Send the Spies

Summary

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Podcast Summary: The Chosen People – "Send the Spies" (Feb 17, 2026)

Overview

This episode of The Chosen People delves into the biblical narrative of Moses sending twelve spies—including Joshua and Caleb—to scout the Promised Land as told in Numbers 13–14. Through cinematic storytelling and dramatic dialogue, the episode explores themes of faith, fear, leadership, and dissent as the Israelites stand on the brink of Canaan. The story unfolds from Moses’ anointing of Joshua to the spies' encounters with adversaries in Canaan, the controversies over their report, and the people’s ensuing crisis of faith.

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Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Moses’ Leadership and Joshua’s Commissioning

• Moses, feeling the pressure and restlessness among his people, gathers representatives from each tribe to form a scouting party. He singles out Hoshea (Joshua), recognizing his loyalty and faithfulness.
• Moses bestows a new name: In a touching and pivotal moment, Moses changes Hoshea’s name to Joshua, meaning "Yahweh is salvation." The name signifies Joshua’s new calling and the source of his strength.
  • Notable Quote
    “Hoshea, if you accept, I will give you a new name… Joshua. Yahweh is salvation. Let this name remind you, no matter the danger or uncertainty, that salvation is found only in the Lord.” — Moses (09:07)
• This naming is both a blessing and a charge, symbolizing trust and an act of preparation for the daunting mission ahead.

2. The Spies Enter Canaan and Confront the Giants

• The scouts, led by Joshua and joined by Caleb and others like Shamua, begin their covert mission, aware of the dangerous and unfamiliar terrain.
• In Hebron, they witness imposing giants—descendants of the Nephilim—whose presence terrifies them.
  • Descriptive Highlight:
    “Their footsteps shook the earth… even from a distance he could tell, these men stood more than a foot taller than he did.” — Narrator describing the Anakites (12:30)
• The episode draws out raw tensions within the group, as fear and bravado lead to abrasive exchanges—a murder among local enemies and debates about the risks.
• Caleb reveals personal connection to the land, explaining “my father’s ancestors, the Kenizzites, lived long before they assimilated into the tribe of Judah. I have ties here.” (12:08)

3. Internal Conflict Among the Spies

• After their frightening encounter, the spies return, deeply divided. Most are unwilling to proceed against such formidable foes, while Joshua and Caleb maintain faith in God’s promise.
  • Notable Exchange:
    • “We don’t stand a chance against them. Where’s your faith? The Lord has promised us this land. It’s ours for the taking if we simply have faith.” — Joshua (16:01)
    • “That’s easy for you to say, Joshua. You didn’t see those giants.” — Shamua (16:10)
• The majority choose fear, while only Joshua and Caleb urge trust in God.

4. Return and Tumultuous Public Report

• Back in camp, the spies are greeted by eager Israelites. Shamua, speaking for the group, delivers a frightening, negative report, focusing on the military might of Canaan’s inhabitants and the presence of giants.
  • Notable Quote (fearmongering):
    “Yes, you remember them from our histories. Horrible, violent giants standing almost twice as tall as our warriors… There is only death in Canaan.” — Shamua (23:18, 23:26)
• Caleb and Joshua counter with bold faith, urging the people to remember God’s promises.
  • Caleb’s Rally:
    “Let’s go. Let’s go now and take possession of the land because we can surely conquer it. Where is your faith? Remember the promise and the one who made it.” — Caleb (24:48)
  • The majority, however, stir the crowd’s fears, accusing Caleb and Joshua of treason, leading the people to call for a new leader and even contemplate returning to Egypt.

5. Crisis and Emotional Climax

• Amid growing chaos, Moses and Aaron collapse in grief, and Joshua and Caleb join them, tearing their garments.
• A pleading Joshua desperately tries to persuade the people:
  • Notable Quote (Desperation):
    “Just stop… This land is incredible… The Lord would not lie to us. He’s bringing us to a land of milk and honey. Don’t rebel against the Lord. Don’t be afraid of the people in the land. The Lord has taken their protection, for he is with us. Don’t be afraid of them.” — Joshua (27:03)
• The mob is further incited by Shamua, and as they prepare to stone Joshua and Caleb, the episode ends with a flash of blinding light—a cliffhanger paying homage to the original scriptural tale.

