Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary on the Whole Bible
Joshua Ch.19 / 24 Ch.s
JOS:19
* The lot of Simeon. (1-9) The lot of Zebulun. (10-16) The lot
of Issachar, Asher, Naphtali, and Dan. (17-51)
#1-9 The men of Judah did not oppose taking away the cities
within their border, when convinced that they had more than was
right. If a true believer has obtained an unintended and
improper advantage in any thing, he will give it up without
murmuring. Love seeketh not her own, and doth not behave
unseemly; it will induce those in whom it richly dwells, to part
with their own to supply what is lacking to their brethren.
#10-16 In the division to each tribe of Israel, the prophetic
blessings of Jacob were fulfilled. They chose for themselves, or
it was divided to them by lot, in the manner and places that he
foresaw. So sure a rule to go by is the word of prophecy: we see
by it what to believe, and it proves beyond all dispute the
things that are of God.
#17-51 Joshua waited till all the tribes were settled, before he
asked any provision for himself. He was content to be unfixed,
till he saw them all placed, and herein is an example to all in
public places, to prefer the common welfare before private
advantage. Those who labour most to do good to others, seek an
inheritance in the Canaan above: but it will be soon enough to
enter thereon, when they have done all the service to their
brethren of which they are capable. Nor can any thing more
effectually assure them of their title to it, than endeavouring
to bring others to desire, to seek, and to obtain it. Our Lord
Jesus came and dwelt on earth, not in pomp but poverty,
providing rest for man, yet himself not having where to lay his
head; for Christ pleased not himself. Nor would he enter upon
his inheritance, till by his obedience to death he secured the
eternal inheritance for all his people; nor will he account his
own glory completed, till every ransomed sinner is put in
possession of his heavenly rest.