Joshua 23 lessons offer timeless wisdom for guiding our lives today.
Lesson
Engaging Introduction
Hello kids! Today we’re going to talk about someone very important from the Bible named Joshua. Have you ever had a big task to complete? Maybe something at school, like a project or a test. Sometimes, we have leaders, like our teachers or coaches, who guide us and help us along the way. Joshua was a leader like that for the Israelites.
You see, Joshua was the leader who took over after Moses. Moses did great things, like leading the people out of Egypt, but when it was Joshua’s turn, he had a special job. He led the Israelites into a land that God had promised them. But as Joshua grew older, he knew it was time to talk to his people about what would come next. That’s what we find in Joshua Chapter 23—a special farewell speech from Joshua.
Imagine Joshua gathering all his people, kind of like a big assembly at school with everyone sitting and listening to the principal. Joshua wanted his people to remember some important lessons. Today, we are going to learn what Joshua told his people and how those same lessons can help us live our lives too. So, let’s get ready to hear Joshua’s wise words and see what God has to teach us!
Main Teaching Points
1. Remembering God’s Help
First, Joshua reminds the Israelites about all the amazing things God had done for them. Imagine if you were part of a soccer team and you remembered all the times your coach led the team to victory. Joshua told the people to remember how God led them across the Jordan River and helped them win many battles against their enemies. These weren’t just stories about battles; they were reminders of how God took care of them every step of the way.
It’s important for us, too, to remember the good things God has done in our lives. Maybe He helped you learn how to ride a bike, or He answered a prayer for a friend who was sick. Remembering God’s help can make us feel thankful and not take things for granted. It’s like keeping a memory box of happy times with God!
2. Stay Strong and Obey God
Next, Joshua encourages his people to be brave and obey everything written in the Law of Moses, which are God’s rules. You know, just like when a teacher gives clear instructions for a project, and we have to follow them to make sure it turns out right, that’s how God’s rules work. They’re meant to guide us on the best path.
Joshua said that if the Israelites obeyed God’s rules, they would stay strong and things would go well for them. When we’re at school or playing in the playground, following rules helps keep us safe, doesn’t it? In the same way, following God’s rules helps us live happy and peaceful lives.
3. Avoiding Distractions
Joshua also warned the Israelites about getting distracted by the people living around them who did not follow God. It’s like when you’re doing your homework and the TV is on—it’s so tempting to watch, right? Joshua knew that the people around the Israelites worshipped other gods and did things differently. If the Israelites followed them instead of God, they would lose their way.
For us, distractions can come when we’re spending too much time on screens or trying to fit in with friends who don’t make good choices. Joshua’s reminder is to keep God first and not be swayed by everything happening around us.
4. The Importance of Commitment
Finally, Joshua talks about the importance of committing to God. He warned them not to forget their promise to love and serve God. It’s like when you say you’re going to practice a musical instrument every day—it takes commitment. Joshua wanted them to know that staying close to God was a choice they needed to make every single day.
When we commit to something, like feeding a pet or watering plants, we take responsibility for it. In the same way, Joshua reminded his people—and he reminds us—that it’s important to commit to loving and obeying God and to keep choosing Him every day.
Personal Application for Elementary Students
Now, let’s think about how all of these lessons can apply to us!
First, let’s remember to be thankful for the things God has already done for us. Maybe tonight at dinner, you can share with your family something good that God has done for you this week. Remembering these moments can fill our hearts with gratitude, just like the Israelites remembered how God helped them.
Next, when you hear the word “obey,” remember why it’s important—to keep you safe and happy. When your parents set a bedtime or your teacher asks you to finish an assignment, they’re helping you grow strong and smart, kind of like how God’s rules help us grow strong in our faith.
Also, be aware of distractions. When you’re doing something important, like studying or even playing with your little brother or sister, try to focus on that instead of getting caught up in other things that aren’t as important at the moment. It’s just like Joshua told the Israelites to focus on God.
Finally, make a commitment to spend time with God every day. This could be through prayer, reading a Bible story, or even just thanking God for what you have. You could think of it like brushing your teeth—you wouldn’t skip that every day, would you? In the same way, spending time with God is important for a healthy spiritual life.
