Conquests in Northern Canaan

Conquests in Northern Canaan

And it came to pass, when Jabin king of Hazor had heard those things, that he sent to Jobab king of Madon, and to the king of Shimron, and to the king of Achshaph, Jos. 11:1

it came to pass... Is found 430 times in Scripture. It is prominent in the historical sections, being used only 45 times in 17 prophetic books. "It shall come to pass" is a prophetic term found 123 times. It is used in prophetic sections of the historical books and appears 75 times in 17 prophetic books.

when Jabin... Jabin (a common name of the kings of Hazor) was the leader in organizing the northern confederacy of Canaan against Israel (Jos. 11:1-5).

king of Hazor... Head of the kingdoms of Canaan (Jos. 10:10), was perhaps located near the lake of Merom (Jos. 11:1, 11:10-13; 12:19; 15:23-25; 19:36). Hazor was destroyed by Joshua (Jos. 10:11), but was rebuilt. It then defeated Israel, but was defeated again by Deborah and Barak (Judges 4-5). It was in the Naphtali portion (Jos. 19:36), was a fortified city of Solomon (1Ki. 9:15), and was later taken by Assyria (2Ki. 15:29). This was not the Hazor in Judah (Jos. 15:23-25), the one in Benjamin (Neh. 11:33), or the one in Arabia (Jer. 49:28, 49:33).

had heard those... This could refer to the defeat of Jericho, Ai, and all the southern kings of Israel and include the wonders of God in Egypt, the miraculous things of the wilderness wanderings, the defeat of Sihon and Og on the east of Jordan, and the miracle of crossing the Jordan. All these things were well known to the inhabitants of Canaan (Jos. 2:9-10; 5:1; 9:9-10; 10:1-2).

sent to Jobab... Five men named Jobab:

1. A son of Joktan (Gen. 10:29; 1Ch. 1:23)

2. A king of Edom (Gen. 36:33-34; 1Ch. 1:44-45)

3. A king of Madan (Jos. 11:1)

4. A Benjamite (1Ch. 8:9)

5. A Benjamite (1Ch. 8:18)

king of Madon... Madon, a Canaanite city of unknown location (Jos. 12:19).

king of Shimron... Shimron, a Canaanite city of unknown location given to Zebulun (Jos. 19:15). Also the name of a son of Issachar (Gen. 46:13; Num. 26:24) and called Shimrom (1Ch. 7:1).

king of Achshaph... Achshaph, a city of Canaanites of unknown location (Jos. 12:20; 19:25).

And to the kings that were on the north of the mountains, and of the plains south of Chinneroth, and in the valley, and in the borders of Dor on the west, Jos. 11:2

south of Chinneroth... Chinneroth was afterward called the Lake of Gennesaret (Mat. 14:34; Mar. 6:53; Luke 5:1), the Sea of Tiberias (John 6:1, 6:23; 21:1), and more commonly the Sea of Galilee (Mat. 4:18; 15:29; Mar. 1:16; 7:31; John 6:1).

borders of Dor... Dor, a town and district in north Canaan taken by Joshua (Jos. 12:23; 17:11; Jdg. 1:27; 1Ki. 4:11).

And to the Canaanite on the east and on the west, and to the Amorite, and the Hittite, and the Perizzite, and the Jebusite in the mountains, and to the Hivite under Hermon in the land of Mizpeh. Jos. 11:3

Canaanite on the... Note the nations left to Joshua after his southern victories.

Land of Mizpeh... A land (Jos. 11:3) and valley (Jos. 11:8) in north Canaan, not the Mizpeh of Gilead (Jos. 13:26; Jdg_. 1:29); not the one in Judah (Jos. 15:38); or the one in Moab (1Sa. 22:3).

And they went out, they and all their hosts with them, much people, even as the sand that is upon the sea shore in multitude, with horses and chariots very many. Jos. 11:4

And they went... The Fifteen-fold Sum of the New Confederacy

1. Jabin, king of Hazor (Jos. 11:1)

2. Jobab, king of Madan

3. The king of Shimron

4. The king of Achshaph

5. The kings north of the mountains

6. The kings of the plains south of Chinneroth (Sea of Galilee, Jos. 11:2)

7. The kings in the valley

8. The kings on the border of Dor on the west

9. The kings of the Canaanites on the east and west (Jos. 11:3)

10. The kings of the Amorites

11. The kings of the Hittites

12. The kings of the Perizzites

13. The kings of the Jebusites in the mountains

14. The kings of the Hivites under Hermon in the land of Mizpeh

15. All their hosts were as the sand of the sea for multitude, with horses and many chariots (Jos. 11:4).

even as the... Josephus says that the allied armies numbered 300,000 footmen, 10,000 horsemen, and 20,000 chariots which would indicate at least 30,000 horses. Canaanites are said to have armed their chariots with scythes fastened to poles and wheels which made terrible havoc of infantry as they were furiously driven through their ranks. The Israelites had only infantry and would have been defeated if God had not helped them.

with horses and... Horses and chariots are mentioned a number of times before this (Exo. 14:9, 14:23; Deut. 11:4; 20:1).

And when all these kings were met together, they came and pitched together at the waters of Merom, to fight against Israel. Jos. 11:5

waters of Merom... The "waters of Merom" refers to a lake about 3 miles wide and 4 miles long, in the southern end of the large basin lying between the mountain ranges of Lebanon and Anti-Lebanon. Josephus knew this lake as Lake Semechonitis, and today it is called Lake Huleh or Hula. It is fed by numerous springs and fountains, the largest being the Jordan which flows into it from the north and exits in the southern part about 10 miles north of the Sea of Galilee.