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Moses to Joshua:
  “I do not tell you this enough, Hoshea, but I am grateful for you. I’ve not known loyalty like yours.” (07:49)
• Joshua’s humility:
  “Thank you, Moses. I don’t know what to say. You’ve been like a father to me.” (08:08)
• Caleb’s Courage:
  “I saw them. But I still remain convinced that the Lord will grant us victory. Fool. Coward. Easy men, easy… Where is your faith?” (16:20)
• Crowd manipulation:
  “We are like grasshoppers before them. It’s hopeless.” — Shamua (25:01)
• Joshua’s despair:
  “Are you even hearing yourselves? … Listen, you fools. Don’t rebel against the Lord. Don’t be afraid… The Lord has taken their protection, for he is with us.” (27:03)
• Climactic mob scene:
  “Caleb flinched as someone spat in his face. He blinked and wiped it away in time to see someone pick up a stone.” (28:08)

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Important Timestamps

• [05:08–10:24] – Moses appoints Joshua, grants blessing, narrative of identity, preparation for mission.
• [11:52–14:37] – Spying in Hebron, encounter with giants, dramatic sense of danger.
• [16:01–18:12] – Internal division among spies, arguments of faith vs. fear, tension rises.
• [21:14–24:20] – The report to Israel, public persuasion and manipulation, crowd erupts.
• [24:48–28:08] – Caleb and Joshua’s stand, accusations of betrayal, near-stoning by the mob.
• [28:54–29:05] – Emotional climax and the blinding light ending.

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Tone & Style

The episode uses vivid narration and dramatized dialogue to create a sense of immediacy and emotional depth. Characters speak in earnest, passionate tones; the story highlights courage, doubt, peer pressure, and the costly choice between faith and fear.

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Conclusion

"Send the Spies" masterfully brings to life the pivotal biblical episode of the Israelite spies with relatable, human drama. It highlights the consequences of fear and faithlessness, the burden of leadership, and the few who dare trust in God against overwhelming odds. Joshua and Caleb’s stand is both inspiring and sobering—a timeless challenge for listeners in any age.

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Transcript

[Narrator]

This is an I Heart Podcast.

[Demi Leigh Tebow]

Guaranteed human.

[Moses]

As a listener of the Chosen People Podcast, you know the power of God's Word. For Christians in more than 70 nations, access to the Bible is limited or even restricted. More than 850,000 Christians need Bibles right now. Through the Voice of the Martyrs Network of Frontline Workers, you have the opportunity to help place a Bible in the hands of every Christian in a hostile area or restricted nation. These workers are willing to risk arrest, imprisonment, beatings and even death to get Bibles to Christians who might never receive them otherwise. We know them by name and you can help learn more about VOM's Bible distribution at vom.org chosenbible Today, our brothers and sisters are asking for Bibles. You can help provide them by visiting vom.org chosenbible now.

[Narrator]

Previously on the Chosen People.

[Moses]

Your name? My son Hosea, son of none. Hoshea, my son, you did everything I asked of you. You did well. I'd have you lead the armies for me, Hoshea. Stand by my side and learn from me. You have an obedient and faithful spirit. With such a spirit, there's no limit to what you can do on behalf of God and for our people.

[Joshua]

You led us well, my friend, with courage far beyond your years or experience. The name's Caleb, son of Jephunneh. I have seen the affliction of my people in Egypt. I have heard their cries and beheld their suffering. I have come to deliver them out of slavery and carry them to a land of promise. A vast and vibrant land teeming with life. A land flowing with milk and honey.

[Moses]

Tell each man to be equipped for battle. There's no telling what perils we'll face on the way to Canaan. The wilderness is treacherous and the path is long. Click the link in the description to grow closer to God. There you'll find daily prayers, Bible plans, sleep stories, and so much more, all.

[Narrator]

On the Pray.com app.

[Moses]

Click the link in the description to get started.

