Understanding Joshua 11:20

Bible Verse: Joshua 11:20

This verse states, "For it was the Lord's doing to harden their hearts, that they should come against Israel in battle, that He might utterly destroy them, and that they might receive no mercy, but that He might destroy them, as the Lord had commanded Moses."

Summary and Interpretation

Joshua 11:20 is a profound verse that encapsulates the sovereignty of God in the events that transpired during the conquest of Canaan. The verse addresses the divine rationale behind the hardening of the hearts of the Canaanite kings.

The Sovereignty of God

Matthew Henry emphasizes the concept of God's sovereignty, suggesting that God, in His omnipotence, orchestrated events to fulfill His divine plan. The hardening of hearts was not merely a random act; it was a deliberate action by God to bring about the destruction of those who opposed His people.

Hardening of Hearts

Albert Barnes explains that this hardening is significant in the context of judgment. God’s hardening signifies a withdrawal of His spirit from the adversaries, allowing them to act in rebellion against Israel. This divine initiative reinforces the idea that the Canaanites were not merely victims of circumstance but were actively choosing to oppose God's commands.

The Divine Purpose

Adam Clarke notes that the purpose behind this hardening was to ensure that Israel could cleanse the land of idolatry and sin. The ultimate aim was not just destruction but the preservation of a holy people dedicated to following God's law. Clarke highlights that this action fulfills earlier biblical prophecy and commands given to Moses and underscores the seriousness of sin as it pertains to the people of Canaan.

Key Themes

• Divine Judgment: The destruction of the Canaanites illustrates God's judgment against sin and idolatry.
• God’s Plan: The verse reflects the notion that God’s will is ultimately carried out, regardless of human opposition.
• Mercy and Justice: The absence of mercy in this context signifies the seriousness with which God deals with rebellion.

Application of Scripture

This verse challenges readers to consider the implications of divine sovereignty and human agency. Just as God hardened the hearts of the Canaanites, He can also work in the hearts of believers. Here are some applications:

• Reflect on the balance between divine sovereignty and human choice in one’s life.
• Consider how God’s will is revealed through the events in Scripture and how that relates to modern life.
• Seek to understand God's commands and the importance of obedience in the life of a believer.

Cross References

• Exodus 4:21: God's declaration regarding Pharaoh's heart.
• Romans 9:17: Paul discussing Pharaoh as an example of God's sovereignty.
• Psalm 105:25: Reflecting on the hardening of hearts in the narrative of the Israelites.

Conclusion

The examination of Joshua 11:20 reveals the depth of God’s control over historical events and human choices. This verse not only serves as a commentary on the actions of the Canaanite kings but also prompts profound questions about how we perceive God’s involvement in the world around us.