Josué 10:5

Ver. 5. Therefore the five kings, &c.— Hebron belonged to the Hittites, Génesis 23:1; Génesis 25:9. Jerusalem to the Jebusites, chap. Jueces 15:63 and the Gibeonites made a part of the Hivites, chap. Josué 9:7.

But as the Amorites were the most powerful nation in the land of Canaan, Génesis 15:16 they held in subjection one part of their neighbours, and had given them kings. Hence it is, that the Gibeonites are particularly called a remnant of the Amorites, 2 Samuel 21:2.

REFLECTIONS.—Alarmed by the capture of Jericho and Ai, and more irritated with the surrender of Gibeon, Adoni-zedec, king of Jerusalem, (as it was afterwards called,) summons his neighbour kings to unite their forces against Gibeon; either to prevent so strong a city, and one so near him, from being occupied by his enemies, or to make an example of those who were accounted betrayers of their country. Note; They, who leave the ways of sin, must not expect to part from the world without persecution. Satan and his servants will prosecute those as deserters who inlist under the banners of Jesus.

Alarmed by their approaching danger, they fly to Joshua for help. Though mighty men, they know themselves unable to cope with these confederate armies, and therefore plead that league which, though fraudulently obtained, they were assured would be religiously observed. They are importunate, because the danger was imminent; and expect protection, not only for the oath's sake, but in honour, as allies suffering for their attachment to Israel; and in interest, as servants, whose destruction would be Israel's loss.

Note; (1.) When our souls are sore thrust at by legions of corruptions within and temptations without, we must look up to Jesus, the glorious Captain of our salvation, whose hand is not shortened that it cannot save, nor his ear heavy that it cannot hear. (2.) If we are in fidelity cleaving to God as his servants, we may rest assured of his protection as our Almighty Lord.