And the LORD said unto Joshua, Be not afraid because of them: for to morrow about this time will I deliver them up all slain before Israel: thou shalt hough their horses, and burn their chariots with fire. Jos. 11:6

And the LORD... The 12th prophecy in Joshua (Jos. 11:6, fulfilled in Jos. 11:7-9). Next, Jos. 13:6. Two predictions of God:

1. Tomorrow about this same time I will deliver them up slain before Israel.

2. You shall hamstring their horses and burn their chariots with fire.

shalt hough their... Cut the hamstring or large sinew at the back of the hind leg.

So Joshua came, and all the people of war with him, against them by the waters of Merom suddenly; and they fell upon them. Jos. 11:7

waters of Merom... Joshua’s victories were brought about by what could be called ancient "blitzkriegs" (Jos. 10:9).

And the LORD delivered them into the hand of Israel, who smote them, and chased them unto great Zidon, and unto Misrephothmaim, and unto the valley of Mizpeh eastward; and they smote them, until they left them none remaining. Jos. 11:8

the Lord delivered... In what way the Lord delivered is not stated, but having done it many times before by many means, it was surely by some supernatural work through angels, confusion, or panic.

chased them unto... Chased them:

1. To Zidon northwestward on the Mediterranean Sea (Jos. 19:28)

2. To Misrephoth-maim westward

3. To the valley of Mizpeh eastward

unto great Zidon... Zidon, a city located between the Lebanon mountains and the Mediterranean (Jos. 19:28; Gen. 49:13; Jdg. 1:31; 10:6; 18:28; 2Sa. 24:6; 1Ki. 17:9; 1Ch. 1:13; Ezr. 3:7). It was a maritime center (Isa. 23:2-12; Jer. 25:22; 27:3; 47:4; Eze. 27:8; 28:21-22; Joel 3:4; Zec. 9:2). It is called "Sidon" in the N.T. (Mat. 11:21-22; 15:21; Mar. 3:8; 7:24, 7:31; Luke 4:26; 6:17; 10:13-14; Act. 12:20; 27:3). See Sidonians (Deut. 3:9; Jos. 13:4, 13:6; Jdg. 3:3; 1Ki. 5:6). Sidon was also a man’s name (1Ch. 1:13).

and unto Misrephoth-maim... It means burnings of waters (Jos. 13:6). So called because of salt pits, glass works, or hot springs.

And Joshua did unto them as the LORD bade him: he houghed their horses, and burnt their chariots with fire. Jos. 11:9

he houghed their... But why did God command such drastic action, burning the chariots and hamstringing the horses? Because the Canaanites used horses in their pagan worship (and so later did Judah; cf. 2Ki. 23:11). Also there was danger that Israel might trust in these new weapons of war rather than in the Lord. The Psalmist David declared, “Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God” (Psm. 20:7).

And Joshua at that time turned back, and took Hazor, and smote the king thereof with the sword: for Hazor beforetime was the head of all those kingdoms. Jos. 11:10

at that time... In the second phase of the conflict in northern Canaan Joshua returned after routing the enemy army and captured all the cities of the defeated kings. Hazor, however, was singled out for special treatment, probably because it was by far the largest city of ancient Canaan (200 acres in size, compared with Megiddo at 14 and Jericho at 8).

And they smote all the souls that were therein with the edge of the sword, utterly destroying them: there was not any left to breathe: and he burnt Hazor with fire. And all the cities of those kings, and all the kings of them, did Joshua take, and smote them with the edge of the sword, and he utterly destroyed them, as Moses the servant of the LORD commanded. Jos. 11:11, 12

burnt Hazor with... Alone among the northern cities was both seized and burned.

But as for the cities that stood still in their strength, Israel burned none of them, save Hazor only; that did Joshua burn. Jos. 11:13

cities that stood... Though Joshua may have decided to save the other captured cities for later Israelite use, he determined to make an example of Hazor, capital of all these kingdoms (city states) and the convener of their armies.

And all the spoil of these cities, and the cattle, the children of Israel took for a prey unto themselves; but every man they smote with the edge of the sword, until they had destroyed them, neither left they any to breathe. Jos. 11:14

all the spoil... The gold, silver, household goods, corn, wine, oil, or any mercantile goods, together with cattle of every sort. All were taken by them for a prey, for their own use and benefit, which was allowed them.

"But every man they smote with the edge of the sword, until they had destroyed them, neither left they any to breathe": For which they had warrant so to do from the Lord, as follows.
In many cases, they had killed all of the livestock as well. In this particular case, they had kept the livestock and spoiled the city just killing all of the people.

As the LORD commanded Moses his servant, so did Moses command Joshua, and so did Joshua; he left nothing undone of all that the LORD commanded Moses. Jos. 11:15

the Lord commanded... Thus a decisive victory was won in the north. And the key was obedience to God. Joshua… left nothing undone of all that the Lord commanded Moses.

he left nothing... Joshua’s faithfulness to the Lord’s will and Moses’ directions is constantly underscored (compare verses 12, 20, 23). Joshua’s own farewell testimony emphasizes the faithfulness and goodness of God (compare 23:15).

We see from this that Joshua was doing exactly as he had been commanded by Moses to do. God had given these commands to Moses before he gave them to Joshua.
Deuteronomy 4:2 "Ye shall not add unto the word which I command you, neither shall ye diminish [ought] from it, that ye may keep the commandments of the LORD your God which I command you."
Deuteronomy 7:2 "And when the LORD thy God shall deliver them before thee; thou shalt smite them, [and] utterly destroy them; thou shalt make no covenant with them, nor show mercy unto them:"

So Joshua took all that land, the hills, and all the south country, and all the land of Goshen, and the valley, and the plain, and the mountain of Israel, and the valley of the same; Jos. 11:16

So Joshua took... The Tenfold Summary of Conquests

1. Joshua took all that land.

2. The hills

3. All the south country

4. All the land of Goshen

5. The valley of the plain

6. The mountain of Israel

7. The valley of the same

8. From Mount Halak to Seir (Jos. 11:17)

9. Unto Baal-gad in the valley of Lebanon under Mount Hermon

10. He killed all the kings whom he took.

the hills... The hill country of Judea (Jos. 10:40).

the south country... The Negeb, the south country (Jos. 10:40; 12:8; 15:3).

land of Goshen... An unknown district of south Canaan in Judah which was distinct from the hill country, the Negeb, and the Shephelah (Jos. 10:41; 11:16) and in which the town of Goshen was located (Jos. 15:51).

and the valley... The low country of Canaan or the many valleys of the land.

and the plain... This may refer to one plain well known to the writer in that day, or to the many plains in the land (Jos. 3:16; 8:14; 12:1, 12:3; Gen. 13:10-18; 14:13; 19:17-29; Deut. 3:10-17; 4:43-49; 34:3).

and the mountain... What particular mountain is not clear. It may be all the mountains and their valleys.

