Overview:

Joshua 17 describes the land allotment for the other half of the tribe of Manasseh, the descendants of Joseph, which was divided between Ephraim and Manasseh. This chapter highlights the distribution of land on the west side of the Jordan for Manasseh, including the inheritance granted to the daughters of Zelophehad, who received their father’s portion in accordance with Moses’ command. The chapter concludes with the tribe of Manasseh expressing dissatisfaction with their allotted land and asking for more territory due to their size and perceived strength. Joshua’s response emphasizes their responsibility to make full use of the land they have been given and to clear forested hill country for additional space. Key themes in Joshua 17 include God’s provision, fairness in inheritance, the importance of resourcefulness, and the responsibility to fully utilize God’s blessings.

Historical and Literary Context:

Joshua 17 continues the distribution of land among the tribes, focusing on Manasseh’s territory west of the Jordan River. The land distribution highlights two significant points: the inclusion of the daughters of Zelophehad, which is a unique example of inheritance for women in ancient Israel, and the importance of fully utilizing what God has provided. Manasseh’s dissatisfaction and Joshua’s response point to a common theme of trusting God’s provision while taking personal responsibility to maximize blessings. This chapter also reflects the transition from conquest to settlement, where each tribe is called to establish itself within its allotted territory.

Key Themes and Doctrinal Points:

God’s Provision and Fairness in Inheritance:

The distribution of land among the tribes, including the allocation for the daughters of Zelophehad, underscores God’s provision and His commitment to justice. Each tribe, and even individuals within the tribes, receive an inheritance according to God’s promises and commands.

For Christians, this theme reflects God’s impartiality and generosity in providing for all His people. Galatians 3:28 reminds believers that “there is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female,” encouraging them to view all believers as equally valued in God’s kingdom.

The Importance of Resourcefulness and Responsibility:

Joshua’s encouragement to Manasseh to clear the forested hill country rather than asking for more land emphasizes the responsibility to make full use of what God has provided. This challenge is a call to be resourceful, demonstrating diligence and gratitude in using God’s blessings.

For Christians, this theme highlights the importance of wise stewardship. 1 Peter 4:10 exhorts believers to “use whatever gift you have received to serve others,” reminding them to maximize their talents and resources for God’s glory.

The Dangers of Discontentment:

Manasseh’s dissatisfaction with their land and desire for additional territory reflects a lack of contentment with God’s provision. This tendency to seek more rather than appreciate what has been given can lead to a lack of faith and reliance on God.

For Christians, this theme serves as a warning against discontentment. Philippians 4:11-12 teaches believers to “be content whatever the circumstances,” encouraging them to trust in God’s sufficiency rather than striving for more.

Verse-by-Verse Analysis:

Joshua 17:1-2:

“This was the allotment for the tribe of Manasseh as Joseph’s firstborn, that is, for Makir, Manasseh’s firstborn. Makir was the ancestor of the Gileadites, who had received Gilead and Bashan because the Makirites were great soldiers. So this allotment was for the rest of the people of Manasseh—the clans of Abiezer, Helek, Asriel, Shechem, Hepher, and Shemida. These are the other male descendants of Manasseh son of Joseph by their clans.”

The tribe of Manasseh receives their inheritance, with portions going to both the descendants of Makir and the rest of the tribe. This distribution reflects the recognition of Manasseh’s strength as warriors and the importance of heritage and family clans.

For Christians, this passage highlights the importance of honoring God’s provision and respecting one’s spiritual heritage. 1 Timothy 5:8 teaches that caring for one’s family is foundational to faith, encouraging believers to respect and uphold the legacy of faith within their families.

Joshua 17:3-6:

“Now Zelophehad son of Hepher, the son of Gilead, the son of Makir, the son of Manasseh, had no sons but only daughters, whose names were Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milkah and Tirzah. They went to Eleazar the priest, Joshua son of Nun, and the leaders and said, ‘The Lord commanded Moses to give us an inheritance among our relatives.’ So Joshua gave them an inheritance along with the brothers of their father, according to the Lord’s command.”

The daughters of Zelophehad are granted their father’s inheritance, fulfilling the command given by Moses. This example of inheritance for women is significant, reflecting God’s justice and provision for all who seek His promises, regardless of gender.

