Christ in the Old Testament

Joshua 21:44

The Lord gave them rest on every side, just as he had sworn to their ancestors. (NIV)

Today’s Reading: Joshua 21:43-45 and Hebrews 4:1-11

The book of Joshua is sandwiched between Deuteronomy and Judges. It records Israel’s history from Moses’ death to the period of the Judges. It’s the first of twelve historical books in the Old Testament.

We don’t see any specific prophecies or symbology in the book of Joshua pointing to Jesus. But we will spend today looking at the similarities between Joshua and Jesus because like many previous leaders of Israel, I believe Joshua is a type of Christ. Joshua the person points us to Jesus.

In contrast to Moses who failed to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land, Joshua succeeded and accomplished the task. And not necessarily to either their credit or dismay, the Jewish people were largely responsible for these outcomes. Moses was tasked with leading a rebellious and disobedient people. The Israelites lack of belief and disobedience to God prevented them from entering Canaan. However, the Israelites under Joshua’s command had great faith and obedience to God. This obedience and faith were directly tied to the numerous victories of the Israelites over their enemies.

There are a handful of similarities between Joshua and Jesus but with each one Jesus was greater:

1. The name Joshua in Hebrew means “The Lord Saves.” Jesus’ name also means “The Lord Saves” in Greek. Joshua saved Israel from wandering in the wilderness. Jesus saved all of humanity for eternity.
2. At the end of the book of Joshua, Joshua had given the Israelites rest from their enemies. “The Lord gave them rest on every side, just as he had sworn to their ancestors” (Joshua 21:44). Jesus gave us Sabbath rest where we no longer have to work to earn God’s favor.
3. Joshua gave Israel the Promised Land which Moses failed to give them. Jesus gave us salvation which the law failed to give us. (Rom 8:2-4)
4. Joshua interceded for Israel just as Moses had (Joshua 7:6-9). Jesus continually intercedes for us saving us completely as our High Priest (Heb 7:23-25).
5. The Lord fulfilled his promises to Israel through Joshua (Joshua 21:44). The Lord will fulfill His promises of eternity to us through Jesus.

Today’s Prayer: Thank you Lord for providing Joshua as an example of a godly and faithful leader. And thank you for providing Jesus as a greater Joshua who saves me from my sins.