Even from the mount Halak, that goeth up to Seir, even unto Baalgad in the valley of Lebanon under mount Hermon: and all their kings he took, and smote them, and slew them. Jos. 11:17

from the mount... This was the limit of Israel’s conquest on the south to the northern limits near Mount Hermon (Jos. 12:7-8).

Joshua made war a long time with all those kings. Jos. 11:18

a long time... Many days, about 5 years, for Caleb was 40 when the 12 spies were sent into Canaan before the 40 years of wandering, and he was 85 at the end of these wars (Jos. 14:10-15).

There was not a city that made peace with the children of Israel, save the Hivites the inhabitants of Gibeon: all other they took in battle. Jos. 11:19

was not a... Yet in all the military confrontations only one city, Gibeon, sought peace.

all other they... The rest were taken in battle, God having hardened their hearts (cf. Exo. 4:21; and Exo. 8:15) to fight Israel so that they might be destroyed.

For it was of the LORD to harden their hearts, that they should come against Israel in battle, that he might destroy them utterly, and that they might have no favour, but that he might destroy them, as the LORD commanded Moses. Jos. 11:20

For it was... It was as necessary to destroy them for sin (Lev. 18:24-28) and because of the giant races and the satanic effort to do away with pure Adamite stock through whom the Seed of the woman should come, as it was to destroy the inhabitants of the earth at the time of Noah’s flood. See Gen. 6:1-4.

And at that time came Joshua, and cut off the Anakims from the mountains, from Hebron, from Debir, from Anab, and from all the mountains of Judah, and from all the mountains of Israel: Joshua destroyed them utterly with their cities. Jos. 11:21

cut off the... These were the giants that filled the land, descendants of the sons of God and the daughters of men. See Giants and the Sons of God.

from the mountains... The fact that several places all over Canaan are mentioned here indicates that the giants were scattered far and wide instead of dwelling in only one part of the land. The fact that Joshua annihilated them and their cities, and did not destroy all the cities of ordinary men (Jos. 11:13; 10:39) proves that the giants were dealt with more severely than the others. Some of the giants were left only in Gaza, Gath, and Ashdod (Jos. 11:22).

There was none of the Anakims left in the land of the children of Israel: only in Gaza, in Gath, and in Ashdod, there remained. Jos. 11:22

there was none... But under Joshua those supposedly invincible foes were utterly destroyed. Only a few remained, in the remote cities of Gaza, Gath, and Ashdod — which later proved to be an unfortunate oversight on Joshua’s part because in David’s time Goliath came from Gath to defy Israel and her God (1Sa. 17:1-58).

So Joshua took the whole land, according to all that the LORD said unto Moses; and Joshua gave it for an inheritance unto Israel according to their divisions by their tribes. And the land rested from war. Jos. 11:23

took the whole... This was after a war lasting for five years.

the Lord said... The section concludes with a declaration that summarizes the Book of Joshua as a whole. So Joshua took the entire land (cf. Jos. 11:16). This looks back and condenses the history of the Conquest in chapters 1-11. And he gave it as an inheritance to Israel according to their tribal divisions. These words look forward and summarize the distribution of the land in chapters 13-22.

But how is the statement, “Joshua took the entire land,” to be understood when later it was written that “there are still very large areas of land to be taken over”? (Jos. 13:1) To the Hebrew mind the part stands for the whole. It thus only needs to be demonstrated that Joshua took key centers in all parts of the land to validate the statement that he had conquered the whole land.

Then the land had rest from war.

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 voice which I heard from heaven spake unto me again, and said, Go [and] take the little book which is open in the hand of the angel which standeth upon the sea and upon the earth" (Rev. 10:8).
take the little book... The "Little Book" of Rev. 5:1-14 and Rev. 10:1-11.

1. The language in Rev. 5:1-14 and Rev. 10:1-11 proves it to be the same book.

2. The announcement that Christ has prevailed to open the book (Rev. 5:5), proves that it was to be opened and its contents revealed.

3. The seals that bound the little book were broken by Christ in Rev. 6:1-8:1. The book is now open so that the things written within can be revealed (Rev. 10:8-11).

4. If the little book of Rev. 10:1-11 is not the same as the one in Rev. 5:1-14, then the revelation is not complete, for the things written within have never otherwise been revealed.

5. If the little book of Rev. 5:1-14 was so all-important that no one but Christ could open it or look upon it, surely He would not have revealed the contents of the seals only, leaving the things written within unrevealed.

6. Rev. 10:11 is the key to the contents of the book and proves it to be a revelation concerning judgments upon many nations, thus confirming the fact that the things written within are the same in nature as the seals binding the book. Hence, the book in Rev. 5:1-14 and Rev. 10:1-11 must be the same.

7. The effect of eating the book is sufficient proof that the things written in it pertain to terrible events (Rev. 10:9-10), similar to those of the 7 seals binding the book in Rev. 5:1-14. The effect upon John was the same as that upon Ezekiel and Jeremiah further proving it was one of judgments (Eze. 2:3-3:14; Jer. 15:16; 20:7-9).

