The book of Joshua details the division of the Promised Land among the twelve tribes of Israel. Joshua 16 specifically focuses on the inheritance given to the descendants of Joseph—Ephraim and Manasseh. This passage is rich with prophetic imagery that points to Jesus as our true inheritance and the source of lasting fruitfulness.
As we explore Joshua 16 in light of the New Testament, we see that Joseph’s portion foreshadows Christ’s role as the true Vine (John 15:5). Jesus is the One in whom our spiritual inheritance is secured, and through Him, we bear fruit that remains.
1. Joseph’s Inheritance and Its Spiritual Meaning
Joshua 16 describes how the land was allotted to the two tribes descended from Joseph: Ephraim and the half-tribe of Manasseh. This portion of land was among the most fertile and strategically significant regions in Israel.
Joseph had received a double portion among the tribes (Genesis 48:5-6) as a blessing from his father, Jacob. This reflected his unique role in Egypt, where he was exalted to save his family during famine (Genesis 41:41-57). In this way, Joseph became a type of Christ—rejected by his brothers, yet ultimately raised up to bring salvation.
A Greater Inheritance in Christ
Joseph’s inheritance in Canaan was a picture of something greater—our inheritance in Christ. Just as Ephraim and Manasseh received a land filled with abundance, believers in Jesus receive “every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places” (Ephesians 1:3). Our inheritance is not merely land, but eternal life and a place in God’s kingdom.
“And if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ” (Romans 8:17).
Through Jesus, we have an inheritance that is “imperishable, undefiled, and unfading” (1 Peter 1:4). This is the fulfillment of what Joseph’s descendants received in part.
2. Jesus, the True Vine and the Source of Fruitfulness
Joseph’s name means “God will add” or “increase,” which is fitting because his lineage, especially through Ephraim, was known for fruitfulness (Genesis 49:22). His descendants occupied some of the most fertile regions in Israel, reflecting the abundant life that God desires for His people.
Jesus takes this imagery even further when He declares:
“I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5)
A Life Connected to Christ
Joseph’s land was a picture of physical abundance, but Jesus offers a far greater spiritual abundance. Just as a vine provides life to its branches, Christ provides life to all who abide in Him.
This means that:
- True fruitfulness comes from abiding in Christ. Without Him, we can accomplish nothing of eternal value.
- Spiritual increase comes not by human effort but by staying connected to the Vine.
- Our inheritance in Christ is not just about receiving blessings but about producing fruit that glorifies God.
Through Jesus, our lives bear fruit in the form of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). Just as Ephraim and Manasseh thrived in the land given to them, we thrive spiritually when we remain in Jesus.
3. The Danger of Failing to Possess the Inheritance Fully
Although Joseph’s descendants received an incredible inheritance, Joshua 16:10 reveals a failure:
“However, they did not drive out the Canaanites who lived in Gezer; so the Canaanites live in the midst of Ephraim to this day and have become forced laborers.”
This compromise eventually led to spiritual decline, as foreign influences weakened Israel’s faithfulness to God. This serves as a warning for believers today.
A Call to Fully Possess Our Inheritance in Christ
Many believers stop short of fully embracing their inheritance in Christ. They accept salvation but do not fully surrender to Jesus as Lord. Just as Ephraim and Manasseh failed to drive out all opposition, we often allow sin, doubt, or worldly distractions to remain in our hearts.
Jesus calls us to a complete inheritance—one where He reigns fully in our lives. To do this, we must:
- Abide in Him daily through prayer and His Word.
- Remove compromises that hinder our faith (Hebrews 12:1).
- Walk in the Spirit so that our lives reflect His fruit (Galatians 5:16).
When we fully embrace Christ as our inheritance, we experience His power, joy, and victory in our lives.
4. Jesus as Our Eternal Portion
Psalm 16:5 says:
“The Lord is my chosen portion and my cup; you hold my lot.”
While Ephraim and Manasseh received a rich portion in the Promised Land, the greatest portion we can have is Jesus Himself. Our true inheritance is not in land, wealth, or earthly blessings—it is in knowing and abiding in Christ forever.
This is the fulfillment of what Joseph’s inheritance pointed to. Jesus is our portion, our fruitful vine, and the One who gives us eternal increase.
A Final Call to Abide in Christ
If we desire to live fruitful lives, we must remain connected to the Vine. Just as Joseph’s descendants were blessed with abundance, we too are invited to walk in the fullness of Christ’s blessings.
Let us not settle for a partial inheritance. Instead, let us fully embrace Jesus as our true portion, our source of life, and our eternal inheritance.
Conclusion
Joshua 16 reminds us of the rich inheritance given to Joseph’s line, but it ultimately points us to Jesus—the true Vine and our eternal portion. As believers, our greatest inheritance is not in earthly blessings but in a life deeply connected to Christ.
Are you abiding in the Vine? Are you fully walking in your inheritance in Christ?
The call is clear: Remain in Him, bear much fruit, and inherit the fullness of His promises.
