Joshua12

Joshua 9:1-15

The Gibeonite’s Deceit

1.  This chapter, like Chapter 5, opens with a description of the reputation of the Israelites amongst the Canaanites.  In Chapter 5, prior to any battles in the land east of the Jordan River, the Canaanites were so overwhelmed with fear that they were literally defenseless.  But here in Chapter 9, there has been a major change in the Canaanites attitude.  

            Compare Joshua 5:1 with 9:1-2.

2.  In Chapter 7, we discussed the significant effect Achan’s sins had upon the entire nation.  Even in light of the consecration prior the second battle at Ai, in 9:2 we see that this sin of Achan’s had an even deeper, lasting impact.

            Discuss this impact, and give some other examples in the Old Testament where God purified His people, and shortly thereafter they succumbed to their fleshly desires.

3.  Verses 9:3-13 give a detailed description of how the Gibeonites deceived the Israelites.

            a)  Describe their deception.

            b)  With such a well devised plan, it’s no wonder that the Israelites were deceived.  But the Israelites made one vital mistake.  What was it?

4.  Under American law, if a contract (a treaty or covenant is a form of contract) was created based on a deception, it would be voidable.

            a) What did God command the Israelites regarding such relationships?  (Deut 20:10-18)

            b)  Why was this agreement allowed to stand?