Forty-five years have elapsed since the incident at Kadesh-barnea, Num. 14. Caleb is still determined to claim his inheritance, with the Lord’s help, Josh. 14. 12. God has kept the inheritance for him, and Caleb for the inheritance, 14. 10-11. He is as strong now as then. In 1 Peter we read of an inheritance awaiting us, also preserved; and of God’s power being exercised to preserve us, 1. 3-5.
What is Caleb’s inheritance?Hebron: a place of special significance in regard to the purposes and people of God; chosen by God for Abraham, where he dwelt and built an altar, Gen. 13. 14-18, and where the patriarchs were buried. Is that why it meant so much to Caleb? And his feet had trodden on it, 14. 9. Do we value our spiritual inheritance, our birthright as God’s children, the traditions that belong to us; for instance, the Lord’s Supper, the priesthood of all believers, see 1 Cor. 11. 2; 2 Thess. 2. 15?
It is no surprise that the Anakim were present at Hebron – Satan always contests what is of value to God, seeking to rob God and His people, Num. 13. 31, 33.
Caleb completely captures Hebron,his inheritance, in marked contrast to the eleven tribes, see Judges 1, where we see failure through compromise. He who follows fully the Lord enters fully into his inheritance. If we sow to the Spirit we shall of the Spirit reap, Gal. 6. 8.
Caleb has something to give, something which has cost him, land (yet to be possessed). He also has a fine daughter. He sets a task for a prospective son-in-law; the taking of Kirjath-sephar will secure her, 15.16. Othniel doubtless looked at Achsah and the enemy at Kirjath-sepher, one attractive, one dangerous. How long did he waver? Only as long perhaps as it took to recall that a short while ago, Achsah’s father had himself risked his life in similar fashion, v. 14. Caleb’s exploits are an inspiration to Othniel; he was not asking anything he had not done himself. Caleb has an example to give. We may compare Paul’s words, ‘You know’ (their having been witnesses), e.g. Acts 20. 18, 34; 1 Thess. 2. 1-2, 9-11; and see 2 Tim. 3. 10-12. Actions reinforce words, and example is so important.
