The Conquest of Canaan: Answering Objections With Michael Jones (of Inspiring Philosophy)
Jun 6, 2024
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Michael Jones from Inspiring Philosophy joins Gavin Ortlund to discuss the historicity and morality of the conquest of Canaan. They explore the credibility of the Bible, interpret archaeological evidence in Jericho, and examine ethical dilemmas in divine judgment. The conversation delves into nuanced perspectives on the conquest of Canaan in the book of Joshua and raises questions about complex moral issues.
The language of total destruction in Joshua signifies military victory, not literal slaughter.
Analogies with World War II aid in understanding Israelites' military advance in Canaan.
Interpreting ancient texts like Joshua requires recognizing cultural norms and rhetorical styles.
Deep dives
Hyperbolic Language Used in Ancient Warfare Rhetoric
The language of total destruction in the book of Joshua should be understood in the context of ancient warfare rhetoric. The phrase 'destroy them all' was a common idiom to describe a decisive military victory, not necessarily a literal killing of every non-combatant. This language mirrored accounts from other cultures that did not actually denote universal killings but rather military conquests.
Military Advance vs. Ethnic Cleansing in the Book of Joshua
Analogies such as Allied soldiers entering Nazi Germany at the end of World War II offer a helpful perspective in understanding the events in the book of Joshua. The Israelites' actions were more akin to a military advance against an advanced and oppressive power, not an act of ethnic cleansing. Viewing the narrative as a military strategy rather than a campaign targeting non-combatants provides a clearer context.
Application of the Principle of Charity to Biblical Interpretation
Applying the principle of charity to biblical interpretation involves understanding the hyperbolic nature of ancient texts like Joshua. Just as modern speeches can use metaphors or hyperbolic expressions, ancient accounts contained language familiar to their cultural context. Interpreting the book of Joshua in light of cultural norms and rhetorical styles of the time allows for a more nuanced understanding.
Considering God's Foreknowledge and Moral Dilemmas
Reflecting on God's foreknowledge and the complex ethical dilemmas in ancient warfare contexts prompts a deeper exploration of moral considerations. The intricate interplay of theological precepts, cultural contexts, and divine wisdom underscores the multifaceted nature of ethical judgments within biblical narratives. God's actions in the book of Joshua may be perceived through the lens of divine foresight and the necessity of decisive intervention to prevent escalating evil.
The Ultimate Message of Grace and Redemption in the Bible
Amidst discussions on challenging topics like the conquest of Canaan, it is vital to anchor the interpretation within the broader biblical narrative of grace and redemption. Emphasizing the overarching theme of God's love and redemptive purposes throughout Scripture highlights the transformative message of salvation offered through Christ. While grappling with difficult historical events, recognizing the redemptive arc of God's plan ensures a holistic understanding of biblical teachings.
Gavin Ortlund and Michael Jones from Inspiring Philosophy discuss the historicity and morality of the conquest of Canaan.
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Inspiring Philosophy's video on the conquest of Canaan: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HCstm5DYnb4
Truth Unites exists to promote gospel assurance through
theological depth.
Gavin Ortlund (PhD, Fuller Theological Seminary) is
President of Truth Unites and Theologian-in-Residence at Immanuel Nashville.