Interactive Discussion Questions
Now, let’s discuss some questions together to help us think more about what we’ve learned.
1. What is one thing God has done for you that you are thankful for?
Teaching Guidance: Encourage the children to think about everyday things people might overlook, like good health, family, or answered prayers. Share a personal story to spark inspiration.
2. Why is it important to follow rules, and how does this relate to what Joshua told the Israelites?
Teaching Guidance: Connect academic or household rules to God’s commandments. Discuss how these rules keep us safe and help us live well. Ask them to give examples of rules at school or home that help them.
3. Can you think of a distraction that sometimes keeps you from spending time with God or doing important things? How can we manage distractions better?
Teaching Guidance: Help children identify potential distractions, like screen time or noisy surroundings. Discuss strategies to manage these, such as setting a timer, choosing quiet times for important tasks, or asking for help from adults.
4. What is one small way you can commit to spending time with God every day?
Teaching Guidance: Encourage specific ideas like reading a Bible story, praying before meals, or keeping a gratitude journal. Help them set realistic goals so they can start small and grow their commitment over time.
These questions help us think more deeply about how to bring Joshua’s lessons into our own lives. Let’s remember Joshua’s words and how they remind us to be thankful, obey God, avoid distractions, and stay committed to our faith every day.
Games
Game 1: Joshua’s Wisdom Relay Race
Objective: Reinforce the lessons from Joshua 23 through a fun and interactive relay race.
Number of Players: 8-16 (split into two teams)
Materials Needed:
– Two large sheets of butcher paper
– Markers
– Timer or stopwatch
– A list of questions from Joshua 23
Setup:
1. Write a question related to Joshua 23 on each sheet of butcher paper.
2. Create a start and finish line in a playground or large room.
Instructions:
1. Divide the students into two teams and have them line up behind the start line.
2. Each team receives butcher paper with a question from Joshua 23 written on it.
3. At the signal, the first player in each team runs to a designated spot with their paper and writes an answer to the question.
4. The players run back to the start line, pass the paper to the next team member, who adds another word to the answer.
5. This continues until the team believes their answer is complete.
6. Instructors verify the answer; the first team to correctly complete their answer wins.
7. Discuss the answers as a group.
Lesson Reinforcement: This game encourages students to recall and apply the wisdom and guidance Joshua imparts in Chapter 23, emphasizing themes like obedience and faithfulness.
—
Game 2: Promise Stones Puzzle
Objective: Understand God’s promises and Joshua’s leadership through a creative puzzle activity.
Number of Players: 4-10
Materials Needed:
– Flat stones or puzzle pieces
– Permanent markers
– Copies of key verses from Joshua 23
Setup:
1. Write parts of key verses on each piece or stone.
2. Scatter the pieces around a designated area.
Instructions:
1. Players are tasked to find all pieces scattered around.
2. Once all pieces are collected, students work together to fit the stones or puzzle pieces into a coherent text.
3. When they complete the text, discuss its meaning and relevance to Joshua’s message in Chapter 23.
4. Reflect on why these promises were important and how they can apply today.
Lesson Reinforcement: Assembling the puzzle illustrates how Joshua reminded the Israelites of God’s promises, emphasizing the importance of faithful adherence to God’s word.
—
Game 3: Obedience Obstacle Course
Objective: Highlight Joshua’s call for obedience and perseverance through a physical activity.
Number of Players: 6-12
Materials Needed:
– Cones or markers to outline an obstacle course
– Index cards with obedience-themed tasks
– Small prizes for completing tasks
Setup:
1. Set up an obstacle course with multiple stations.
2. Place an index card with a task at each station.
Instructions:
1. Players take turns navigating the course.
2. At each station, they must perform a task that represents an act of obedience (like reciting a verse or helping another student) before proceeding.
3. Once a player completes the course, they reflect on how overcoming the obstacles relates to following God’s commandments.
4. Discuss as a team the role of obedience in maintaining unity and strength, as highlighted in Joshua’s farewell address.
Lesson Reinforcement: The physical challenge and task completion illustrate the importance of obedience and perseverance, underscoring the lessons from Joshua 23 about staying true to God’s word.
