Joshua Chapter 15
There are many city names in this chapter that are difficult for us to pronounce, but these are important places in Biblical history. As Caleb hears the boundaries of the land that is designated for the tribe of Judah, we realize that this is the land from which our Messiah would be born. This is the land from which our Messiah will reign. I encourage you to look at a map included in the back of your Bible that shows the division of the land to the twelve tribes. Take special notice of how big the land of Judah is and how it extends from side to the other.
Take special note of verse 12 to discover the west boundary of the tribe of Judah’s allotment. The promised land was much bigger and greater than the small slip of land that Israel now occupies.
Let's Reflect
1. In verse 13 we find that Caleb was given a portion of the land for his inheritance within the boundaries of the land of Judah. What land did Caleb receive?
2. Caleb at age 85 drove out the inhabitants of that portion of land. We know that from the previous chapter some of them were giants. Caleb offered a challenge to some of the younger men. What was the challenge and what was the reward?
3. What special blessing did Caleb give to his offspring because she requested it?
4. As you look at all the names of the cities keep in mind that it happened as God said it would – they gained cities and homes for themselves that they did not build. Finally, the people of Israel had homes. There is a town mentioned in verse 47 that should jump off the page. What town is mentioned as now belonging to Israel?
5. The chapter ends with a very important fact about the city of Jerusalem. What does the Bible say about Jerusalem?
