land. For as it came just when they needed, so it continued as long as they needed it. This teaches
us not to expect supplies by miracles, when they may be had in a common way. The word and
ordinances of God are spiritual manna, with which God nourishes his people in this wilderness.
Though often forfeited, yet they are continued while we are here; but when we come to the heavenly
Canaan, this manna will cease, for we shall no longer need it.
Verses 13–15
We read not of any appearance of God's glory to Joshua till now. There appeared to him one
as a man to be noticed. This Man was the Son of God, the eternal Word. Joshua gave him Divine
honours: he received them, which a created angel would not have done, and he is called Jehovah,
chap. 6:2. To Abraham he appeared as a traveller; to Joshua as a man of war. Christ will be to his
people what their faith needs. Christ had his sword drawn, which encouraged Joshua to carry on
the war with vigour. Christ's sword drawn in his hand, denotes how ready he is for the defence and
salvation of his people. His sword turns every way. Joshua will know whether he is a friend or a
foe. The cause between the Israelites and Canaanites, between Christ and Beelzebub, will not admit
of any man's refusing to take one part or the other, as he may do in worldly contests. Joshua's inquiry
shows an earnest desire to know the will of Christ, and a cheerful readiness and resolution to do it.
All true Christians must fight under Christ's banner, and they will conquer by his presence and
assistance.
Chapter 6
Chapter Outline
The siege of Jericho. (1–5)
The city is compassed. (6–16)
Jericho is taken, Rahab and her family are (17–27)
saved.Verses 1–5
Jericho resolves Israel shall not be its master. It shut itself up, being strongly fortified both by
art and nature. Thus were they foolish, and their hearts hardened to their destruction; the miserable
case of all that strengthen themselves against the Almighty. God resolves Israel shall be its master,
and that quickly. No warlike preparations were to be made. By the uncommon method of besieging
the city, the Lord honoured the ark, as the symbol of his presence, and showed that all the victories
were from him. The faith and patience of the people were proved and increased.
Verses 6–16