JOSHUA 8 / PSALM 46 - What about “Holy” War
What’s the Big Deal?
• The Divine Command to Joshua/Israelites to Kill the Canaanites
• In a world and country full of violence, including religious violence
• In a social culture that leaves no room for serious dialogue
• In a church culture that often suppresses questions or doubts
**We must Erase the Caricatures In order to Embrace God’s Character (Good) and Plan (Gospel)
Erase the Caricatures
I. The Caricature of Canaan and Israel
A. Canaan was an innocent, idyllic paradise
Actually was a powerful, violent empire (Gen 15:12-16)
Attacked Israel while Israel was vulnerable
B. Israel was Powerful and Aggressive
They were Oppressed and Relatively Weak
II. The Caricature of Holy War
A. Holy War is Pervasive in the Bible
The phrase “holy war” only found in Joel 3:9
Israel’s attacks were limited in scope and breadth
“Drive out” is more common than “kill off”
B. Attacked Cities were Filled with Innocent Women/Children
Most “cities” in Joshua were Military Outposts and Small
C. Thousands involved and Everyone/Everything killed
War Rhetoric and numbers often hyperbolic/exaggerated
Embrace God’s Character and Plan
1. God is Patient
2. God is Merciful
3. God is Compassionate to the Widow, Orphan, and Foreigner
4. God is Just—He addresses/eradicates Evil to Protect His Creation
5. God is Consistent—Doesn’t “change” in the New Testament
6. God is Savior—His Suffering Servant ultimately brings Life and
Victory!
Psalm 46!!!
• He is our Refuge for the Hurting and Fearful
• He is the Source of Stability and Peace
• He is the Ender of All Wars
• He is the Rest for our Souls
