Our blog

Mission FPC

Biblical examples of successful handovers (1/4)

The handover between Moses, the man who led God’s people out of Egypt, and Joshua, his assistant, teaches us.

Joshua appears at Moses’ side quite early on. He is mentioned for the first time in Exodus 17, at Rephidim, just before they arrive at Sinai. He is described as being “Moses’ assistant since youth”[1]. During his long journey at Moses’ side, he has important responsibilities: he successfully leads the military operation against the Amalekites, while Moses, Aaron and Hur intercede[2]. Joshua stands close by Moses: he accompanies him as Moses climbs Sinai[3]. He is also with Moses in the tent of meeting[4]. His position allows him to observe God’s intervention for His people at close range. Beyond his military skills, Joshua displays his great faith in God during the spies’ expedition into Canaan. These qualities are recognized by God, who promises that he will enter the promised land[5].

Moses begins the process of succession by asking God to give him a successor. God designates Joshua and gives instructions for the ceremony. Moses does what is instructed: he lays hands on Joshua and names him as his successor in front of the Israelites and the priest Eleazar[6]. God confirms Joshua’s position by addressing him in the tent of meeting[7]. Moses indicates the end of his leadership to the Israelites by pronouncing a blessing over them as his farewell to them[8]. After Moses’ death, the Israelites recognize Joshua as his successor and promise him their obedience[9]. Moses leaves Joshua and the Israelites two writings which will help them continue their journey: the law[10] and a song[11].

The handover of witness was successful: Joshua clearly steps into his role and he remains faithful. Several key elements led to this success: Joshua’s proven qualities, God’s decisive role in the succession and clear communication.

Philippe Brobecker

[1] Numbers 11.28.
[2] Exodus 17.8-16.
[3] Exodus 24.12-14.
[4] Exodus 33.11.
[5] Numbers 14.30.
[6] Numbers 27.16-23; Deut. 31.7-8.
[7] Deut. 31.23.
[8] Deut. 33.
[9] Joshua 1.16-18.
[10] Deut. 31.24-26.
[11] Deut. 31.22.

Share this article

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

New articles

On our blog

Our blog > >

Mission FPC

Our partners

CNEF
Union APC
Réseau FEF
Vilodec
Tim4
DMG
ExpoBible
GEM
Institut Biblique de Genève 
Institut Biblique et Missionnaire Emmaüs 
Institut Biblique de Nogent 
IBB
Cornerstone Bible college 
FLTE
Bibelschule Brake
Itéa
Le Fellowship 
L'exèdre
Vision Europe
WEM
GOM
Revive Europe
Mena
SMG
Sahel Life
Réseau 55+
SMD
Aujourd'hui l'Espoir

John 3.16

GOD LOVED THE WORLD SO MUCH THAT HE GAVE HIS ONE AND ONLY SON, SO THAT EVERYONE WHO BELIEVES IN HIM WILL NOT PERISH BUT HAVE ETERNAL LIFE.

Become a partner

Pray, give, join

Getting involved >