Joshua 24: Joshua’s Death

Introduction: Joshua 24 is an epochal chapter in the Old Testament of the Bible, as it captures the last words of Joshua, a pivotal figure in the Israelites’ journey from Egypt to the Promised Land. This chapter offers an enriching insight into the covenant renewal ceremony where Joshua addresses the people, reiterating their history and provoking their commitment to serve God. As we delve into the wisdom embedded in Joshua 24, we will explore its themes, implications, and cross-references to other biblical passages.

I. Joshua 24:1-13 – Recollection of Israel’s History
Joshua begins by recalling Israel’s history, from God’s call to Abraham to their deliverance from Egypt and the conquest of the Promised Land. This section emphasizes God’s providential guidance throughout Israel’s history. For example, Joshua mentions God’s promise to Abraham about multiplying his descendants as stars in the sky in Genesis 15:5, and God’s deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt, as recorded in Exodus 14:29-30.

II. Joshua 24:14-15 – Call for Exclusive Devotion to God
Joshua urges the Israelites to serve God alone and abandon the gods of their forefathers and the Amorites. He presents them with a choice, famously stating, “As for me and my household, we will serve the LORD” (Joshua 24:15). This echoes the first commandment in Exodus 20:3, “You shall have no other gods before me,” underscoring the need for total devotion to God.

III. Joshua 24:16-18 – Israel’s Affirmation of Loyalty to God
In response to Joshua’s call, the people pledge their allegiance to God, remembering His mighty works that brought them out of Egypt and into the Promised Land. This mirrors the Israelites’ affirmation of faith after crossing the Red Sea in Exodus 14:31, “And when the Israelites saw the mighty hand of the LORD displayed against the Egyptians, the people feared the LORD and put their trust in him.”

IV. Joshua 24:19 – God’s Holiness and Jealousy
Joshua warns the people that God is a holy and jealous God who will not forgive their rebellion and sins if they forsake Him (Exodus 34:14). This is a sobering reminder of God’s righteousness and the seriousness of the covenant they’re entering into.

V. Joshua 24:20–24 – Renewal of the Covenant
Despite Joshua’s warnings, the people affirm their commitment to serving God. Joshua then renews the covenant between the Israelites and God, making decrees and laws and recording them in the Book of the Law of God (Deuteronomy 31:24-26). This ceremony underscores the mutual commitment between God and His people and the importance of obedience to God’s laws.

VI. Joshua 24:25-28 – The Witness Stone
Joshua concludes the ceremony by setting up a stone as a witness to the covenant, echoing Jacob’s action in Genesis 31:45-52. The stone serves as a physical reminder of the Israelites’ covenant with God.

VII. Joshua 24:29-33 – Joshua’s Death and Israel’s Faithfulness
Finally, Joshua’s death is recorded, along with the burial of Joseph’s bones brought from Egypt (Genesis 50:25; Exodus 13:19), signifying the fulfillment of God’s promise to Abraham. The chapter ends noting the faithfulness of the generation who witnessed God’s wonders.

Conclusion: Unfolding the wisdom of Joshua 24 unveils a profound understanding of God’s faithfulness, the importance of exclusive devotion to Him, and the serious nature of the covenantal relationship between God and His people. The chapter is a testament to Joshua’s leadership and his heart for guiding the Israelites towards unwavering commitment to God. As we embrace the lessons from Joshua 24, we are inspired to renew our personal commitment to serve God faithfully, acknowledging His constant guidance throughout our life’s journey.