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The Twelve Spies: Numbers 13-14
The children of Israel had now come out of Egypt and received the Law. They continued their journey north toward Canaan and came to Kadesh-Barnea. From here twelve men were sent up to Canaan to spy out the land, one from each of the tribes (Numbers 13-14). The two most notable of these men were Caleb (from Judah) and Joshua (from Ephraim).
The men went to the land and saw how beautiful it was. When they returned, they reported that it was indeed a land flowing with milk and honey. However, ten of these men continued with a bad report. They reported that the people in the land were strong, the cities large and fortified, and the descendants of Anak (men of great size) were there. They argued that they were not able to go up against the people, and that they were like grasshoppers compared to those in the land.
Caleb and Joshua disagreed. They argued that they could go up and take the land. They believed they would overcome the people because God was with them. The people would not listen.
This event was the final straw for this generation. Because they failed in their faith toward God, they would have to wander in the wilderness for the 40 years, waiting for that generation to die. Of this generation (over 20 years old), only Joshua and Caleb would go into the promised land. This shows how devastating it can be to disbelieve God. They failed at this time because of their lack of faith.
Discussion
1. About how long had it been since Israel left Egypt when the spies were sent to Canaan? If they had faith, could they have possessed the land at this time?
2. Why did they not believe that they could enter the land? What was their main problem?
3. Look at the statements made by Caleb. What reasons did he give for going into the land at this time? Was he right?
4. How did the people respond to Joshua and Caleb?
5. Discuss the punishment given to Israel for their faithlessness. Who would enter the land?