By Faith the Walls of Jericho Fell

Hebrews 11:30

(Refer to Joshua 1:1-6:27 for background)

1. Skim through Joshua 3:1-17. In this passage the expression "the ark of the covenant" [of the Lord] is repeated (3,6,8,11,14,17). What does the ark symbolize? 

2. Joshua 3:10 reads, "This is how you will know that the living God is among you..." Why is it important for the Israelites to "know" this?   

3. Skim through 4:1-24 and think about the meaning of the word "sign" (in verse 6) or "memorial" (in verse 7). What practical wisdom can we learn here in serving the Lord as members of His army?

4. Read Joshua 5:2 and think about the Lord's command to circumcise the Israelites before the battle. In what respect was it not easy for them to obey the command? What does "I have rolled away the reproach of Egypt from you" (in 5:9) mean?  

5. Read Joshua 5:10-12. What does this passage indicate about the life of the Israelites from “that very day" on? 

6. Read 5:13-6:5. When did the Lord reveal to Joshua the way to conquer Jericho? How did the Israelites obey the Lord? (6:6-21; Hebrews 11:30) What practical applications can we learn here in serving the Lord's command in our generation?