seventh trumpets just as the first parenthetical passage is inserted between the sixth and the seventh seals. This alone is proof that it is parenthetical. As to the fulfillment of the events of this passage that is clear, chapter 10:1-11, like the first part (Rev. 7:1-8) of the first parenthetical passage, will be fulfilled in the order in which it is given. The last part of this parenthetical passage (Rev. 11:1-13) concerning the two witnesses, will be fulfilled from the middle of the Week onward like the last part of the first parenthetical passage (Rev. 7:9-17), as is clear from both passages. Thus, the parenthetical passages are inserted in their proper places and will be fulfilled in the order as given, except for a few passages, which are always clear as to their time of fulfillment. It is only natural to understand that they are to be fulfilled in the order of events in which they are inserted unless it is stated otherwise.

The Angel and the Little Scroll

"And when the seven thunders had uttered their voices, I was about to write: and I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Seal up those things which the seven thunders uttered, and write them not" (Rev. 10:4).

Seal up those... What the 7 thunders uttered is a mystery for it is not revealed (cp. Deut. 29:29).

It seems that John was attempting to write down everything as he saw it as instructed by our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. This little book is not for the world to see. That is why Jesus spoke in parables. Only the believers in the Lord Jesus Christ are supposed to understand what is in the Book, and then only through the guidance of the Holy Spirit and Bible study. This message then from these voices is not for the world in general. Jesus, or God the Father, stops John from revealing these things by telling him not to write this down.
Thundering voices must come either from God or something very near Him. The voices that sound like seven thunders are a unique feature in the book of Revelation. John is prepared to write down what these thunder like voices say when he hears another voice telling him to "seal up and not write down what he heard".
This is the only proclamation in the entire book of Revelation that is sealed up. As for the seventh angel, the mystery of God should be finished.
Both Daniel and John were instructed to seal up much of what they saw, reserving the interpretation for the generation to whom it would be obvious: "I was about to write; and I heard a voice from heaven saying, "seal up the things which the seven peals of thunder have spoken, and do not write them." And then,"But as for you, Daniel, conceal these words and seal up the book until the end of time; many will go back and forth, and knowledge will increase."

It should be apparent to even the most casual of readers that this is the generation in which knowledge has increased to the level necessary to understand the differences between symbols and substance. This is the generation in which many will experience John's eyewitness testimony, to their everlasting regret! This is the Generation of End Times.