Takehome
Take-Home Assignment: Reflecting on Joshua 23
Introduction
In Joshua 23, Joshua, the leader of the Israelites, gives a farewell speech to remind the people about the importance of following God’s path and keeping the faith. He advises them to remain strong, to love God, and to avoid following the practices of other nations.
Read and Reflect
Read Joshua 23 together as a family, or have a family member summarize the passage to you. Pay attention to the key points Joshua makes in his speech.
Activities
1. Family Discussion:
– Why do you think Joshua felt it was important to remind the Israelites about being faithful to God?
– Can you think of a time when it was important to follow advice from a leader or family member? Share your experiences with each other.
– What are some ways your family can support each other in staying faithful and following good advice?
2. Drawing Activity:
– Draw a picture that represents your favorite part of Joshua 23. It could be something specific from the speech, like Joshua talking to the people, or a general idea like the importance of faith and strength.
3. Make a Family Promise:
– Create a “Family Promise” together that includes ways you can help each other stay strong in faith and make good choices. Write it out and decorate it together, then place it somewhere in your house where everyone can see it.
4. Memory Verse:
– Select one verse from Joshua 23 to memorize as a family. Say it together each day and talk about its meaning and how it can apply to your lives.
5. Thankful List:
– Joshua reminds the people to be thankful for all that God has done for them. As a family, create a list of things you are thankful for. Take turns adding to the list each day.
Family Reflection Questions
– What is one piece of advice from Joshua that stands out to you and why?
– How can we encourage each other as a family to follow good advice and make the right choices?
– What are some ways we can show love to God as a family?
Wrap-Up
Spend a few minutes at the end of the week discussing what everyone learned from Joshua 23 and how you applied the lessons to your life. Celebrate with a small family treat to recognize your teamwork and growth!
Visuals
Slide 1: Title Slide
– Visual: Image of an old, open scroll.
– Caption: “Joshua 23: Joshua’s Farewell Address”
– Description: Introduce the lesson by discussing the context of Joshua as a leader who is nearing the end of his life.
Slide 2: Map of Israel
– Visual: Simple map showing Israel with key locations highlighted (e.g., Canaan, Jordan River).
– Caption: “The Land of Israel”
– Description: Explain the territories Joshua helped the Israelites conquer.
Slide 3: Joshua Speaks to the Leaders
– Visual: Cartoon illustration of Joshua, an older man, speaking to a group of elders.
– Caption: “Joshua Addresses the Leaders”
– Description: Describe how Joshua called the leaders of Israel to tell them important things.
Slide 4: Call to Obey God’s Law
– Visual: Tablets representing the Ten Commandments.
– Caption: “Obeying God’s Law”
– Description: Emphasize Joshua’s reminder to follow God’s law faithfully.
Slide 5: Reminder of God’s Help
– Visual: Scene depicting past victories, such as crossing the Jordan River or walls of Jericho falling.
– Caption: “God’s Help in the Past”
– Description: Highlight how Joshua reminded them of God’s help throughout their history.
Slide 6: Warning Against Idolatry
– Visual: Image showing idols (e.g., a small golden statue) with a red ‘X’ over them.
– Caption: “Avoiding Idols”
– Description: Explain Joshua’s warning to stay away from the false gods of other nations.
Slide 7: Sign of the Covenant
– Visual: Rainbow or a group of people with joined hands.
– Caption: “A Covenant with God”
– Description: Discuss the promise between the Israelites and God to remain faithful.
Slide 8: Reflection and Discussion
– Visual: A thought bubble with question marks inside.
– Caption: “What Would You Do?”
– Description: Encourage students to think about how they can honor promises and listen to advice from elders.
Slide 9: Conclusion and Prayer
– Visual: Children with hands together in prayer.
– Caption: “Prayer Time”
– Description: Conclude with a short prayer for wisdom and faithfulness like Joshua emphasized.
Memory Verse
Key Verse: Joshua 23:11 (NIV)
“So be very careful to love the Lord your God.”
Creative Ways to Memorize:
1. Rhyme:
Create a simple rhyme to make it catchy:
“Love the Lord, yes it’s true,
Be careful every day in all you do.”
2. Song:
Sing the verse to the tune of “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star”:
“So be careful, love the Lord,
Your God, He’s so adored.”
