Old Testament
Joshua 7:19
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Joshua said to Achan, "My son, I pray you, give glory to the LORD God of Israel and confess to Him. Tell me what you have done; do not hide anything from me."
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And Joshua said unto Achan, My son, give, I pray thee, glory to the LORD God of Israel, and make confession unto him; and tell me now what thou hast done; hide it not from me.
What Joshua 7:19 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Joshua addresses Achan after the defeat of Israel at Ai, which was a consequence of Achan's disobedience. Joshua urges Achan to confess his wrongdoing and give glory to God. This highlights the importance of honesty and accountability in our relationship with God. Joshua's approach is compassionate, referring to Achan as 'my son,' which shows a desire for Achan to come forward and take responsibility for his actions. The act of confessing is not just about admitting guilt; it is also about recognizing God's holiness and the seriousness of sin. By confessing, Achan would not only be seeking forgiveness but also restoring his relationship with God and the community. This moment serves as a reminder that hidden sin can have serious consequences, and that bringing our wrongdoings into the light is essential for healing and restoration.
How to apply Joshua 7:19 to your life
This verse encourages us to be honest about our mistakes and to confess them to God. Hiding our wrongdoings can lead to greater problems, while bringing them to light allows for healing and restoration. We should seek to glorify God through our honesty.
Curated for this public verse page. Joshua Summary
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Illustrated scene from Joshua's story: Defeat at Ai (Joshua 7:1–26)
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Joshua
Photo: Bukvoed, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 4.0. Source. Location: Burj Beitin, Beitin, Ramallah and al-Bireh Governorate, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Bethel
Where Jacob dreamed of a stairway to heaven and met God.
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Keep studying Joshua 7:19
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At a Glance — the Book of Joshua
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Joshua and later compilers
- Written
- Around 1400-1370 BC
- Genre
- Historical narrative
- Original Audience
- The Israelites entering Canaan
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Joshua 7:19 mean?
Joshua 7:19 shows Joshua urging Achan to confess his sins after Israel's defeat at Ai. It emphasizes the importance of honesty and accountability in our relationship with God, as well as the need to acknowledge wrongdoing.
What is the significance of confessing in Joshua 7:19?
Confessing in Joshua 7:19 is significant because it highlights the need for honesty and the recognition of God's holiness. Achan's confession would not only seek forgiveness but also restore his relationship with God and the community.
What does 'give glory to the LORD' mean in Joshua 7:19?
In Joshua 7:19, 'give glory to the LORD' means to acknowledge God's authority and holiness. It involves recognizing the seriousness of sin and the need to come forward with honesty and humility.
Why did Joshua call Achan 'my son' in Joshua 7:19?
Joshua calls Achan 'my son' in Joshua 7:19 to show compassion and a desire for Achan to take responsibility for his actions. This approach reflects a caring relationship, encouraging Achan to confess his wrongdoing.
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