[Demi Leigh Tebow]

Do you need a reset of the mind and soul? Let go of the day's troubles and embrace Christ's peace by listening to Unwind with Me. Demi Leigh Thibault Unwind is your nightly destination for building mindful habits and finding rest. Partnered with licensed Christian therapists, Unwind offers an effective way to work on your mental health. Grow closer to God and find peace right before bed. God's Word promises us that when we make efforts to renew our minds, transformation will follow. True, abiding and life giving Transformation. Experience the transformation that comes from renewing your mind in God's word. Join me as we take steps toward deeper faith together. Listen to unwind with Demi Le Tebow on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Tim Tebow]

Life hits us all hard. Sometimes we get knocked down and let's be real, sometimes it feels easier to stay there. But Gu God has called us to so much more. To live on purpose, to be conquerors. I'm Tim Tebow and I'd love for you to join me on pray.com for daily devotionals that remind us of God's promises and the hope that is an anchor for our souls. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful later on. However, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. But let me tell you, it's worth it. It builds character, produces fruit, and makes us more like Jesus. Jesus didn't live passively. He lived on a rescue mission. As followers of Christ, we're called to do the same, keeping perspective of what God has called us to. Listen to the Daily Pursuit with Tim Tebow on iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Narrator]

Hoshea could feel his heartbeat in his throat, and he fought the urge to wipe his sweaty hands on his cloak. He stood before all of Israel. Just outside the courtyard of the tabernacle, Moses was proclaiming their mandate before the nation, his mandate and the mandate of the 11 other men who stood beside him.

[Moses]

Shamuah, son of Zaccur, from the tribe of Reuben. Shaphat, son of Hori, from the tribe of Simeon. Caleb, son of Jephunneh, from the tribe of Judah. Igal, son of Joseph, from the tribe of Issachar. Joshua, son of Nun, from the tribe of Ephraim. Haute, son of Raphael.

[Narrator]

Joshua. He was Joshua now, though the name still felt foreign, as if it belonged to someone else. Days earlier, Moses had pulled him aside, speaking of the importance of this mission. The people were growing anxious. They had left Hazeroth, mourned those lost to grumbling and the quail's plague, and now stood at Kadesh on the border of the wilderness of Paran. God's people were on the brink of their promised land. Feeling the elders pressure, Moses shared with Joshua his decision to send a scouting party ahead.

[Moses]

The people hold their tongues when I walk by, but they gripe to the elders without abandon, knowing that it will make its way to me. They are cowards, but they of course do not want to be seen as.

[Joshua]

Cowards you can't blame them for being afraid.

[Moses]

But I can blame them for their lack of faith. O', Shea, faith is everything.

[Joshua]

True.

[Moses]

Nevertheless, a good leader listens. That's why I've gathered you and the elders.

[Joshua]

Are you going to send a scouting party?

[Narrator]

I do.

[Moses]

Hoshea, would you go and lead them?

[Joshua]

Me? Lead the scouting party?

[Moses]

Yes. You seem surprised. I'd ask you.

[Joshua]

Moses, you know I will do whatever you ask, but I do not know the way.

[Moses]

Do not fear, young Hosea. I would not send you alone. I have men who would prepare you with maps and knowledge of the terrain, roads, and cities.

[Joshua]

That is good. When would you have us go?

[Narrator]

Moses looked at Hoshea for a moment, considering. Hoshea stiffened under his gaze. Even after all this time, and though he profoundly admired Moses, he was still an intimidating man, for he could perceive in him and deep under the surface, deep rolling anger, ranging from a righteous anger to an indignant sense of injustice. Joshua supposed it fueled the determination to lead their nation, lending him strength and tenacity. He couldn't sense it now, but he knew it was deep within. He did his best not to shrink under Moses steady gaze.

[Moses]

I do not tell you this enough, Hoshea, but I am grateful for you. I've not known loyalty like yours.

[Narrator]

Hoshia was speechless. He could feel his face turning bright red, and the more he thought about how Reddit was growing, the more heat traveled to his cheeks.

[Joshua]

Thank you, Moses. I don't know what to say. You've been like a father to me.

