The Conquest
Teachers
Lesson Summary
The class examined Joshua’s conquest after the battle of Ai, emphasizing how God’s direct involvement shifted the outcome from defeat to victory. The teacher highlighted the covenant renewal on Mount Ebal, where the Israelites proclaimed the curses of the law as recorded in Deuteronomy 27, and contrasted this with Paul’s teaching in Galatians that righteousness comes through faith, not merely law observance. The discussion moved to Joshua 9:24, illustrating the Gibeonites’ fear and their decision to make peace with Israel, underscoring the timeless call to reconcile with God. Further, the lesson covered the dramatic southern campaign in Joshua 10, noting the miraculous hail and the sun standing still, followed by the northern offensive against King Jabin of Hazor in Joshua 11. The teacher stressed the recurring pattern of God reassuring Joshua—"Do not be afraid"—and the swift, decisive victories that followed. Archaeological notes on Mount Ebal and Hazor provided contemporary context, while the class concluded with reflections on covenant fidelity and the ongoing relevance of these conquests for modern believers.
Key Scriptures
Cursed be anyone who does not confirm the word to this law by doing them, and all the people shall say amen.
When their deception was found out, here's how they answered back to Joshua...
And the sun stood still and the moon stopped until the nation took vengeance on their enemies...