Justin Houtz

Joshua 15-17; 1 Corinthians 8

DateVersionReading Plan
March 23, 2026ESV (2016)ESV Life Journal Plan – 2026

Joshua 15-17

Observation & Interpretation

Chapters 15 though 17 deal primarily with the tribal allotment of lands and their boundaries. However, there is a repeated theme in which we read of how the native inhabitants were not fully driven out. Judah could not drive out the Jebusites, so they dwelled with the people of Judah at Jerusalem (Josh. 15:63); Ephraim did not drive out the Canaanites who lived in Gezer, they the lived in the midst of Ephraim (Josh. 16:10); the people of Manasseh could not take possession of some cities due to the Canaanites persistence in dwelling in the land who were put to forced labor when the people of Israel became strong (Josh. 17:12-13)

Application

There are consequences of not fully abiding in God’s commands. As with the difficulty that arose when the Israelites did not fully drive out the nations from the lands they were to possess, we too will incur struggles as we half-heartedly follow what God has graciously provided by His Word. May we be convicted of our lukewarm obedience such that we turn from it and strive to glorify God by living for Him in faithfulness.

1 Corinthians 8

Observation & Interpretation

Paul speaks of food offered to idols, that idols have no real existence and that some have this knowledge while others do not. For those who do have such knowledge, it is a sin to proceed in eating food offered to idols if by doing it makes a weaker brother stumble.

Application

Our walk with Christ has a direct impact on those of whom were a surrounded. We are always to be mindful of how our knowledge can lead to the stumbling of others. All true Christians are at some point on the path of spiritual maturity and we are to consider our conduct in light of those who may be weaker or younger in the faith. Let us then steward our knowledge well, not to puff ourselves up but to build up our brothers and sisters in love, that our actions would lead to an encouragement of growth and a strengthening of faith.

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