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Lesson 10, “The True Joshua,” reveals how the Old Testament Joshua points to Jesus Christ, the greater Joshua, who leads His people into the ultimate Promised Land. The stories of Jericho, Ai, and Israel’s early battles teach enduring spiritual lessons for God’s people living at the end of time. Christ, the Commander of the Lord’s Army Before the fall of Jericho, Joshua encountered the "Commander of the Lord’s Army" (Joshua 5:13–15), widely understood to be the pre-incarnate Christ. This reminds us that the real Leader of God’s people—ancient Israel and the church today—is Jesus Himself. Victory comes only as we follow His direction. Jericho: Victory by Faith, Not Strategy Jericho fell not by military power, but by obedience to God’s unusual instructions. This teaches that divine victories require faith and trust, not human strength. God brings success when His people follow Him fully. Ai and the Danger of Presumption Israel was defeated at Ai because of hidden sin (Achan) and self-confidence. They assumed that a smaller city required less dependence on God. This warns believers today against presuming upon God while tolerating sin or relying on human wisdom. Examples for the Last Days Paul writes that these stories were “examples” for those living at the end of time (1 Cor. 10:11). The experiences of ancient Israel—faith, obedience, failure, repentance, restoration—mirror the spiritual battles faced by God's people today. Jesus as the True Joshua As Joshua led Israel into Canaan, Jesus leads His followers into salvation and spiritual victory. Joshua could bring only temporary rest; Christ offers eternal rest (Hebrews 4). He defeats spiritual enemies and empowers His church for mission. Applications 1. Follow Jesus as the Commander—victory comes only from Him. 2. Obey God’s Word even when His instructions seem unusual or difficult. 3. Beware presumption; spiritual success requires continual dependence on Christ. 4. Learn from Israel’s experiences—faith, obedience, humility, and repentance remain essential. 5. Trust Jesus to lead you into true rest and lasting victory. ✨ In essence: The story of Joshua teaches that Christ is the true Leader of God’s people. Through Him alone we find victory, rest, and the fulfillment of all God’s promises.