The Pulpit Commentary — Joshua — Section 215

Yer. 14.-The Israelites outwitted. A story that bears on its face the evidences of authenticity. A wiliness displayed quite in keeping with our notions of Oriental duplicity. Has lessons appropriate to modern days. Whilst some incidents of this book enjoin courage, this induces discretion, and thus are we preserved from a one-sided development of our spiritual life. , No study more instructive than that of history, and no history more suggestively written ihan that of the. Israelites. I. THE STliTAGEM OF THE GIBEOSITES shows us--'- 1. The different courses adopted by different men in respect of the same dangers. The overthrow .of J er:icho and the destruction of Ai struck terror into the hea1·ts of the neighbouring iuhab:itants of Palestine. Would not their turn. come next? How should they deal with the difficulty that threatened them ? The only safety seemed to lie in united opposition. So reasoned many of the lrings, and they organised their forces for battle. But the Gibeonites determined to act otherwise. To contract a treaty with the foe would be a greater safeguard than to encounter him in war. Tuis they accordin1:?ly endeavoured to secure in the subtle manner which this chapter records. This variety of sentiment is being constantly exhibited in the pl:u.1s men pursue regarding the "terrors of the Lord" or the assaults of conscience. Conviction of sin and of the retribution to which it exposes the sinner does not always incline him .to sue for mercy. Some brave the attack, and with incredible folly tlght against God. Though others have been overcome, they hope to be suc- cessful. The fall of other cities does not deter them from vain enterprises. Some, like the GiLeonites, are teachable, and if we cannot commend the deception they practised, we can .at least exhort that the impossibility of staying tbe spread of God's kingdom be practically recognised. " Be ye reconciled unto God." 2. I7,e pains taken to preserve life. Self-preservation is accounted one of the strongest instincts of our nature. These Gibeonites spared no trouble in order to gain their end. And yet how often are the things relative to eternal life utterly neglected! 3. The desire often entertained by the world to enter into an alliance with the Church Simon Magus could desire the gift of the Holy Ghost for his own selfish 1mrposes. It suits the plans of many to be considered religious; they assume the garb of piety to carry on their nefarious work unmolested. The Church of Christ i1i Lonnd to exercise discipline, but prevention is better than excommunication. Guard against 1.he intrusion of ungodly men. Seek the direction of God, who will keep His Church pure. The Gibepnites said nothing a.bout adopting in heart the Ott. llt. 1-27.) TltE BOOK OF JOSHUA. 156