Lesson 8 — Giants of Faith: Joshua and Caleb By Elder Dr Masimba Mavaza Memory Text: “Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith” (Hebrews 13:7, ESV). From childhood we are shaped by example. We learn to walk, talk, feel, and live largely by imitation. As fallen beings it is easier to follow the wrong example than the right one (Rom. 7:15), yet God still gives us role models whose lives point us to Him. This week we look closely at two such giants of faith in the book of Joshua—Caleb and Joshua—and ask what made them stand out in their generation and in one of the most crucial periods of Israel’s history. Introduction Every act of our lives affects others for good or evil. Children, and even adults, tend to imitate what they see—too often our weaknesses rather than our strengths. Born in sin, we naturally drift toward what is wrong. Yet God gives us leaders whose lives and faith we can “consider” and “imitate” (Heb. 13:7). In Joshua and Caleb we see courage, loyalty, and faithfulness when most chose fear and unbelief. SABBATH — Faithfulness Every act of life ripples outward and is, to some degree, reproduced by others. The question is: What influence are we passing on? Many parents have learned with pain that their children quickly imitate their bad traits instead of their good ones. After the Fall, our natural bent is toward wrong rather than right (Rom. 7:15). This week’s focus is on two giants of faith—Caleb and Joshua—whose lives call us to be positive, courageous role models. Whatever our age, we still need good examples to follow and, by God’s grace, we ourselves can become such examples to others. SUNDAY — A Name Worth Remembering Is, or will, your name be worthy to be remembered? What legacy will you leave behind? Caleb’s name stands out in Scripture, while the names of the other ten spies—Shammua, Shaphat, Igal, Palti, Gaddiel, Gaddi, Ammiel, Sethur, Nahbi, and Geuel—quickly fade into obscurity (Num. 13:6, 30–32; Josh. 14:6, 14). Those ten saw themselves as grasshoppers before the “giants” in Canaan and discouraged the nation. In contrast, Caleb silenced the people and gave a positive report of faith, even in the face of opposition (Num. 14:6–10, 21–25; 26:65; 32:12). His legacy is one of courage when others chose fear. MONDAY — Give Me This Hill Country Caleb’s boldness was rooted in the sure promises of God spoken through Moses. Those promises were etched in his heart (Josh. 14:7). He was convinced that, with God’s guidance and help, Israel could conquer the Promised Land (Josh. 14:6–14; Num. 14:14; 32:12; Deut. 1:36; Luke 6:45). Unlike the fearful ten spies, Caleb manifested deep trust and commitment to God. He understood that the territory each tribe would inherit was linked to how far they dared to claim God’s promises. His request, “Give me this hill country,” was not a demand for an easy place already conquered but for the very region others thought impossible to subdue (cf. Gen. 16:2; Num. 22:6, 11; 23:3). TUESDAY — The Power of Example Caleb encouraged courage in others. His proposal to give his daughter in marriage to the man who captured Kiriath Sepher was a call to valor and faith. He wanted a son-in-law who was bold and committed, a man of action and learning (Josh. 15:16–19; Judg. 1:13; 3:7–11). Othniel, his nephew, accepted the challenge and won the hand of Achsah, Caleb’s daughter. Achsah’s own request for additional springs shows holy boldness as well. Her determination echoes the women in the Gospels who would not give up until they received Jesus’ blessing (Luke 18:1–5). Caleb’s family illustrates how a living example of faith can shape the next generation. WEDNESDAY — Humble Hero Joshua reflected the spirit of Christ, who did not seek His own interests but the interests of others. Only after Israel had received their allotted territories did Joshua think it right to take his own inheritance (Josh. 19:49–51). The city he received—Timnath-serah, meaning “the leftover portion” or “remaining territory”—shows his modest character. He took what was left, not what was best. Significantly, the city was located near Shiloh, where the sanctuary stood. Like David, Joshua desired above all to dwell near God (Ps. 27:4). His humility and God-centered life remain a powerful model of servant leadership. THURSDAY — Changed by Contemplation Neuroscientists such as Marco Iacoboni have shown that “mirror neurons” help explain why we so easily imitate what we see. The world constantly tries to shape us into its mold, but God’s Spirit can transform us from within. True change comes as we follow God’s way rather than the world’s (see Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 355). We are called not to be conformed to this world but to be transformed by the renewing of our minds (Rom. 12:1–2). Contemplating Jesus and the heroes of faith is essential for spiritual growth (Heb. 12:1–2; 2 Cor. 3:18; Phil. 1:6). What we behold, we ultimately become. FRIDAY — Further Thought Caleb believed that God would give Israel Canaan even when most around him doubted. He did not murmur or complain but remained faithful and courageous through every hardship. His faith in God gave him strength to face what seemed impossible. Caleb’s life shows how relying on God’s power enables us to overcome great obstacles. Through the same mighty power of the General of the armies of heaven, every true soldier of the cross may receive strength and courage to conquer what appears insurmountable. — Ellen G. White, Patriarchs and Prophets, pp. 512–513; The Advent Review and Sabbath Herald, May 30, 1912. Keywords The name “Caleb”: From the Hebrew word keleb, “dog.” In the Old Testament it often appears negatively, yet in extra-biblical literature it can symbolize a servant’s courage, tenacity, and faithfulness. Caleb lived up to this meaning, showing unwavering loyalty to his Lord. Caleb’s request: “Give me this hill country.” He did not ask for land already subdued but for the very region the spies had called impossible. With God’s help he would take the stronghold from the giants whose power had shaken Israel’s faith. Even at 85, Caleb remained a living example of what God can do through those wholly devoted to Him. COL: Abbreviation for Christ’s Object Lessons, a book by Ellen G. White on the parables of Jesus and practical Christian living. Discussion Questions Peer pressure and courage: Discuss the power of peer pressure and the courage it takes to speak up when others do not. What role does courage play in practicing our faith? How can we avoid being rude while still standing firmly for what we believe is right? Examples of faith: Share examples of faith from your church or community that have shaped your life and character. What traits in these people are worth following? Media influence: Think about the influence the media has on our lives. How can we avoid its negative effects while using its potential for good? Humility of Joshua: Reflect more on Joshua’s humility as a leader and his desire to live near the sanctuary. In what ways does his example speak to you personally? Happy Sabbath!
