You will remember that, in God’s dealings with mankind, he chose one particular man, Abraham. Through that man, God intended to raise a special nation, through which he could bring his message of redemption to the whole world.

God directed that nation down into the land of Egypt to preserve it during a time of world-wide famine and need. Joseph was our outstanding leader at that point.

In the last chapter, God brought his chosen people back across the wilderness to the very edge of the land of promise, and Moses was our key person at that time.

Under the command of Joshua, the people of God then crossed the Jordan River, entered the promised land, and took up their abode.

For a number of years (probably about 300 - see Judges 11:26) God watched over his people and guided them by means …