8. The book is not one of redemption or of title deeds to the earth, for no such books are revealed in Scripture. This would contradict the purpose of Revelation which reveals judgments in all of Rev. 6:1-17:19.

of the angel... This coming of Christ to stand upon the earth and sea does not prove His formal possession of the earth at this time. This will not take place until 3 1/2 years later (Rev. 19:11-21; Dan. 7:13-14; Zec. 14:1-21).

which standeth upon... This is the third reference to the location of the angel (Christ) who stands on the sea and earth. (Verses 2, 5 and 8). This emphasizes strongly the authority he has.

The Sun Stands Still

The Sun Stands Still

Now it came to pass, when Adonizedek king of Jerusalem had heard how Joshua had taken Ai, and had utterly destroyed it; as he had done to Jericho and her king, so he had done to Ai and her king; and how the inhabitants of Gibeon had made peace with Israel, and were among them; Jos. 10:1

came to pass... This is the first time the word "king" is found in Scripture in connection with Jerusalem, but it is used 86 times with other cities, before this. Once in the N.T., Melchizedek is called "king of Salem," which was the ancient name of Jerusalem (Heb. 7:1-3; Gen. 14:18; Psm. 76:2). The word Adonizedek (Jos. 10:1) means "lord of righteousness"; it is equivalent to "king of righteousness," used of Melchizedek. These were the official names of the kings of Jerusalem.

king of Jerusalem... This is also the first time that Jerusalem is mentioned in Scripture. It means city of peace, or foundation of peace. It is one of the ironies of history that the city with such a name has seen so little peace, and that for its possession rivers of blood have been shed. It was originally also called "Jebus" (Jdg. 19:10-11; 1Ch. 4:5; 2Sa. 5:6-9), the old name of "Jerus." It is called "Jebusi" (Jdg. 18:16, 18:28); "Ariel" (Isa. 29:1); "the city of righteousness" (Isa. 1:26); and "holy city" (Isa. 48:2; 52:1; Neh. 11:1). David captured the city from the Jebusites and made it the capital of united Israel (2Sa. 5:6-9). It remained the capital until the division of the kingdom about 1,000 B.C. Jerusalem then continued to be the capital of Judah until 606 B.C. when it was destroyed by Nebuchadnezzar. It became the capital of Israel again about 546 B.C. and remained so until the nation and city were destroyed by the Romans in 70 A.D. Jerusalem has undergone no less than 28 sieges from Joshua’s time to the present, 10 sieges beginning from Joshua to Nebuchadnezzar (Jdg. 1:8; 2Sa. 5:6-10; 1Ki. 14:25; 2 Ki. 18:13-19:37; 2Ch. 21:16-17; 28:5-15; 36:1-2). In the period between the close of the O.T. to 70 A.D. it was besieged 10 times. Since then it has been besieged 8 times to 1917 A.D., 9 times if we consider the recent war between the Jews and Arabs (1967). Jerusalem has a future as the capital of Israel and of the Antichrist (Eze. 37:1-28; Dan. 9:27-11:40-45; 2Th. 2:3-4; Rev. 11:1-11), and as the eternal capital in the reign of Jesus Christ (Isa. 2:1-22; Eze. 48:1-35; Joel 3:1-21; Amos 9:9-15; Oba. 1:15-21; Mic. 4:1-13; Zec. 14:1-21).

heard how Joshua... The king of Jerusalem had heard of three things:

1. The destruction of Jericho

2. The destruction of Ai

3. The surrender of Gibeon

That they feared greatly, because Gibeon was a great city, as one of the royal cities, and because it was greater than Ai, and all the men thereof were mighty. Jos. 10:2

The handwriting was on the wall. Jerusalem’s security was being severely threatened. If the advances of Israel’s armies continued without challenge Jerusalem would soon be surrounded and captured.

Wherefore Adonizedek king of Jerusalem sent unto Hoham king of Hebron, and unto Piram king of Jarmuth, and unto Japhia king of Lachish, and unto Debir king of Eglon, saying, Jos. 10:3

sent unto... So the king of Jerusalem sent an urgent message to four other kings of southern Canaan stressing the fact that Gibeon had made peace with Israel, a traitorous and punishable act.

Come up unto me, and help me, that we may smite Gibeon: for it hath made peace with Joshua and with the children of Israel. Jos. 10:4

Come up unto... This might pave the way for other cities to surrender in like manner. It was a signal for war. Immediate action had to be taken against Gibeon.

Therefore the five kings of the Amorites, the king of Jerusalem, the king of Hebron, the king of Jarmuth, the king of Lachish, the king of Eglon, gathered themselves together, and went up, they and all their hosts, and encamped before Gibeon, and made war against it. Jos. 10:5

five kings of... This was a mistake, for they needed to save themselves to fight Israel; but it gave Joshua the occasion for his next move (Jos. 10:5-15).

And the men of Gibeon sent unto Joshua to the camp to Gilgal, saying, Slack not thy hand from thy servants; come up to us quickly, and save us, and help us: for all the kings of the Amorites that dwell in the mountains are gathered together against us. Jos. 10:6

And the men... Faced with certain slaughter, the Gibeonites sent a runner to Joshua in… Gilgal with an insistent appeal for help against the overwhelming force that pressed on them.

Appeal for help... But why should Joshua respond to this cry for help from the very people who had deceived him? Why not just sit back and let the Canaanites fight among themselves? The Israelites would then be rid of evidence of an embarrassing failure.

So Joshua ascended from Gilgal, he, and all the people of war with him, and all the mighty men of valour. Jos. 10:7

So Joshua ascended... Joshua inquired of the Lord before making this move, as is clear from the fact that God answered him in Jos. 10:8. Joshua had learned the hard way to seek God in all things (cp. Jos. 10:14).