Lesson 7 — Ultimate Loyalty: Worship in a War Zone By Elder Dr Masimba Mavaza Memory Text: “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you” (Matthew 6:33, ESV). This week revisits moments when Israel, even under threat, rededicated themselves to the Lord—circumcision in enemy territory, Passover before battle, building an altar mid-campaign, and setting up the tabernacle while seven tribes still awaited their inheritance. In our hurried lives, these scenes call us back to worship as our first work. Introduction Joshua led Israel to prioritize covenant renewal over convenience (Josh. 5:1–12; 8:30–35; 18:1–2). Likewise, we’re invited to keep morning and evening worship and the family altar central — our best investment of time in a pressure-filled world. SABBATH — Praise & Prayer FirstRemain faithful in hardship; don’t forget God amid busyness. Joshua, facing danger, still circumcised the people and raised an altar and tabernacle (Josh. 5:1–12; 8:30–35; 18:1–2). SUNDAY — Covenant FirstCommitment precedes conquest. With nations trembling, Joshua consecrated the new generation (Josh. 5:1–7). Gratitude, not legalism, drives obedience. Put God first — He fights for you (Matt. 6:33). MONDAY — PassoverBefore battle, Israel kept Passover (Josh. 5:10; Exod. 12; Lev. 23:5; Num. 28:16; Deut. 16). Christ is our Passover (John 1:29; 1 Cor. 5:7; 1 Pet. 1:18–19) and our communion points to the marriage supper of the Lamb (Matt. 26:29; Rev. 19:9). TUESDAY — Altars of RenewalAltars marked faith’s footprint and Israel’s claim. Joshua fulfilled Moses’ instructions (Josh. 8:30–31; Deut. 27:2–10). The book’s heartbeat is covenant reaffirmation (Josh. 8:30–35; 24). Jesus (Jeho-shua) leads us into obedience (2 Cor. 1:20). WEDNESDAY — Written on StonesBlessings and curses were proclaimed between Ebal and Gerizim (Josh. 8:32–35; Deut. 11:29; 27:4,13). Two paths of response to the covenant. Because we forget, God gave a written witness (Deut. 6:12; 8:11,14; Ps. 78:7). In Christ, the curse is borne for us (Gal. 3:13; 2 Cor. 5:21). THURSDAY — Longing for His PresenceIsrael gathered at Shiloh to allot the remaining inheritance and set up the tabernacle (Josh. 18:1–2), fulfilling God’s promise to dwell among them (Exod. 25:8; Lev. 26:11–12). Keep God in view (Rev. 21:3). FRIDAY — Further ThoughtOn Mt. Ebal a monument bore the law; beside it stood the altar — teaching that sin deserves wrath yet mercy comes through Christ. Communion is not a ritual of regret but a meeting with Jesus in the saving light of the cross after confession and reconciliation.— Ellen G. White, Patriarchs and Prophets, pp. 499–503; The Desire of Ages, p. 659. Keywords 1st & 2nd Generation of Israel: Joshua mirrors Exodus — Passover, crossings, consecration — marking a new era by God’s intervention. Lord’s Supper: Jesus transformed Passover into a memorial of His death (Matt. 26:26–29; 1 Cor. 11:23–26). Passover: Anticipates the redeemed entering heavenly Canaan and the marriage supper of the Lamb (Rev. 4:6; 7:9–10; 19:9). Mount Ebal: Mountain of the curse (Deut. 11:29; 27:4,13; Josh. 8:30,33). Human Nature: We forget; communion seasons are providential times for personal and corporate renewal in a community of shared faith and mission. Discussion Questions What does it mean to you to seek first the kingdom of God? How does that shape your daily life? Why is it easy to forget the Lord amid life’s rush? What practical solutions help? How does Christ’s intercession in the heavenly sanctuary (Heb. 7:25) give hope — especially in the antitypical Day of Atonement? For November 8–14. Happy Sabbath!