Or, “and it came to pass,” as in Num. 7:1; etc. “And,” the first word in Hebrew, may imply that the narrative of Joshua is a continuation of that of Deuteronomy. This suggests Joshua as the writer of the last chapter of Deuteronomy; here he takes up the story and continues with an account of his own experiences. The time here referred to must have been after the 30 days of mourning mentioned in Deut. 34:8.

In Hebrew as in English the term “minister” is not used exclusively of religious service. It indicates a voluntary attendant, one who waits on another, in contrast with a “servant,” who is under obligation for one reason or other.

 The word thus translated often denotes a person completely in subjection to his master. Here it indicates one in complete submission to God and obedient to His biddings. Thus Paul commonly spoke of himself (Rom. 1:1; etc.). A “servant of the Lord” is under bonds to Christ, who has redeemed him from bondage of sin. So it had been with Moses. Joshua, who had served as prime minister to Moses, was now confirmed by God as leader of Israel. His quiet, unpretending fidelity and steadfastness had given evidence of his fitness to succeed Moses. Joshua was born probably a few years before Moses’ flight from Egypt to the wilds of Midian. It did not seem likely then that Moses would ever become the emancipator of a nation. But Providence foresees and prepares long in advance to meet the needs of His people. God holds in reserve agents and forces of which we are unaware until the time comes. How was an unknown university professor, for instance, to shake all Europe and cause the pope to tremble on his throne? Nothing seemed more impossible; yet Frederick, prince of Saxony, was placed by God upon his throne, ready to help when the time should come. And long before Luther was born, Providence ordained the printing press, which was to become Luther’s deadliest artillery. God’s plans are perfect, and for the accomplishment of His every purpose there comes the hour, and with it, the man for the hour.

God’s plans are never dependent on one man alone. When a Moses dies, God has a Joshua ready. Moses was best qualified to stand before Pharaoh; Joshua, to stand before the Canaanites. God’s choice of a man is made with respect to four factors:

 (1) His temperament and disposition. Joshua had a natural capacity for military affairs. He was bold and firm (Num. 14:6-9) and wielded a powerful personal influence (Joshua 24:31).

 (2) His previous training. Joshua had already served for 40 years as a responsible leader (Ex. 17:9, 10; Num. 13:2, 3, 8). Training and experience are essential.

 (3) His reputation. He and Caleb had stood alone for an unpopular cause.

 (4) The task to be accomplished. To dispossess the Canaanites, a soldier was needed. The man and the need must correspond.