This is the Old Testament story of the battle of Jericho. Yes, you’ve probably heard it many times before but it’s well worth revisiting.
The time is here. Israel prepares to do battle for the land of Canaan. And, the heavily fortified city of Jericho is the first hurdle.
But, what an unorthodox way of conquering the city. And, what gave Joshua such confidence going in?
Find out in this Bible lesson about the battle of Jericho.
Battle of Jericho – Joshua Attacks
With God on their side, and the ark of the covenant before them, Israel marched around the city until the walls fell down.
See how God works as a “fortress God” and not just a “nature God“.
According to Scripture, Joshua showed no fear because he knew the fight was already won.
How?
In this Bible study, we learn that we have battles to fight as Christians.
In the Battle of Jericho Who wins? Who has lost?
Then on the seventh day they rose early at the dawning of the day and marched around the city in the same manner seven times; only on that day they marched around the city seven times.
At the seventh time, when the priests blew the trumpets, Joshua said to the people, “Shout! For the Lord has given you the city.
The city shall be under the ban, it and all that is in it belongs to the Lord; only Rahab the harlot and all who are with her in the house shall live, because she hid the messengers whom we sent.
But as for you, only keep yourselves from the things under the ban, so that you do not covet them and take some of the things under the ban, and make the camp of Israel accursed and bring trouble on it. – Joshua 6:15-18 NASB
Note: Read how Rahab hid the spies here..
Jericho is Destroyed
About the City of Jericho
- Fortified
- well protected
- indestructible?
These features defined the city of Jericho.
Built long before the birth of Joshua and his army, Jericho was one of the oldest known cities of the time.
With towering walls, in many places 25 feet high and 20 feet thick, and guards standing their posts atop of these immense walls, I might have looked at this situation and turned back.
But, Joshua didn’t.
The Key to Canaan
With the destruction of this city, Joshua knew that every other town in Canaan would hear of its demise. And, the fact that Jericho fell would instill fear in the hearts of all who faced Israel’s siege.
God was no longer a “nature God“, able to part the Jordan.
Now, He was known as a “fortress God“, who could overtake walled cities such as Jericho!
This let the people know that the God of Israel was more powerful than any of their idols they worshiped.
So now, the stage was set.
Already the Victor – The Battle of Jericho is Won…
In verse 2, God says; “See, I have given Jericho into your hand..“, letting Joshua know that the battle was already won.
If you and I knew that we couldn’t lose in a certain situation, what would that do for our confidence level?
Knowing that we could not fail, we could do anything, couldn’t we?
Our Battle – Jericho is Not the Enemy We Fight
As Christians, we are fighting a battle against a defeated enemy too. His name is Satan.
The warfare that goes on between God and Satan is temporary. And, we know God has already won.
Christ defeated him when He died on the cross and rose on the third day.
Even though it seems that Satan still has power, the war has been won. We as Christians have won. God has won.
So, there is no need to be afraid of a defeated enemy any longer.
Through the Holy Spirit, Christ gives us the power to overcome anything Satan can conjure.
Isn’t God Awesome?
Love in Christ
– Bob
If you would like more information about how to receive the love and life-changing experience of Jesus Christ, please take a moment and read John 3:16 now.