And the LORD said unto Joshua, Fear them not: for I have delivered them into thine hand; there shall not a man of them stand before thee. Jos. 10:8

the LORD said... The 10th prophecy in Joshua (Jos. 10:8, fulfilled in Jos. 10:10-42). Next, Jos. 10:25. Two predictions to Joshua:

1. I have delivered them into your hands.

2. No man shall be able to stand before you.

Joshua therefore came unto them suddenly, and went up from Gilgal all night. Jos. 10:9

unto them suddenly... After an all-night march, Joshua suddenly attacked the five kings of south Israel and the Lord gave Israel complete victory which put them in possession of all this part of Canaan (Jos. 10:8-14).

And the LORD discomfited them before Israel, and slew them with a great slaughter at Gibeon, and chased them along the way that goeth up to Bethhoron, and smote them to Azekah, and unto Makkedah. Jos. 10:10

Lord discomfited them... Two things that God did in this battle:

1. God confused the enemy, enabling Israel to get a speedy victory.

2. God cast down great hailstones from heaven so that more died from the miraculous hail than from the sword of Israel (Jos. 10:11).

And it came to pass, as they fled from before Israel, and were in the going down to Bethhoron, that the LORD cast down great stones from heaven upon them unto Azekah, and they died: they were more which died with hailstones than they whom the children of Israel slew with the sword. Jos. 10:11

died with hailstones... Hailstones of unusual size have been recorded throughout history. On the Upper Rhine, in 1492, one fell which weighed 260 lbs. In 1510 near Padua, Italy about 1,200 stones fell, some weighing 120 lbs. In 1762 near Verona there were some weighing 200 to 300 lbs. Two miraculous hailstorms of history:

1. Upon Egypt (Exo. 9:18-10:15; Psm. 78:47)

2. In this battle (Jos. 10:11)

they were more... Four miraculous hailstorms of prophecy:

1. During the first trumpet (Rev. 8:7)

2. During the seventh trumpet (Rev. 12:1-17:19)

3. During the seventh vial (Rev. 16:17-21)

4. During Armageddon (Eze. 38:17-22)

Then spake Joshua to the LORD in the day when the LORD delivered up the Amorites before the children of Israel, and he said in the sight of Israel, Sun, stand thou still upon Gibeon; and thou, Moon, in the valley of Ajalon. Jos. 10:12

and he said... The first time that man commanded the solar system to stand still, and it obeyed (Jos. 10:12-13). Later, God listened to Hezekiah and turned the solar system backward ten degrees (2Ki. 20:9-11; Isa. 38:8).

stand thou still... Hebrew: damam, from damah, to be dumb; be silent; stop; cease; hold peace; quiet self; rest; stand still; tarry; wait. The sun and moon stopped influencing the earth which in turn stopped revolving.

Valley of Ajalon... Ajalon was a city in a valley of the same name, between Jerusalem and Ekron (2Ch. 28:18; compare a town in Zebulon by that name, Jos. 19:42). It was over the valley that Joshua saw the moon rising as the sun was setting over Gibeon. He commanded both to stay where they were, and God listened to him (Jos. 10:14).

And the sun stood still, and the moon stayed, until the people had avenged themselves upon their enemies. Is not this written in the book of Jasher? So the sun stood still in the midst of heaven, and hasted not to go down about a whole day. Jos. 10:13

And the sun... Eight Scientific and Biblical Facts

1. This was a genuine miracle. The sun and moon either stopped their influences on the earth, or stood still (see Jos. 10:12).

2. It is not the only miracle involving the sun:

(1) Historically: The earth was totally dark for an indefinite period (Gen. 1:2); there was darkness in Egypt for three full days (Exo. 10:21-23); the shadow of the sun went back ten degrees on the sun dial of Ahaz (2Ki. 20:11; Isa. 38:8); the sun went down at noon and the earth was darkened when Israel fell to Babylon (Amos 8:9); and there was darkness for three hours when Christ was crucified (Luke 23:44-45).

(2) Prophetically: The sun will be darkened in the sixth seal (Rev. 6:12-17), the fourth trumpet (Rev. 8:12), the fifth trumpet (Rev. 9:2), the fifth vial (Rev. 16:10), and at the second advent of Christ and Armageddon (Isa. 13:10; Eze. 32:7; Joel 2:10, 2:31; 3:15; Mat. 24:29-31).

3. The rising and setting of the sun is man’s expression for the earth turning on its axis so that only part of it is toward the sun at a given time. The earth’s rotation makes it appear that the sun is actually moving around this globe. The sun does travel through the heavens, making its own prescribed circuit, as do all stars and planets.

4. It is in God’s power to stop the movements of all or part of the solar system, if He sees fit to do so to further His purpose. As the Sovereign Creator of the laws of nature, He may suspend those laws anytime or anywhere He pleases.

5. It is believed that the command for the sun to stand still was given about the time of its setting for several reasons:

(1) The sun was over Gibeon at the time (Jos. 10:12). Looking back from the east where Joshua and his men were pursuing, it could be seen setting in the sky over Gibeon.

(2) The moon was coming up over the valley of Ajalon (Jos. 10:12) and could not have been seen with the naked eye in the afternoon sun.

(3) The statement that the sun "hasted not to go about a whole day" indicates that it was setting at the time the command was given (Jos. 10:13).

(4) If it had been in the middle of the day, Joshua would not have known whether he and his people could avenge themselves before the day was over because he would have had six hours or more left in which to fight.

6. Joshua spoke to the sun and moon, not the earth, for they are the influences causing tides and seasons and day and night and must influence the rotation of the earth (Gen. 1:14-18).

7. The earth’s rotation could suddenly stop without noticeable change for its inhabitants other than the appearance of the heavens, so what is recorded in Jos. 10:12-14 could have happened without being disastrous to the earth and its peoples.

