The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) Day 85: Fighting for Each Other (2026)
26 snips
Mar 26, 2026 A look at Joshua's battles and the difficult commands in the conquest narratives. Discussion of biblical hyperbole and how to understand violent language. Reflection on God’s broader aim of reconciliation and unity among nations. A call to fight for one another through prayer and mutual support.
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Caleb Claims Hebron After 45 Years
- Caleb recounts being 40 when he spied the land, swore fidelity to God, and was promised the land he trod.
- At 85 Caleb still claims strength for war and receives Hebron as his inheritance from Joshua.
Conquest Language Is Often Hyperbolic
- Fr. Mike explains the conquest language (total destruction) is often hyperbolic and constrained by Deuteronomy's rules, not literal universal genocide.
- He cites Joshua vs. Joshua 15 and Deuteronomy 7 and 20 as examples showing exaggeration and limited engagements.
Moral Corruption Explains Divine Judgment
- The purpose of driving out Canaanites was moral and spiritual: their practices (sexual immorality, child sacrifice) would corrupt Israel.
- Fr. Mike references Leviticus 18 and Deuteronomy 12 as the biblical basis for this judgment.