3. Motions:
Develop actions for each part of the verse:
– “So be very careful” – Pretend to tiptoe.
– “To love” – Cross arms over your heart.
– “The Lord your God” – Point upwards.
4. Short Challenge:
Have a memory race:
– Write each word on separate sticky notes.
– Mix them up and challenge the kids to put them in order as fast as they can.
Group Activity
Activity 1: “Promise Puzzle”
Objective: Understand God’s promises and faithfulness as mentioned in Joshua 23.
Instructions:
1. Divide the students into small groups of 3-4.
2. Provide each group with a puzzle that, when completed, shows a scene or verse symbolizing God’s promises (e.g., land, protection).
3. As they assemble the puzzle, read different promises mentioned in Joshua 23 aloud.
Roles:
– Puzzle Assembler: Each student takes turns placing a puzzle piece.
– Promise Reader: Reads a promise aloud every few minutes.
– Encourager: Keeps spirits high and ensures everyone participates.
Discussion Prompts:
– What promises did God give to Joshua and the Israelites?
– How do you think the Israelites felt when God kept His promises?
– Can you think of a promise God makes to us today?
Participation:
– Ensure each student places at least one puzzle piece.
– Rotate roles halfway through the activity so everyone experiences different tasks.
—
Activity 2: “Role-Play Retell”
Objective: Reinforce understanding of Joshua’s message and its importance.
Instructions:
1. Assign each group a passage from Joshua’s speech to act out.
2. Allow the groups time to prepare a short skit illustrating their assigned passage.
3. Present the skits in front of the class.
Roles:
– Director: Guides the skit’s script and direction.
– Actor: Participates in performing the skit.
– Narrator: Provides context and explains the scene before the skit begins.
Discussion Prompts:
– What is Joshua asking the people to remember?
– How would you feel if you were part of the Israelite community hearing this?
– Why is it important to remember promises and commitments?
Participation:
– Ensure each student has a part, whether speaking or acting.
– Encourage creativity in presenting the message of the scripture passage.
—
Activity 3: “Future Leaders” Discussion
Objective: Reflect on leadership qualities and the importance of following God’s guidance.
Instructions:
1. Gather students in circles with 4-5 members.
2. Discuss Joshua’s leadership and the qualities that made him a good leader.
3. Use cut-out stars where students write down a leadership quality they admire.
Roles:
– Timekeeper: Keeps the discussion on schedule.
– Recorder: Writes down key points discussed on a star.
– Presenter: Shares the group’s insights with the class.
Discussion Prompts:
– What qualities made Joshua a strong leader?
– How can we be leaders like Joshua in our own lives?
– What does it mean to be faithful to God in leadership?
Participation:
– Each student shares a thought around the circle.
– Write and share one leadership quality on a star for a classroom display.
Ensure that each student has an opportunity to express their ideas and relevance of Joshua 23 in their own contexts.
Download PDF for Group Activity
Journaling
Guided Journaling Prompts for “Joshua 23”
1. Understanding the Story:
– Who is speaking in Joshua 23 and what is his message to the people?
– Can you think of a time when someone important to you gave you advice? How did it make you feel?
2. Reflection:
– Joshua reminds the people of all the things God has done for them. Can you list three things you are thankful for today?
– Why is it important to remember the good things that happen to us? How does it make you feel?
3. Personal Application:
– Joshua talks about staying close to God and following His ways. What are some ways you can stay close to God in your daily life?
– Has there ever been a time when you had to make a choice to do the right thing, even when it was hard? Write about it.
4. Connecting to Daily Life:
– Joshua tells the people to be strong and courageous. What does being ‘strong and courageous’ look like in your life? Can you describe a situation where you showed these qualities?
– Who are some people that help you stay on the right path, like Joshua did for the Israelites?
5. Prayer:
– Write a prayer thanking God for the guidance and strength He gives you every day. Ask Him to help you make good choices and to be strong and courageous in whatever you do.
6. Open-Ended Questions:
– What do you think might happen if people forget the things that God has done for them?
– How do you feel when you know you are doing something that pleases God? Can you think of something you’d like to do differently to be closer to Him?
Reflect on these prompts, taking your time to write or draw your thoughts, ideas, and prayers.