For Christians, this passage demonstrates God’s impartiality and His care for each individual. James 2:1 warns believers not to show favoritism, reminding them to treat all people with respect and fairness.

Joshua 17:7-10:

“The territory of Manasseh extended from Asher to Mikmethath east of Shechem. The boundary ran southward from there to include the people living at En Tappuah. (Manasseh had the land of Tappuah, but Tappuah itself, on the boundary of Manasseh, belonged to the Ephraimites.) Then the boundary continued south to the Kanah Ravine. There were towns belonging to Ephraim lying among the towns of Manasseh, but the boundary of Manasseh was the northern side of the ravine and ended at the Mediterranean Sea.”

The boundaries of Manasseh’s territory are described, highlighting shared areas with Ephraim. This division of land emphasizes the unity and interdependence within the tribes, showing that God’s provision often includes shared spaces and responsibilities.

For Christians, this passage underscores the importance of unity in God’s family. 1 Corinthians 12:12-14 teaches that believers are “one body,” reminding them to work together in unity and harmony.

Joshua 17:11-13:

“Within Issachar and Asher, Manasseh also had Beth Shan, Ibleam and the people of Dor, Endor, Taanach and Megiddo, together with their surrounding settlements—the third in the list is Naphoth. Yet the Manassites were not able to occupy these towns, for the Canaanites were determined to live in that region. However, when the Israelites grew stronger, they subjected the Canaanites to forced labor but did not drive them out completely.”

Although Manasseh grows strong, they fail to completely drive out the Canaanites, instead subjecting them to forced labor. This incomplete obedience foreshadows the spiritual risks associated with allowing idolatrous influences to remain in the land, leading to future compromises.

For Christians, this passage warns against partial obedience and the dangers of compromise. Galatians 5:9 teaches that “a little yeast leavens the whole batch,” reminding believers of the importance of complete commitment to God’s commands.

Joshua 17:14-16:

“The people of Joseph said to Joshua, ‘Why have you given us only one allotment and one portion for an inheritance? We are a numerous people and the Lord has blessed us abundantly.’ ‘If you are so numerous,’ Joshua answered, ‘and if the hill country of Ephraim is too small for you, go up into the forest and clear land for yourselves there in the land of the Perizzites and Rephaites.’ The people of Joseph replied, ‘The hill country is not enough for us, and all the Canaanites who live in the plain have chariots fitted with iron, both those in Beth Shan and its settlements and those in the Valley of Jezreel.’”

The tribe of Joseph (including Ephraim and Manasseh) expresses dissatisfaction with their allotment, asking for more land due to their large population. Joshua challenges them to clear the forested hill country to expand their territory. However, they express concern about the strength of the Canaanites with iron chariots.

For Christians, this passage reflects the importance of faith and resourcefulness in using what God has provided. Philippians 4:13 reminds believers that “I can do all things through him who gives me strength,” encouraging them to rely on God’s strength rather than seeking additional resources.

Joshua 17:17-18:

“But Joshua said to the tribes of Joseph—to Ephraim and Manasseh—‘You are numerous and very powerful. You will have not only one allotment but the forested hill country as well. Clear it, and its farthest limits will be yours; though the Canaanites have iron chariots and though they are strong, you can drive them out.’”

Joshua affirms the strength and potential of the tribes of Joseph, encouraging them to make use of the land they already have. His confidence in their ability to clear the forest and conquer the Canaanites challenges them to exercise faith and diligence.

For Christians, this passage emphasizes the value of courage and responsibility. Hebrews 10:35-36 encourages believers to “not throw away your confidence” and to “persevere,” reminding them to trust God and act in faith.

Theological Implications and Connection to Jesus Christ:

Joshua 17 demonstrates God’s fairness in inheritance, the importance of using what God provides, and the dangers of compromise. The daughters of Zelophehad’s inheritance reflects God’s justice, as He honors their request according to His command. Manasseh’s incomplete obedience, however, foreshadows Israel’s future struggles with idolatry, highlighting the need for full commitment to God’s commands. Just as Joshua challenges Manasseh to make use of the land they have, Jesus calls believers to be faithful stewards of their spiritual inheritance, trusting in God’s provision without giving in to fear or complacency.

