The Teach the Text Commentary Series gives pastors the best of biblical scholarship and presents the information needed to move seamlessly from the meaning of the text to its effective communication. By providing focused commentary, this volume allows pastors to quickly grasp the most important information. Each unit of the commentary includes the big idea and key themes of the passage; sections dedicated to understanding, teaching, and illustrating the text; and full-color illustrations, maps, and photos. Joshua covers a critical period in the history of Israel, as God brings them out of the desert wanderings into the land he promised them, through a series of spectacular military maneuvers. Yet readers today may struggle with commands from God that offend modern sensibilities. And what does the conquest and division of the promised land have to do with the Christian life? Professor Kenneth Mathews helps teachers, preachers, and everyday readers understand this important Old Testament book in its original context and apply it for today. While Joshua is historical, it is also theological. The crucial lessons then and now are that God's word is truthful and authoritative and that he fulfills his promises. -- from the back cover