Quiz
Quiz on Joshua 23
Multiple Choice Questions:
1. Who is speaking in Joshua 23 to the people of Israel?
a) Moses
b) Joshua
c) Aaron
d) Samuel
2. What does Joshua remind the people to do with the laws given by Moses?
a) Ignore them
b) Add more to them
c) Obey them carefully
d) Change them
3. Joshua tells the Israelites not to serve or worship other:
a) Kings
b) Prophets
c) Gods
d) Animals
True/False Questions:
4. Joshua says that God has driven out strong nations before the Israelites. (True/False)
5. Joshua encourages the people to be friendly with the remaining nations around them. (True/False)
Short-Answer Questions:
6. What is one of the key pieces of advice Joshua gives to the Israelites regarding their faith?
7. According to Joshua, how has God helped the Israelites against their enemies?
Answer Key
Multiple Choice:
1. b) Joshua
2. c) Obey them carefully
3. c) Gods
True/False:
4. True
5. False
Short-Answer:
6. Joshua advises the Israelites to remain devoted to the Lord and not turn away from His commandments.
7. God has helped the Israelites by driving out strong nations before them and giving them victory over their enemies.
Teacher Tips
Teacher Notes and Tips for Teaching ‘Joshua 23’ to Elementary Students
Overview of Joshua 23:
Joshua 23 is a chapter where Joshua, the leader of the Israelites, gives a farewell speech to the people. He emphasizes the importance of obeying God’s commands, warns against associating with other nations that do not follow God, and reminds them of God’s faithfulness.
Pacing Suggestions:
– Introduction (5-10 mins): Briefly introduce who Joshua is and the context of the speech. Use visual aids like maps or images to explain the historical background.
– Reading the Passage (10-15 mins): Read the passage aloud, pausing to explain complex words or phrases. Consider using a children’s Bible for simpler language.
– Discussion & Activities (15-20 mins): Engage students in discussions and activities that help them relate to the text and understand its lessons.
– Conclusion (5 mins): Summarize the main points and encourage students to reflect on what they learned.
Explaining Difficult Concepts:
– Leadership and Legacy: Explain how Joshua was a leader like a coach or teacher, guiding the Israelites. Ask students about leaders in their lives.
– Covenant: Simplify the idea of a covenant to a “promise” or “agreement” with God, similar to promises they might make.
– Obedience and Faithfulness: Use everyday examples, like following rules at home or school, to discuss obedience. Tie it to trusting someone who cares for them, like parents or guardians.
Managing Student Engagement:
– Interactive Storytelling: Use props or costumes to make the story more engaging. Assign roles to students and act out sections of the speech.
– Visual Aids: Display images of ancient Israel and significant locations. Use a timeline to place Joshua’s story in history.
– Games and Activities: Create a matching game with key concepts (e.g., “promise” with “covenant”). Use crafts to create reminder tokens, like a simple bracelet, to represent keeping promises with God.
– Reflection Questions: Ask students questions like, “What promises do you keep?” or “Why is it important to have people who guide us?”
Additional Tips:
– Incorporate Music: Use songs about following God’s path to reinforce the message.
– Connect to Life Today: Relate Joshua’s speech to modern situations where students have to choose between right and wrong.
– Positive Reinforcement: Praise attentive listening and thoughtful responses, encouraging participation from all students.
By integrating diverse teaching methods, you can make the teachings of Joshua 23 accessible and engaging for elementary students.
Crafts
Craft: “Promise Stones”
Materials List:
– Smooth stones (about palm-sized)
– Acrylic paint (various colors)
– Paintbrushes
– Permanent markers
– Small paper plates or paint palettes
– Clear acrylic sealant spray (optional)
– Newspaper or craft paper to cover tables
– Wet wipes or paper towels for cleanup
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Setup: Cover the tables with newspaper or craft paper to protect the surface. Lay out all the materials within reach for the students.
2. Select a Stone: Each student chooses a smooth stone as their canvas.
3. Base Coat: Using the acrylic paint and brushes, students paint the entire surface of their stone one solid color of their choice. Allow the stones to dry completely.
4. Design and Message: Once dry, students use paint or permanent markers to write a short Bible verse or a word/phrase from Joshua 23 that speaks to the promises of God, such as “Faith,” “Strength,” or “Courage.” Encourage them to add simple designs or symbols that relate to their message, like hearts or doves.
