The archaeological continuity between the Canaanite and Israelite settlements in the highlands might also support the idea that many Canaanites decided to join the Israelites. Lawson Stone suggests that the call to cast off idols in Joshua 24 would have been directed primarily at these Canaanites who joined Israel.30 Richard Swinburne even says that the destruction of the Canaanites provided a good opportunity for them: For example, of course God loves the Canaanites; but it is good for them, as