8. Greece, Egypt, China, and Mexico have records of a long day (or night) corresponding to the time of Joshua. By counting the equinoxes, eclipses, and transits backward from our day to his, and counting them from the prime date of creation (re-creation) on to Joshua’s time, a whole day is missing. Mathematically, such a conclusion is unavoidable.

the moon stayed... Hebrew: ‛amad, to stand; abide; cease; remain; be still; tarry; be firm (Jos. 10:13; Deut. 10:10; 1Sa. 20:19; 30:9; 2Ki. 4:6).

until the people... Until—a whole day more of fighting (Jos. 10:13-14). This was a miracle in itself: God strengthened the army of Joshua, for they fought three whole days and one night:

1. The day that news came to Joshua (Jos. 10:6)

2. The night of the march (Jos. 10:9)

3. The day of the battle (Jos. 10:10-11)

4. The extra day of the battle when the sun did not go down (Jos. 10:12-14)

Is not this... Question 14. Next, Jos. 15:18.

book of Jasher... This is variously translated in different versions: The book of Jasher, of the Just, of the Pious, of the Upright, of the Songs, of Heroes, of the Righteous, and in the true Records. It is not mentioned in the Septuagint. The book of Jasher is referred to twice in Scripture—here and in 2Sa. 1:18. It is said to be a collection of triumphal odes composed by different men to celebrate their notable victories, or by one man (Jasher) who wrote of such victories.

And there was no day like that before it or after it, that the LORD hearkened unto the voice of a man: for the LORD fought for Israel. Jos. 10:14

no day like... There was, however, a day when the sun turned backward ten degrees (2Ki. 20:9-11).

And Joshua returned, and all Israel with him, unto the camp to Gilgal. Jos. 10:15

And Joshua returned... This verse, which is exactly like Jos. 10:43, is omitted in the Septuagint. Either a copyist accidently duplicated Jos. 10:43 and then continued with Jos. 10:16, or Jos. 10:15 should refer to Makkedah (as in Jos. 10:21) where Joshua set up a temporary camp while the work of Jos. 10:16-42 was carried on, after which he returned to Gilgal.

Five Amorite Kings Executed

But these five kings fled, and hid themselves in a cave at Makkedah. And it was told Joshua, saying, The five kings are found hid in a cave at Makkedah. And Joshua said, Roll great stones upon the mouth of the cave, and set men by it for to keep them: Jos. 10:16, 17, 18

are found hid... Set men by it to keep them in the cave.

And stay ye not, but pursue after your enemies, and smite the hindmost of them; suffer them not to enter into their cities: for the LORD your God hath delivered them into your hand. Jos. 10:19

stay ye not... they pursued the Amorite soldiers, killing all but a few who escaped to their fortified cities.

And it came to pass, when Joshua and the children of Israel had made an end of slaying them with a very great slaughter, till they were consumed, that the rest which remained of them entered into fenced cities. Jos. 10:20

till they were... Until all they could catch were destroyed. The remnant entered walled cities to tell the story.

And all the people returned to the camp to Joshua at Makkedah in peace: none moved his tongue against any of the children of Israel. Jos. 10:21

all the people... This should help explain Jos. 10:15 where it is said that Joshua and all Israel returned to the camp at Gilgal, which perhaps should be Makkedah, as here.

none moved his... This expression, found in similar form in Exo. 11:7, means that the events happened so fast and were so divinely executed that all knew that God was supernaturally fighting for Israel. Therefore, they feared both Israel and God. With great hailstones falling from heaven to destroy thousands, the sun and moon standing still a whole day, and so many other strange things happening, Israel’s enemies did not know what to expect next.

Then said Joshua, Open the mouth of the cave, and bring out those five kings unto me out of the cave. Jos. 10:22

Open the mouth of the cave, and bring out those five kings unto me out of the cave.] Seven commands—conquest of Canaan:

1. Sun, stand still over Gibeon; and moon in the valley of Ajalon (Jos. 10:12).

2. Roll great stones upon the mouth of the cave, and set men by it to keep them (Jos. 10:18).

3. Do not stay, but pursue your enemies and kill them (Jos. 10:19).

4. Do not let them enter the cities.

5. Open the mouth of the cave, and bring the five kings out to me (Jos. 10:22).

6. Put your feet on their necks (Jos. 10:24).

7. Fear not, nor be dismayed; be strong and of good courage (Jos. 10:25).

And they did so, and brought forth those five kings unto him out of the cave, the king of Jerusalem, the king of Hebron, the king of Jarmuth, the king of Lachish, and the king of Eglon. Jos. 10:23

and brought forth... In the battle of Ai only one king was captured and brought before Joshua (Jos. 8:23, 8:29). Now five were brought to him. He hung the first, but killed these and hung them on trees until evening (Jos. 10:23-27). Counting the one at Jericho this made seven kings destroyed so far (Jos. 8:23, 8:29; 10:1, 10:23-27; 12:9-12).

And it came to pass, when they brought out those kings unto Joshua, that Joshua called for all the men of Israel, and said unto the captains of the men of war which went with him, Come near, put your feet upon the necks of these kings. And they came near, and put their feet upon the necks of them. Jos. 10:24

Come near... This was done to encourage Israel to believe that all their enemies would likewise be destroyed (Jos. 10:24-25).

And Joshua said unto them, Fear not, nor be dismayed, be strong and of good courage: for thus shall the LORD do to all your enemies against whom ye fight. Jos. 10:25

And Joshua said... The 11th prophecy in Joshua (Jos. 10:25, fulfilled, Jos. 12:1-24). Next, Jos. 11:6.

And afterward Joshua smote them, and slew them, and hanged them on five trees: and they were hanging upon the trees until the evening. Jos. 10:26

until the evening... and they were hanging upon the trees.

And it came to pass at the time of the going down of the sun, that Joshua commanded, and they took them down off the trees, and cast them into the cave wherein they had been hid, and laid great stones in the cave's mouth, which remain until this very day. Jos. 10:27

and cast them... Then they were thrown into the cave which was blocked by great rocks, as had been done earlier (Jos. 10:18). These rocks became another memorial of Israel’s victorious march through Canaan.