[Moses]

It is you I should be thanking. You truly are a kind of salvation. Your name, Hoshea. Surely your parents told you of the meaning. I suppose they had hoped that our people would eventually be free from our oppressors. I'm sorry that they didn't live to see it. Hoshea, your faithfulness to me and to our Lord will be rewarded someday. But until that day, I would offer you a blessing before you depart on this mission. For me.

[Narrator]

Hoshea was struck silent. A blessing from Moses. Before he could speak, Moses rose and approached him. The prophet, chosen leader of Israel, knelt beside Hoshea and rested a gentle hand on his shoulder.

[Moses]

Hoshea, if you accept, I will give you a new name. A name to give you strength in our promised land. A name to remind you where your true strength lies, in the face of whatever comes. I name you, Joshua. Yahweh is salvation. Let this name remind you, no matter the danger or uncertainty, that salvation is found only in the Lord. The Lord does not fail does not falter and does not abandon his promises. May our God protect you and guide your steps, granting you wisdom and courage above all else. Joshua, do you accept this new name, your new calling, and this mission?

[Joshua]

I accept. I don't know what else to say. You honor me.

[Narrator]

Joshua blinked, fists clenched to steady himself. If he thought any longer about how profoundly meaningful that moment was to him, he would never recover his composure. Not while standing before all of Israel as Moses delivered their charge to the appointed spies. More than anything, he longed to be worthy of this appointment.

[Moses]

And in this way, I charge you to explore the land. Go with courage in the name of the Lord, and bring back the fruit of the land in your report so that all may see the truth of the Lord's promises. Go now with his blessing and his protection before you honor your tribes, for you have each been chosen to represent your people. We await your safe return.

[Narrator]

And with that, the Israelites cheered for their representatives as they waved in acknowledgment of the crowd. Joshua waved awkwardly but felt better when his friend Caleb gave him a playful nudge and flashed him a friendly smile. Joshua was glad Caleb had been selected for his tribe. He felt woefully out of place in this assortment of decorated lieutenants and statesmen from the other tribes. He didn't know any of them personally, but their reputations preceded them, and besides, most had children who were older than he was. But with Caleb by his side, he knew he would have at least one person to watch his back. Joshua and Caleb snuck through some jagged stones overlooking the land of Hebron. The city had jagged buildings hewn from stone, with large pillars of fire illuminating the city streets. Padding close behind was the lieutenant of the tribe of Reuben, Shamua. He was an abrasive and prideful man.

[Shamua]

Remind me again why Hebron is so important.

[Joshua]

Hebron is where most of their forefathers and mothers are buried. Abraham, Sarah, Isaac, Rebecca, Jacob, and Leah.

[Narrator]

Caleb peered down and pursed his lips.

[Joshua]

It is also the land where my father's ancestors, the Kenizzites, lived long before they assimilated into the tribe of Judah. I have ties here.

[Shamua]

Will we be met by friends or foes down there?

[Joshua]

No way of knowing until we get a closer look. It's too risky for all of us to go in.

[Narrator]

I'll go.

[Joshua]

Shamua can come with me.

[Narrator]

The two men crouched and descended the hill. They crawled through the sparse desert brush, scanning the city ahead. At the city's entrance to, two large figures emerged from the shadows. Their footsteps shook the earth, vibrating Caleb and Shamua's chests. What struck Caleb most was their sheer size. Even from a distance he could tell, these men stood more than a foot taller than he did. And Caleb was no small man. Their broad shoulders, powerful legs, and precise movements marked them as warriors, and their cruel iron weapons and lightweight armor confirmed it. His heart sank. These were likely scouts like them, searching for threats. And the Israelites were undoubtedly that threat. Shamua shot him, an alarmed glance echoing Caleb's thoughts. The giants grumbled to each other as they settled into the camp.

[Joshua]

Why'd you got him so quickly? We should have questioned him. And learn what? He was an Amorite. Those greedy dogs only want more land. I didn't want to give him a chance to bark or return home to his masters to whine. We don't even know if he was a spy or an Amorite. Cause he was a spy. And did you see his clothes? Even if he wasn't an Amorite, who cares? He wasn't one of us. Remember when he wet himself? Yes, he wept like a babe. I think I heard him blubbering for his mother when I twisted my blade into his throat. Course it's hard to understand what a man's saying when blood is bubbling out of his mouth. Coward. Coward.

