Numbers 14:38
But Joshua the son of Nun, and Caleb the son of Jephunneh, which were of the men that went to search the land, lived still.
Numbers 14:38 · King James Version
Meaning
After wandering in the wilderness for forty years, seeking the promised land, only two of the twelve men who originally went to search the land remained alive: Joshua and Caleb. Their survival is a testament to their faith and courage in the face of doubt and opposition. Despite the negative reports given by the other spies, Joshua and Caleb remained steadfast in their belief that God would deliver the land to them. Their unwavering trust in God's promises set them apart from their companions and ultimately led to their survival. Joshua would go on to become the successor of Moses and lead the Israelites into the promised land, while Caleb would receive his inheritance in Hebron as a reward for his faithfulness. Their story serves as a reminder that those who remain faithful to God will be blessed and see his promises fulfilled in their lives.
Theological Overview
When reflecting on the theological interpretation of the verse, we can see that Joshua and Caleb were two of the twelve spies sent to scope out the Promised Land. While the majority of the spies brought back a negative report filled with fear and doubt, Joshua and Caleb remained faithful and trusted in the promises of God. They believed that God would deliver the land into their hands, despite the obstacles and challenges they faced. Their unwavering faith and courage set them apart from the other spies, and because of this, they were able to enter and possess the Promised Land. This verse serves as a reminder to us of the importance of faith and trust in God's promises, even in the face of adversity.
Numbers 14:38 in other translations
American Standard Version
But Joshua the son of Nun, and Caleb the son of Jephunneh, remained alive of those men that went to spy out the land.
World English Bible
But Joshua the son of Nun, and Caleb the son of Jephunneh, remained alive of those men who went to spy out the land.
Douay-Rheims
But Josue the son of Nun, and Caleb had gone to view the land.
Geneva Bible (1599)
But Ioshua the sonne of Nun, and Caleb the sonne of Iephunneh, of those men that went to search the land, shall liue.