In Jesus, believers receive an eternal inheritance that surpasses earthly boundaries. Jesus calls His followers to complete obedience and encourages them to make the most of their gifts and resources in service to His kingdom. His teachings on faithfulness and courage challenge believers to rely on God’s strength, knowing that He equips them to overcome spiritual battles and to live boldly for His glory.

Sermon Outline and Flow:

Title: “Using What God Has Given: Faithfulness, Resourcefulness, and Trust in God’s Provision”

1. Introduction
   • Introduce the themes of inheritance, resourcefulness, and obedience in Manasseh’s allotment of land.
   • Emphasize the importance of fully using what God provides and trusting in His strength rather than seeking more.
2. God’s Fairness and Provision in Inheritance (Joshua 17:1-6)
   • Discuss the allotment given to Manasseh and the daughters of Zelophehad, highlighting God’s fairness and generosity.
   • Apply this to the Christian life, where believers are called to recognize their spiritual inheritance in Christ (Galatians 3:28).
3. Dangers of Incomplete Obedience (Joshua 17:11-13)
   • Examine Manasseh’s failure to drive out the Canaanites, emphasizing the spiritual risks of compromise and partial obedience.
   • Apply this to the Christian life, where believers are warned against allowing sin to linger (Galatians 5:9).
4. Faithfulness and Resourcefulness in God’s Provision (Joshua 17:14-18)
   • Highlight Joshua’s challenge to Manasseh to clear the forested hill country, underscoring the importance of making the most of God’s gifts.
   • Apply this to the Christian life, where believers are encouraged to trust in God’s strength and to maximize their resources (Philippians 4:13).
5. Conclusion
   • Reaffirm the call to embrace God’s inheritance, to walk in complete obedience, and to use what God has provided, trusting in His provision and strength.

Illustrations and Examples:

• Personal Story: Share an example of someone who maximized their resources and trusted God’s provision, illustrating the power of faithfulness.
• Global Example: Many cultures emphasize resourcefulness and stewardship. Relate this to the spiritual responsibility of making full use of God’s gifts and opportunities.

Application for Today’s Christian:

Joshua 17 calls today’s believers to:

• Embrace God’s Inheritance with Gratitude and Responsibility: Like Manasseh, believers are called to appreciate and fully use their spiritual inheritance, relying on God’s provision.
• Pursue Complete Obedience: Manasseh’s failure to drive out the Canaanites serves as a warning against partial obedience. Believers are encouraged to remove sin and resist compromise in their faith.
• Act with Faith and Resourcefulness: Joshua’s challenge to clear the forested land emphasizes faith and resourcefulness. Believers are called to rely on God’s strength, using their talents and resources to their fullest.

Connection to the Father in Joshua 17:

God the Father’s fairness and provision are evident in Manasseh’s inheritance and the daughters of Zelophehad’s portion. His commitment to justice reflects His love and care for His people, ensuring that each receives what is due. This chapter reassures believers of God’s unwavering commitment to providing for His people, urging them to respond in gratitude and faithfulness.

Connection to Jesus Christ in Joshua 17:

Joshua 17 foreshadows the inheritance believers receive through Jesus. Just as Manasseh’s territory required diligence, Jesus challenges believers to live faithfully, making full use of their spiritual inheritance. Jesus’ victory over sin enables believers to live without compromise, ensuring they can claim God’s promises with boldness and confidence.

Connection to the Holy Spirit in Joshua 17:

The Holy Spirit empowers believers to live faithfully, providing strength to resist compromise and to pursue holiness. Just as Manasseh needed to take responsibility for their land, the Spirit equips believers to fully occupy their spiritual inheritance, guiding them in resourcefulness and faith.

Connection to God’s Love in Joshua 17:

God’s love is demonstrated through His fairness and provision for each tribe. His willingness to grant the daughters of Zelophehad an inheritance reflects His personal care for each individual. Through Christ, God’s love is fully revealed, inviting believers to experience a lasting inheritance rooted in His eternal promises.

Reflection Questions:

1. How does the inheritance given to Manasseh encourage you to view your spiritual inheritance in Christ?
2. What areas of your life require complete obedience to God’s commands?
3. How can Manasseh’s partial obedience serve as a warning against compromise in your spiritual journey?
4. In what ways can you maximize the gifts and resources God has provided?
5. How does understanding God’s love and fairness strengthen your commitment to following Him fully?