[Narrator]

Caleb and Shamoah exchanged wary looks. That recently and brutally murdered Amorite captive could very well have been them if they had been discovered. Caleb and Shamua silently retreated from their cover, up the hill and away from the giants. They didn't speak a word to one another as they put a mile between them and the terrifying men. Caleb wondered if Shamuah had noticed the dried blood that was crusted on their weapons and clothes, the splatter telling the bloody and violent tale of their victims final moments. Caleb's thankfully empty stomach twisted into knots as he wondered if a similar fate should befall them should they encounter the brethren of these giants in the land of Canaan. Back at camp, Caleb and Shamua shared what they had witnessed. Joshua clenched his fists in frustration. The land was fertile and ripe for their people to thrive, but every mile was filled with adversaries. Battle hardened giant and bloodthirsty adversaries. The spies deliberated about what they were going to report back to Moses and the others.

[Shamua]

There's no way I'm marching into battle.

[Narrator]

Against those giants, another one of the spies, igal from the tribe of Issachar, chimed in.

[Moses]

There's no doubt the land is fertile, but how on earth will we compete for its resources?

[Joshua]

We don't stand a chance against them. Where's your faith? The Lord has promised us this land. It's ours for the taking if we simply have faith.

[Shamua]

That's easy for you to say, Joshua. You didn't see those giants.

[Narrator]

Caleb stood up and interjected. He stood a head taller than the rest, imposing and commanding.

[Joshua]

I saw them. But I still remain convinced that the Lord will grant us victory. Fool. Coward. Easy men, easy. Igel, you witnessed the parting of the Red Sea just as I did. Where is your faith?

[Moses]

I've fought by your side, Joshua. Your experience is the same as mine. You and I both know the capabilities of our armies. I don't understand your optimism here. This task is foolish. It will only bring us death.

[Shamua]

And the lands to the east of the Salt Sea are not much better. Edom's reputation of being an unfriendly neighbor does not bode well. And Moab is held by the Amorites. They say their fortresses are even stronger and better fortified and than the ones here. Not to mention the Amorites are a vile people. They sacrifice their own children to the cruel God Moloch.

[Moses]

Shamua is right. We have to warn the people. We cannot enter Canaan.

[Joshua]

Brother Egal, I can't believe the words I'm hearing. All the more reason we should take the land back.

[Shamua]

Enough, Caleb. If you try and win the people over with a favorable report and rally them to pursue this madness, I'll call you a traitor. We all will. We've talked at length. You're outnumbered, Caleb. Even Igal and Gadiel of your eastern unit are against you.

[Narrator]

Joshua's righteous anger burned as the betrayal unfolded.

[Joshua]

How dare you call Caleb a traitor when it is you who are denying the will of our God?

[Narrator]

Before Joshua could blink, Shamoah was on him. He grabbed the collar of Joshua's robes and roughly pulled him up to his face.

[Shamua]

Oh, we didn't forget about you, little pup. You think you're so special because you fetch Moses wineskin and mend his sandals. Well, listen carefully, little pup. We refuse to let Moses lead us into Canaan.

[Narrator]

Joshua's blood boiled hot. He gripped Shamua's wrists tightly, ready to strike him. Shamua's eyes widened. Realizing that Joshua was stronger than he looked. He released Joshua, sending him tumbling to the ground. Joshua sprang up to strike, but Caleb stepped forward to stop him. A heavy realization sentence. There was nothing he or Caleb could say to change the others minds. The silence that followed was thick and tense as the 10 other representatives stood unmoved, united in their decision to defy the will of the Lord.

