Joshua - Chapter-9
Chapter Summary
The league with the Gibeonites.
Discussion Questions for Joshua, Chapter 9
- The Hivites said that they had heard reports about God (v.9) and they later spoke of the command that God gave to Moses (v.24). What does this say about the reputation of the Israelite God? Does God have the same reputation in modern day? Explain your answer. Be sure to use specific examples and, where possible, personal experiences.
- Do you think Joshua did the right thing by upholding the oath? Why or why not?
- The Israelite congregation took issue with Joshua's decision to keep the oath. How did they express their grievances? Was it biblical? How are we supposed to disagree within the church?
- The Hivites lied about who they were to Joshua but were still spared. Why do you think that Joshua decided to spare them, despite the false pretences of the Hivites? What does that say about Joshua's own fear of God?
- Why do you think the Israelites did not inquire of the Lord in verse 14? Do you think things would have been different if they had? Why or why not? Use specific biblical accounts to back up your answers.
- Do you think it would have been just for Joshua to kill the Hivites?
- Since the Hivites were in the land that was supposed to be given to the Israelites, was God's plan changed by the Israelites actions? Why or why not?
- How do the Israelite leaders show their character when they refuse to kill the Hivites? What can we learn from their actions?
- In verse 27, there is the phrase "And that is what they are to this day." (NIV) This echoes phrases throughout the beginning of Joshua that put these accounts in a certain time and place. Why was this important for the biblical writers to do? How does it benefit us today?
- The woodcutters and water carriers provided for the "needs of the altar of the Lord at the place the Lord would choose." (NIV) What does this mean? Were the Hivites now serving the God of Israel?
Key Words/Phrase
League, v. 15.
Characters
God, Joshua, ambassadors of the Gibeonites.
Strong Verse(s)
14, 25.