5. Seal (Optional): If time allows and for durability, an adult can apply a clear acrylic sealant spray over the decorated stones to preserve the artwork.
6. Clean Up: Ensure students clean their brushes and workspace. Dispose of or store leftover materials properly.
Reinforcement of Lesson:
Joshua 23 speaks about Joshua’s farewell address and the reminder of God’s promises and faithfulness. The “Promise Stones” serve as a tangible reminder of these promises. Through this activity, students actively engage with the text by choosing meaningful words or verses, which helps internalize the message. Each stone acts as a physical keepsake symbolizing their commitment to remember and uphold God’s promises, echoing how Joshua encouraged the Israelites to remain faithful to God’s covenant.
Music
Songs and Worship Activities for Joshua 23
Song Recommendation: “Be Strong and Courageous”
– Paraphrase Lyrics:
Verse: “Be strong, be brave, for the Lord is with you. When you walk in His way, He will see you through.”
Chorus: “Keep His commandments, follow His way. Trust in His promises every day.”
– Suggested Actions:
– March in place during the verse to symbolize walking in God’s way.
– Reach out both hands forward on “Trust in His promises” to represent reaching for God’s guidance.
– Make strong arm poses during “Be strong” parts.
– Connection to Joshua 23:
The song encourages students to be brave and follow God’s commandments, echoing Joshua’s instructions to the leaders of Israel to hold firm to God’s law and rely on His strength and support.
Worship Activity: “Commandment Relay”
– Activity Outline:
1. Divide the students into small groups.
2. Create stations that each represent different aspects of God’s commandments.
3. Each station involves a small task or puzzle linked to a commandment (e.g., a matching game with pictures of acts of kindness).
– Connection to Joshua 23:
This activity reinforces the importance of keeping God’s commandments, similar to Joshua’s farewell address, where he urged the leaders to remain faithful to God.
Discussion Points:
1. Who Joshua Was:
Explain to the children that Joshua was a leader who helped the Israelites follow God’s path.
2. Following God’s Way:
Discuss how Joshua reminded everyone to love God and stay committed to His teachings.
3. Being Strong and Courageous:
Talk about real-life scenarios where students need to be strong, like standing up for what’s right or speaking kindly to others.
These activities and songs help elementary students grasp Joshua 23’s themes of obedience, strength, courage, and faithfulness.
Scripture Background
Background Notes for Joshua 23
Historical Context:
– Joshua 23 takes place in Canaan after the Israelites have settled there. The Israelites, led by Joshua, have conquered much of the land that God promised to them.
– The events occur toward the end of Joshua’s life, making this chapter a record of one of his final addresses to the people.
– This period marks a significant moment of transition from a wandering group of tribes to a more settled community in the Promised Land.
Cultural Insights:
– The Israelites were originally nomadic, spending many years traveling through the desert. Settling in Canaan was the fulfillment of a promise made by God to their ancestors.
– Canaan was a land with many other groups and cultures with different religions and gods. The Israelites had to learn to live among these people while remaining faithful to their own beliefs.
– Joshua’s speech was a call to remain faithful to God’s commandments and to avoid blending in with the neighboring cultures in ways that would lead them away from their own faith.
Theological Insights:
– Joshua’s address highlights themes of faithfulness and obedience. Joshua reminds the Israelites of everything God has done for them, encouraging them to love and serve God in return.
– God’s faithfulness to His promises is a central theme. He kept His promise by helping the Israelites conquer and settle in the land.
– Joshua warns the Israelites of the consequences of turning away from God. This emphasizes the importance of choosing to follow God and the blessings that come with obedience.
– It serves as a reminder of the covenant (an important promise or agreement) between God and His people. The Israelites are encouraged to remember this special relationship and live by its commitments.
This chapter is an opportunity to teach about trust in God and the importance of commitment to faith and values within a community.
Download PDF for Scripture Background
Related Articles
- Joshua 23 – Elementary Curriculum
- Bible Quest: Joshua 23
- Black Hebrew Israelites vs Protestants: Galatians 2:28 Intermediate Greek Walkthrough
