Student Connect

Joshua's leadership is characterized by military conquest and the establishment of a physical kingdom in Canaan. This approach reflects a tangible, immediate form of divine intervention and justice, where obedience to God's commands results in concrete rewards and victories. The ethical implications of Joshua's actions, particularly the destruction of the Canaanites, raise questions about the nature of divine justice and the morality of warfare. This can be contrasted with Jesus' approach, which emphasizes spiritual conquest and the establishment of a spiritual kingdom. Jesus' teachings focus on love, forgiveness, and turning the other cheek, presenting a radically different model of leadership and divine justice.

Philosophically, Joshua's narrative can be seen as embodying a more Old Testament view of divine retribution and covenantal faithfulness, where blessings and curses are directly tied to obedience and disobedience. In contrast, Jesus' ministry introduces a New Testament perspective that emphasizes grace, mercy, and the internal transformation of individuals. This shift from external to internal focus highlights a deeper, more personal relationship with the divine, where salvation is not earned through conquest but received through faith and repentance. I think it's worth noting if you read some of the descriptions by Old Testmaent prophets of what the coming messiah would be like, he is sometimes described as a warrior and having a sword. It seems the jewish people expected a mighty warrior king to come and physically establish rule. What they got was almost the complete opposite of what they expected, which I always found interesting.