Character Study Of Caleb Series

CHARACTER STUDY OF CALEB – FAITHFUL SPY, ENTERED THE PROMISED LAND

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Numbers 14:24

"But my servant Caleb, because he had another spirit with him, and hath followed me fully, him will I bring into the land whereinto he went; and his seed shall possess it."

Supporting Texts:

Joshua 14:6-14, Deuteronomy 1:35-36, Numbers 32:12, Judges 1:12-15

INTRODUCTION:

Caleb was one of the twelve spies sent by Moses to explore the land of Canaan. Unlike the majority, Caleb and Joshua returned with a positive report, trusting that God would give them victory over the land. His faith and unwavering spirit set him apart, and as a reward, he was one of only two Israelites from his generation to enter the Promised Land.

The name Caleb means "wholehearted" or "faithful," which reflects his character. His life exemplifies courage, faith, and endurance. He stood firm in the face of opposition and remained faithful to God's promises.

This study will explore Caleb’s life, faith, challenges, and the lessons we can learn from his unwavering commitment to God.

1. CALEB WAS A MAN OF STRONG FAITH

Caleb's faith in God was unshakable, even when others doubted.

a) He trusted God's promise despite opposition (Numbers 13:30)

While others feared the giants, Caleb believed in God's ability to deliver them.

b) He encouraged Israel to move forward in faith (Numbers 14:6-9)

He reminded them that God was with them and that they should not be afraid.

c) He remained confident in God's plan for his life (Joshua 14:12)

Even at 85 years old, Caleb still believed he could conquer the land God promised him.

d) Faith sustained him through years of waiting (Deuteronomy 1:36)

While others perished in the wilderness, Caleb held on to God’s word.

e) Biblical Example: Abraham believed God's promise despite old age (Romans 4:19-21)

2. CALEB STOOD FIRM DESPITE NEGATIVE INFLUENCES

Even when surrounded by fear and doubt, Caleb stood his ground.

a) He was not influenced by the ten fearful spies (Numbers 13:31-33)

While others spread fear, Caleb spoke faith.

b) He chose to believe God rather than men (Numbers 14:8)

He refused to listen to the discouragement of the people.

c) His convictions remained unchanged for 45 years (Joshua 14:10-11)

He held on to God's promise despite delays.

d) He did not let the majority sway him (Numbers 14:10)

He was willing to stand alone for the truth.

e) Biblical Example: Daniel refused to compromise despite pressure (Daniel 1:8)

3. CALEB WAS A MAN OF COURAGE

Courage is the ability to act in faith despite fear, and Caleb demonstrated this throughout his life.

a) He was ready to fight for God's promise (Joshua 14:12)

At an old age, he was still eager to conquer the land.

b) He saw opportunities where others saw obstacles (Numbers 14:9)

He focused on God's power rather than the size of the enemy.

c) He led the attack on Hebron, defeating the giants (Joshua 15:14)

His faith and courage led to victory over the Anakites.

d) His courage inspired future generations (Judges 1:20)

His family and tribe followed his bold example.

e) Biblical Example: David faced Goliath with courage (1 Samuel 17:45-50)

4. CALEB FOLLOWED GOD WHOLEHEARTEDLY

One of Caleb’s greatest strengths was his total commitment to God.

a) God testified that Caleb had a different spirit (Numbers 14:24)

He was fully devoted to God's ways.

b) He obeyed God's instructions completely (Joshua 14:8)

Unlike others, he did not waver in his obedience.

c) His commitment was lifelong, not seasonal (Joshua 14:10)

He remained faithful to God even in old age.

d) His wholehearted service brought generational blessings (Joshua 14:13-14)

His descendants inherited the land he conquered.

e) Biblical Example: Paul remained faithful until the end (2 Timothy 4:7-8)

5. CALEB RECEIVED HIS INHERITANCE BY FAITH

Caleb’s faith resulted in tangible rewards from God.

a) He claimed his God-given portion (Joshua 14:12-13)

He was not afraid to take what was promised.

b) His inheritance was based on God's promise, not human effort (Joshua 14:9)

He trusted in divine provision rather than personal ability.

c) His land was a place of victory, not defeat (Joshua 15:14)

He conquered and occupied the land.

d) His faith secured blessings for his descendants (Joshua 14:14)

His family continued to enjoy the fruit of his obedience.

e) Biblical Example: The Israelites inherited the Promised Land through faith (Hebrews 11:30-31)

6. STRENGTHS OF CALEB

Caleb had exceptional qualities that made him a great leader and man of faith.

a) Strong faith in God (Numbers 14:8)

b) Unwavering commitment to God's promises (Joshua 14:9)

c) Courage and boldness in the face of challenges (Joshua 14:12)

d) Endurance and patience in waiting for God’s timing (Joshua 14:10)

e) Leadership that inspired others (Judges 1:20)

7. WEAKNESSES OF CALEB

Although Caleb was a great man, there are few weaknesses recorded about him in Scripture.