Joshua 5 | Victory, Failure, and the God Who Fights for Israel

Episode 2.79

In this episode, Michael and Zach walk through Joshua 9–12, a pivotal section of the book that contrasts Israel acting without Yahweh with Yahweh fighting for Israel.

We examine Israel’s deception by the Gibeonites in Joshua 9, where careful reasoning replaces prayer—and obedience becomes costly but necessary. From there, the narrative turns to the southern and northern campaigns (Joshua 10–11), highlighting Yahweh as the true warrior who grants victory, commands obedience, and fulfills His promises over time rather than through a quick conquest.

Along the way, we address key theological and historical questions:

• Why Israel honored a deceptive oath

• The meaning of Joshua’s long-day prayer

• Divine sovereignty and human obedience in battle

• Why “taking the land” differs from fully “possessing” it

• How Joshua’s obedience models covenant faithfulness

The episode concludes with Joshua 12’s king list, showing the scope of Yahweh’s victory and the unity of God’s people—east and west of the Jordan. The takeaway is clear: victory comes not from strategy or strength, but from dependence on the Lord who fights for His people.

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