Bible moment
The Bible moment
Numbers 13:26–33 describes the spies returning after exploring Canaan for forty days. They show the people grapes, pomegranates, and figs and report that the land is fruitful. Ten spies focus on the strong inhabitants and fortified cities, saying Israel cannot overcome them. Caleb responds by urging the people to go up and take the land. The passage presents two different responses: fearful reports from ten spies and Caleb’s courageous trust. The figures described by the spies should not be treated as monsters, and this scene does not show combat. Joshua joins Caleb’s faithful appeal in the following verses, Numbers 14:1–9. The LORD is central to the Israelites’ decision, and the story later shows consequences for unbelief, while Caleb and Joshua remain excepted from the judgment.
Look closely
What children can notice
Joshua, Caleb, and the other spies stand before Moses and the gathered Israelites as the report about Canaan is shared. A large cluster of grapes, pomegranates, and figs is displayed, while Caleb confidently urges the people to trust God and enter the fruitful land. In the background, fortified cities and distant, non-threatening large figures represent the fearful report without showing violence.
Talk together
Talk about it
- What made Caleb’s report different from the ten spies’ report?
- How can you choose trust when others are afraid?
For families, church, and class
Use this page
Use this page to introduce Numbers 13–14 in a family, church, Sunday school, classroom, or homeschool setting. Point out the fruit as evidence of the land’s goodness and compare the two reports gently. Emphasize courageous faith without glorifying conflict, and explain fearful or difficult parts non-graphically. Invite children to discuss trusting the LORD and obeying his direction.
Source note
From this passage
Numbers 13:26–33 · The Twelve Spies
Joshua, Caleb, and the other spies stand before Moses and the gathered Israelites as the report about Canaan is shared. A large cluster of grapes, pomegranates, and figs is displayed, while Caleb confidently urges the people to trust God and enter the fruitful land. In the background, fortified cities and distant, non-threatening large figures represent the fearful report without showing violence.