And that day Joshua took Makkedah, and smote it with the edge of the sword, and the king thereof he utterly destroyed, them, and all the souls that were therein; he let none remain: and he did to the king of Makkedah as he did unto the king of Jericho. Jos. 10:28

And that day... Makkedah became Judah’s in the division of Canaan. It was about 14 miles southwest of Jerusalem (Jos. 10:10, 10:16-17, 10:21, 10:28-29; 12:16; 15:41). The place was not very prominent, being mentioned only in these scriptures.

he utterly destroyed... See Deut. 7:2; 12:2; 20:17.

Conquest of Southern Canaan

Then Joshua passed from Makkedah, and all Israel with him, unto Libnah, and fought against Libnah: Jos. 10:29

Joshua passed from... Libnah became the possession of Judah. It was but a village as late as the fourth century of the Christian era; its ruins have since disappeared (Jos. 10:29-39; 12:15; 15:42). It was one of the cities given to the priests (Jos. 21:13; 1Ch. 6:57). In the reign of Joram its inhabitants joined the Edomites in a revolt against Judah (2Ki. 8:22; 2Ch. 21:10). It was besieged by Sennacherib in Hezekiah’s reign (2Ki. 19:8; Isa. 37:8). The daughter of Jeremiah of Libnah was the wife of Josiah and the mother of Jehoahaz and Zedekiah (2Ki. 23:31; 24:18; Jer. 52:1). Libnah was about 10 miles southeast of Lachish. There was another Libnah in the wilderness between Rimmon-perez and Rissah (Num. 33:20-21), which was probably the Laban of Deut. 1:1.

And the LORD delivered it also, and the king thereof, into the hand of Israel; and he smote it with the edge of the sword, and all the souls that were therein; he let none remain in it; but did unto the king thereof as he did unto the king of Jericho. Jos. 10:30

delivered it also... "Also" proves the Lord had given them victory at Makkedah of Jos. 10:9.

And Joshua passed from Libnah, and all Israel with him, unto Lachish, and encamped against it, and fought against it: Jos. 10:31

Fifteen Cities Taken in the First Campaign

1. Jericho (Jos. 6:1-27)

2. Ai (Jos. 8:1-35)

3. Gibeon (Jos. 9:1-27)

4. Chephirah (Jos. 9:17)

5. Beeroth (Jos. 9:17)

6. Kirjath-jearim (Jos. 9:17)

7. Makkedah (Jos. 10:28)

8. Libnah (Jos. 9:1-27:29-30)

9. Lachish (Jos. 9:1-27:31-32)

10. Gezer (Jos. 10:33)

11. Eglon (Jos. 10:34-35)

12. Hebron (Jos. 10:36-37)

13. Debir (Jos. 10:38-39)

14. Kadesh-barnea (Jos. 10:40-41)

15. Gaza and all the surrounding country (Jos. 10:40-43)

And the LORD delivered Lachish into the hand of Israel, which took it on the second day, and smote it with the edge of the sword, and all the souls that were therein, according to all that he had done to Libnah. Jos. 10:32

the second day... The second day after they laid siege to it. It was not so easily conquered by the Assyrians (2Ki. 18:17; 19:8; 2Ch. 32:9) or the Babylonians (Jer. 34:7).

Then Horam king of Gezer came up to help Lachish; and Joshua smote him and his people, until he had left him none remaining. Jos. 10:33

Then Horam... Mentioned only here.

king of Gezer... Supposedly located near Azotus in Philistia, was formerly under the suzerainty of Egypt (1Ch. 20:4). It was taken by Joshua (Jos. 10:33; 12:12) and given to the Levites (Jos. 21:21; 1Ch. 6:67; 7:28). Gezer did not remain conquered (Jdg. 1:29); it warred against David with the Philistines (1Ch. 20:4); then it was taken by Egypt in Solomon’s reign (1Ki. 9:15-17). There was another Gezer in Ephraim (Jos. 16:3).

And from Lachish Joshua passed unto Eglon, and all Israel with him; and they encamped against it, and fought against it: Jos. 10:34

passed unto Eglon... Was not far from Lachish in south Israel. It was taken by Joshua (Jos. 10:3, 10:5, 10:23, 10:34-37; 12:12) and given to Judah (Jos. 15:2, 15:39).

And they took it on that day, and smote it with the edge of the sword, and all the souls that were therein he utterly destroyed that day, according to all that he had done to Lachish. Jos. 10:35

he utterly destroyed... See Deut. 7:2; 12:2; 20:17.

And Joshua went up from Eglon, and all Israel with him, unto Hebron; and they fought against it: Jos. 10:36

Joshua went up... Hebron was about 38 miles south of Jerusalem, in the Judah portion of the land (Jos. 10:3-5, 10:23, 10:36-39; 12:10; 14:13-15). One of the most ancient and important cities of southern Israel, it was said to have been founded before Zoan in Egypt (Num. 13:22). Its ancient name was Kirjath-arba (Jdg. 1:10), and it was called Arba for the father of Anak who founded one of the mighty races of giants (Jos. 14:12; 15:14). Abram dwelled here for many years after coming into Canaan (Gen. 13:18), and from here he rescued Lot (Gen. 14:1-24). Here is where his name was changed to Abraham (Gen. 17:5), where God and two angels came to visit him, and where Isaac was finally announced (Gen. 18:1-33). Hebron is where Sarah died (Gen. 23:1-20), Isaac and Jacob spent most of their lives (Gen. 35:27; 37:14), and the patriarchs were buried (Gen. 49:30; 50:13). Jacob and his family went to Egypt from here (Gen. 46:1), and the spies got their grapes near here (Num. 13:22). Hebron became one of the Levite cities (Jos. 21:10) and a city of refuge (Jos. 20:7). David was received with kindness at this place; later he was anointed king and reigned over seven years here (1Sa. 30:31; 2Sa. 5:3-5). It is where six of his sons were born (2Sa. 3:2), where Abner was slain (2Sa. 3:27), and Absalom rebelled (2Sa. 15:7). The city was fortified by Rehoboam (2Ch. 11:10). Jews from the captivity settled here (Neh. 11:25). The Maccabees recovered it from Edom in the period after the close of the O.T. (1 Macc. 5:65). The Romans burned it in their war against the Jews in 70 A.D. Because of its history, it was respected by the Crusaders, and has retained importance during the Muslim period because of its past relationship with Abraham. There were two men in Scripture called "Hebron"—a Levite (Exo. 6:18; Num. 3:19, 3:27; 1Ch. 6:2, 6:18; 23:12, 23:19) and a descendant of Caleb (1Ch. 2:42-43).

