Gibeon - Hivites: Choosing God's Way Over Deception

Gibeon - Hivites: Choosing God's Way over Deception

Introduction:

Good morning/afternoon, dear congregation. Today, we delve into the powerful and enlightening narrative of Joshua, Chapters 9-11, centered around the Gibeonites, a group of people known as the Hivites, and their remarkable choice to prioritize God's way over deception. The story of Gibeon teaches us valuable lessons about discernment, obedience, and the sovereignty of God. Let us explore seven essential topics along this journey, each accompanied by suitable Bible references, stories, and illustrations.

1. The Deceptive Scheme (Joshua 9:3-6)

In Joshua 9, we encounter the Gibeonites' cunning plan to deceive the Israelites. They dressed in old clothes and presented moldy bread, pretending to be travelers from a distant land. Their motive was to escape destruction by forming an alliance through deceit. This reminds us of how the enemy can manipulate circumstances to lead us astray. Just as the Israelites faced deception, we too must remain vigilant against the enemy's schemes and seek God's wisdom in every situation.

A. Understanding the Deceptive Scheme:

In Joshua 9:3-6, we encounter a cunning plan orchestrated by the Gibeonites, a group of Hivites living in the land of Canaan. Fearing the might of the Israelites and their God, the Gibeonites resorted to a deceptive scheme. They dressed in worn-out clothes, took old sacks and wineskins, and filled them with cracked, dry bread. With these props, they approached Joshua and the Israelites, posing as travelers from a distant land. Their intention was to deceive the Israelites into forming a treaty and alliance with them, thus sparing themselves from destruction.

B. Lessons from the Deceptive Scheme:

a. The Reality of Deception:

The Gibeonites' scheme serves as a reminder that deception is a tool the enemy often employs to divert us from God's path. Just as the Gibeonites used outward appearances to mislead, the enemy disguises his lies with alluring facades. 1 Peter 5:8 warns us to be vigilant, for the devil prowls like a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour.

b. The Danger of Relying on Appearances:

The Israelites' mistake was relying solely on their sight and human judgment. They did not inquire of the Lord before making a decision. Similarly, we can be deceived when we rely solely on what we see, hear, or think. Proverbs 3:5-6 exhorts us to trust in the Lord with all our heart and lean not on our understanding.

C. Application in Our Lives:

a. Seeking Discernment:

In a world filled with deception, we must seek discernment from God. James 1:5 promises that if anyone lacks wisdom, they should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault. Let us cultivate a habit of seeking God's wisdom through prayer and His Word.

b. Trusting God's Word:

The Word of God is a sure foundation against deception. When we immerse ourselves in Scripture, we equip ourselves to recognize falsehood. Hebrews 4:12 reminds us that the Word is living and active, discerning our thoughts and intentions.

c. Obedience to God's Guidance:

The Israelites' error arose from failing to consult the Lord. Obedience to God's guidance is our shield against deception. Psalm 25:4-5 implores, "Show me your ways, Lord, teach me your paths. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long."

2. A Rash Decision (Joshua 9:14-15)

Despite God's command to not make alliances with the Canaanite nations, Joshua and the Israelite leaders failed to consult the Lord before agreeing to the Gibeonites' proposal. Their haste led to a rash decision that resulted in a binding agreement. This highlights the importance of seeking God's guidance and not relying solely on our own understanding. As Proverbs 16:25 warns, "There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end, it leads to death."

A. The Hasty Pact and God's Command:

In Joshua 9:14-15, we find the Israelite leaders faced with a decision that would impact their destiny. The Gibeonites had deceived them with their worn-out appearance and old provisions, leading the leaders to believe they were from a distant land. Without seeking God's guidance, Joshua and the leaders made a pact with the Gibeonites, unknowingly violating God's command not to make alliances with the inhabitants of Canaan.

B. Lessons from a Rash Decision:

a. Ignoring God's Wisdom:

The Israelite leaders' haste in making a pact with the Gibeonites illustrates the danger of ignoring God's wisdom. Proverbs 14:12 reminds us, "There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end, it leads to death." Relying on our own understanding without consulting God can lead to grave consequences.

b. The Cost of Impulsivity:

Rash decisions often come with unforeseen costs. The Israelites' agreement with the Gibeonites led to a binding pact that affected their relationships with other nations and altered their path in the Promised Land. Similarly, our impulsive choices can alter the course of our lives, causing us to deviate from God's intended plan.