ESV Reformation Study Bible – Josh 1:1
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Josh 1:1

1:1 the servant of the Lord. This title of honor suggests the special role of Moses in God’s purposes (vv. 1, 2, 7, 13, 15; cf. Is. 42:1). It was also given to Abraham (Gen. 26:24) and will be applied to Joshua on his death (24:29).

Joshua. Joshua’s name was changed from “Hoshea” (“salvation”) to “Joshua” (“the Lord is salvation”) by Moses (Num. 13:16). Joshua appears as Moses’ assistant as early as Ex. 17. He was one of the men sent from Kadesh-barnea to explore the land (Num. 13:8), and he joined Caleb in calling on the Israelites to trust the Lord and not to rebel against Him (Num. 14:6–9). Like Caleb (Deut. 1:36), he escaped the judgment that fell on that generation because of its refusal to obey God at Kadesh-barnea. Joshua is presented as the successor to Moses, as was anticipated before Moses’ death (Num. 27:12–23; Deut. 3:28; 31:1–8). Joshua’s role, however, continues to be subordinate to that of Moses. This is expressed in his submission to the “Book of the Law” (1:8 note) and his obedience to the commands of Moses, something repeatedly emphasized throughout the book (e.g., 1:7; 8:31; 11:12, 15; 14:2, 5; 20:2). In the transition from Moses to Joshua there is continuity because the purpose of God for Israel persists, but there is discontinuity too, because the era of Moses was unique and is the standard of comparison for future generations. There is a similar continuity and discontinuity in the New Testament transition from the Gospels to the Book of Acts.