Commentary on Joshua 1:7

Joshua 1:7 states:

"Only be thou strong and very courageous, that thou mayest observe to do according to all the law, which Moses my servant commanded thee: turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that thou mayest prosper whithersoever thou goest."

This verse is a clear directive not just for Joshua, but also for all believers who seek to remain faithful to God's commands. Here, we explore various insights from notable public domain commentaries to extract profound lessons and applications for pastors, students, theologians, and Bible scholars.

Contextual Significance

The context of Joshua 1:7 is pivotal for understanding its admonition. Moses has just died, and Joshua is appointed to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land. This transition is marked by the need for strength and courage, as he is to face numerous challenges ahead.

Matthew Henry's Insights

Matthew Henry emphasizes the importance of strength and courage, interpreting these as vital attributes for leaders in divine service. He states:

"The strength and courage promoted here are not carnal but spiritual, enabling a leader to endure trials and maintain faith."

Henry further elaborates on the necessity of adhering strictly to the law given through Moses:

• Obedience: Aligning one’s actions with God's commands is essential for divine approval and success.
• Consistency: Henry notes that deviation from God’s law, whether to the right or left, leads to spiritual peril.
• Prosperity: The promise of prosperity is linked directly to obedience, framing success as contingent upon adherence to God’s directives.

Albert Barnes' Exposition

Albert Barnes offers insights on the dynamic relationship between divine instruction and human response:

"God’s command to Joshua highlights His expectation for unwavering faithfulness to the law, which serves as the guiding principle for leadership."

Barnes presents the idea that:

• Courage in Leadership: Leaders must stand firm amid opposition, reminding us that spiritual leadership often entails facing resistance.
• Guidance of Scripture: Barnes affirms that fidelity to God’s word is the singular path to genuine success and prosperity.
• Prosperity Defined: True prosperity goes beyond material gain; it is rooted in spiritual fulfillment and right standing with God.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

Adam Clarke approaches the verse with a practical lens, emphasizing the internal and external workings necessary for success:

"This strength and courage are characterized by a resolve to act in accordance with divine law amidst the challenges of leadership."

Clarke elaborates on the dual aspects of the command Jesse receives:

• Spiritual Resilience: He points out that inner strength is crucial when confronting external adversities.
• Observance of the Law: Clarke stresses that the law provides not just boundaries but also frameworks for ethical conduct and decision-making.
• Divine Promise: The promise of prosperity serves as additional motivation, assuring that adherence to God’s commandments yields favorable outcomes.

Applications for Today

As we reflect on Joshua 1:7 through the lens of these commentaries, several applications emerge for modern believers:

• Leadership with Integrity: Both public and private leaders are called to model strength and courage in their faith.
• Faithfulness to Scripture: Contemporary followers of Christ must engage consistently with Scripture, finding in it both guidance and wisdom.
• Understanding Prosperity: The biblical understanding of prosperity transcends physical wealth, advocating for spiritual growth and alignment with God’s purpose.
• Encouragement for Trials: Like Joshua, believers are encouraged to find strength in God’s presence and promises as they face their personal challenges.

Conclusion

Joshua 1:7 is more than a historical directive; it compels believers today to embody strength and courage while adhering strictly to the commandments of God. The insights from the works of Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke converge to present a rich theological perspective on obedience, prosperity, and leadership in faith.