[Demi Leigh Tebow]

Do you need a reset of the mind and soul. Let go of the day's troubles and embrace Christ. Peace by Listening to Unwind with Me Demi Leigh Thibault Unwind is your nightly destination for building mindful habits and finding rest. Partnered with licensed Christian therapists, Unwind offers an effective way to work on your mental health, Grow closer to God and find peace right before bed. God's Word promises us that when we make efforts to renew our minds, transformation will follow. True abiding and life giving Transformation. Experience the transformation that comes from renewing your mind in God's Word. Join me as we take steps toward deeper faith together. Listen to Unwind with Demi Le tebow on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Tim Tebow]

Life hits us all hard. Sometimes we get knocked down and let's be real, sometimes it feels easier to stay there. But guys, God has called us to so much more. To live on purpose, to be conquerors. I'm Tim Tebow and I'd love for you to join me on pray.com for daily devotionals that remind us of God's promises and the hope that is an anchor for our souls. No discipline says seems pleasant at the time, but painful later on. However, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. But let me tell you, it's worth it. It builds character, produces fruit, and makes us more like Jesus. Jesus didn't live passively, he lived on a rescue mission. As followers of Christ, we're called to do the same, keeping perspective of what God has called us to. Listen to the Daily Pursuit with Tim Tebow on iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Narrator]

The spies entered camp triumphantly greeted by hopeful Israelites gathered around the Kadesh stream. Moses and Aaron quieted the excited crowd as the 12 spies lined up.

[Moses]

Representatives of Israel, you've returned. As you can see, we are eager to hear your report.

[Narrator]

Caleb noted that Moses frowned silently at Joshua and his placement away from the rest of them. Joshua had not looked up from the ground since camp came into view about two hours ago. In contrast, Shamuah, with an oily politician's smile, stepped forward to give the report on behalf of the 12 spies.

[Shamua]

As a son of the great tribe of Jacob's eldest, Reuben, I will give the report on behalf of my companions.

[Narrator]

Caleb fought the urge to roll his eyes at Shamua's piety.

[Shamua]

It is true, Canaan is a land flowing with milk and honey, as you can see from the Bounty we brought back. But the people there are strong, their cities large and fortified, defended by forces we could never hope to match. In the Negev, we face the Amalekites, fierce desert dwellers we know all too well. To the west, from the salt sea to the great sea, the Canaanites, Hethites and Jebusites hold their cities with tenacity. In the hill country and toward Moab, the Amorites have carved out a kingdom. Their cities are said to be even more fortified than those in the west, and their cruelty is infamous. They sacrificed their children to Moloch, and they are but one of the depraved nations we would face. We even saw the Anakites with our own eyes. Giants. The descendants of the Nephilim themselves.

[Narrator]

The crowd gasped at that. Shamua's scare tactics were working and Caleb's blood was beginning to boil with each word.

[Shamua]

Yes, you remember them from our histories. Horrible, violent giants standing almost twice as tall as our warriors. If I hadn't seen them with my own eyes, I would have thought the stories of their foul deeds to be an exaggeration to scare children. But no. They are real. And they will surely kill us all if we should ever face them in battle. Listen to me, for I have seen the truth of the land. There is only death in Canaan.

[Narrator]

The crowd erupted in fearful chatter. Moses and Aaron exchanged looks of concern as the crowd began to unravel at Shamua's provocative words meant to stir up fear and rebellion. Caleb's anger peaked and he found he couldn't stay silent any longer.

[Moses]

Enough.

[Joshua]

I was there too.

[Narrator]

Caleb threw off Igal's fist, which was now balled on the back of his cloak, and stepped forward to address Shamua and the crowd before him.

[Joshua]

I saw the Anakites to same as you. But I will not let it deter me from taking what has been promised to me.

[Narrator]

The crowd was utterly still at Caleb's words. Shamua was shaking in fury at being contradicted before them all.

[Joshua]

Let's go. Let's go now and take possession of the land because we can surely conquer it. Where is your faith? Remember the promise and the one who made it.

[Shamua]

No, don't listen to him. I name him traitor. He would lead you to your deaths. We can't take this land. The people are too strong. We'd be devoured. The Nephilim are giants. We are like grasshoppers before them. It's hopeless. Ask the other scouts.

[Narrator]

The other scouts rushed forward and added their voices to Chamois. Negative report about the land. Joshua stood alone and silent as the crowd started to lament and complain. They even started hurling curses and insults towards Moses and Aaron in their frenzied fear.