And they took it, and smote it with the edge of the sword, and the king thereof, and all the cities thereof, and all the souls that were therein; he left none remaining, according to all that he had done to Eglon; but destroyed it utterly, and all the souls that were therein. Jos. 10:37

the king thereof... Joshua had killed the king of Hebron, one of the five kings whom he hung on trees (Jos. 10:3, 10:17-26). Here his successor was also destroyed.

And Joshua returned, and all Israel with him, to Debir; and fought against it: Jos. 10:38

And Joshua returned... Returned to Debir (changed direction) toward the south to conquer it.

to... Debir was about 7 miles south of Hebron. It was conquered by Joshua near the end of his southern campaign (Jos. 10:3, 10:38-39; 11:21; 12:13; 13:26). In Jos. 15:15-17; Jdg. 1:11-13 we have the account of Othniel capturing Debir and winning a wife. It is called Kirjath-sannah (Jos. 15:49), which is perhaps a corruption of Kirjath-sepher of Jos. 15:15-16; Jdg. 1:11-12. It was one time a city of giants, of the Anakim tribe (Jos. 11:21). Debir became a Levitical city (Jos. 21:15; 1Ch. 6:58). It must have been a sacred city of the pagans, as its name would indicate, for the Hebrew: debiyr is used in 1Ki. 6:5 to denote the holy of holies (oracle). There were two other towns called Debir—one between Judah and Benhamin (Jos. 15:7), which must have been east of Jerusalem on the Jericho road, and one on the border of Gad near Mahanaim (Jos. 13:26) which may be the Lodebar of 1Sa. 9:4.

And he took it, and the king thereof, and all the cities thereof; and they smote them with the edge of the sword, and utterly destroyed all the souls that were therein; he left none remaining: as he had done to Hebron, so he did to Debir, and to the king thereof; as he had done also to Libnah, and to her king. Jos. 10:39

all the cities... All the cities round about Debir, Hebron, and Libnah.

So Joshua smote all the country of the hills, and of the south, and of the vale, and of the springs, and all their kings: he left none remaining, but utterly destroyed all that breathed, as the LORD God of Israel commanded. Jos. 10:40

So Joshua smote... Summary of Joshua’s southern campaign:

1. All the hills—the hill country of Judea (Luke 1:39, 1:65)

2. All of the south

3. All of the vale

4. All of the springs

5. All of their kings

all that breathed... That is, all who resisted and were captured and destined to destruction; not all who fled the country, for many escaped and were spared (Num. 31:17-18; Deut. 21:10).

And Joshua smote them from Kadeshbarnea even unto Gaza, and all the country of Goshen, even unto Gibeon. Jos. 10:41

Joshua smote them... This verse describes Joshua’s conquests south to Kadesh-barnea, west to Gaza near the Mediterranean in Philistia, and north to Gibeon. The Goshen mentioned here was not in Egypt, but in Israel. There was a city of this name, and the surrounding country was called the land of Goshen.

And all these kings and their land did Joshua take at one time, because the LORD God of Israel fought for Israel. Jos. 10:42

at one time... Joshua took all the kings of all these places—south, west, and north—in one campaign (Jos. 10:41-42).

And Joshua returned, and all Israel with him, unto the camp to Gilgal. Jos. 10:43

And Joshua returned... Joshua returned to Gilgal, which he had left to help the Gibeonites, as in Jos. 10:1-7 (Jos. 10:43; cp. 10:15).

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

"But in the days of the voice of the seventh angel, when he shall begin to sound, the mystery of God should be finished, as he hath declared to his servants the prophets" (Rev. 10:7).

the mystery of... This refers to the casting out of Satan:

1. It is to be finished during the days of the 7th trumpet (Rev. 10:7).

2. It has long been delayed (Rev. 10:6-7).

3. It will be no longer delayed (Rev. 10:7).

4. The casting out of Satan has been predicted since Adam’s day (Rev. 10:7; 12:7-12; Gen. 3:15; Isa. 24:21; 25:7; 27:1).

5. It is one of the 3 woes announced by the angel in Rev. 8:13; 12:12.

6. The casting out of Satan is the only event of the 7th trumpet that is necessary before the kingdoms of this world can become those of God and Christ, as announced in Rev. 11:15. It is the only event that fulfills the details above.

“The mystery”: A Greek term meaning “to shut” or “to close”. In the new Testament, a “mystery” is a truth that God concealed but has revealed through Christ and His apostles (Rom. 16:25). Here the mystery is the final consummation of all things as God destroys sinners and establishes His righteous kingdom on earth.
This is when Jesus reveals Himself to the Christians in heaven. The Bible says that when we get to heaven, we will recognize Him, because we will be like Him.
1 John 3:2 "Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is."
You see this is a mystery to us now. When it is revealed, it will be so simple that we will think, "Why didn't I think of that?" It is not for us to know this right now.
This seventh trumpet means this is the opening to the final judgments. Throughout the New Testament, God spoke in parables so the world would not understand. Just those to whom Jesus would reveal Himself would understand.

“As he hath declared”: This mystery, though not fully revealed, was declared to God’s prophets (compare Amos 3:7).