In our last episode, Israel had successfully crossed the Jordan on dry ground and defeated the walled city of Jericho, not by their own strength, but by the strength of God’s mighty hand over His Creation. God had instructed that all of Jericho be set apart to the Lord for destruction, with specific instruction not to take anything or else that man would also be set apart destruction. One man selfishly rejects this command, which leads to a heartbreaking defeat and a difficult task for Joshua. Later, we’re told that the nations plan to form a coalition and fight against Israel, but the inhabitants of Gideon decide to take a different approach.