[Joshua]

If only we had died in the land of Egypt or the wilderness. Those we buried at Sinai are better off.

[Shamua]

I've seen what will happen. I ask you this. Why would the Lord bring us here only to die at the sword? Our wives and children will become plunder to the enemies.

[Joshua]

We should go back to Egypt.

[Shamua]

Yes. We should appoint a new leader. One who will lead us back to Egypt. As far away from Canaan as we can get. Moses will lead us to death if we stay with him.

[Narrator]

Caleb watched in helpless horror as the crowd fell into chaos. Moses and Aaron stood, sank to their knees, then lay face down, likely crying out to the Lord for guidance. Caleb felt sick, as if trapped in a nightmare. Joshua staggered over and they both fell to their knees, tearing their clothes in grief. Lament was all they had left in the face of Israel's devastating failure. After all they'd endured, would they really turn their back backs on the God who had rescued them from slavery? Returned to the very chains he had broken? It was madness. Tears filled Joshua's eyes, mirroring Caleb's. And Caleb knew they shared the same desperate thought. Joshua pleaded with the frenzied crowd. Stop.

[Joshua]

Just stop. Are you even hearing yourselves? This land is incredible. It's better than we imagined. The Lord would not lie to us. He's bringing us to a land of milk and honey. He's not holding out on us. Listen, you fools. Don't rebel against the Lord. Don't be afraid of the people in the land. The Lord has taken their protection, for he is with us. Don't be afraid of them.

[Shamua]

Traitors. Why do you want to see us all dead? Why do you hate Israel?

[Narrator]

The crowd had quieted at their words, but it was now muttering and fearful again. Despite Caleb and Joshua's pleas, Shamua rounded on them, a wild, manic look in his eye, his fear forgotten for the moment, his wounded pride seeking vengeance instead. Caleb and Joshua undermined him, and Caleb could see that he was now hell bent on turning this crowd against them.

[Shamua]

You are traitors to turn against your own people.

[Narrator]

This inflamed the crowd and stoked their fear into rage. Caleb flinched as someone spat in his face. He blinked and wiped it away in time to see someone pick up a stone. He saw Shamua see it too. Shamua stooped to pick up a stone himself. Caleb was horrified to see that many others in the first few rows of the crowd did the same. He wondered where his wife and children were. Were they about to witness his death? Caleb's heart broke as he turned to look at a pale and terrified Joshua. Loyal to the end, but he had gotten him into the situation. He knew the boy would follow him, and now he would follow him into.

[Joshua]

Joshua.

[Narrator]

Joshua tore his eyes from the looming men with stones to meet Caleb's now steady gaze.

[Joshua]

I'm sorry.

[Narrator]

Joshua nodded and then closed his eyes as he turned back to face the mob. Caleb did the same and a blinding light erupted all around him. This prey.com production is only made possible by our dedicated team of creative talents. Steve Cattina, Max Bard, Zach Schellewager and Ben Gammon are the executive producers of the Chosen People. Narrated by Paul Caltofianu. Characters are voiced by Jonathan Cotton, Aaron Salvato, Sarah Seltz, Mike Reagan, Steven Ringwald, Sylvia zaradoc, Thomas Copeland Jr. Robert, Rosanna Pilcher and Mitch Leschinsky. Music by Andrew Morgan Smith. Written by Aaron Salvato, Bree Rosely and Chris Baig. You can hear more Pray.com productions on the Pray.com app available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. If you enjoyed the Chosen People, please rate and leave a review.

[Demi Leigh Tebow]

Our God is the same yesterday and today. This New Year reset your mind and soul with the Unwind with Demi Leigh Tebow Podcast. A space for building mindful habits, finding rest, and embracing Christ's peace. He reminds us that he has never left us. When we make the effort to renew our minds, transformation will follow one calm moment at a time. Open your free iHeartRadio app search unwind with Demi Lee Tebow and listen now.

[Narrator]

This is an iHeart podcast.

[Demi Leigh Tebow]

Guaranteed Human.