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Joshua 24 Commentary
by Brad Boyles
“Pastor” Joshua gives a great farewell sermon. Joshua was a great man of faith who led the people to trust and obey. His words and actions are timeless and still have significant relevance for our culture today.
It was faith that made the walls of Jericho fall down after the Israelites had marched around them for seven days.
Hebrews 11:30 GNB
In his sermon, Joshua gave a much-needed reminder. He reminded the people of God’s faithfulness. He brought their focus back to what’s really important. He recounted the history of everything the Lord had taken them through. He cast vision to what the future would look like if they continued to rely solely on God. He stirred up truth and propelled the people toward worship and thanksgiving.
Here’s the kicker – he had the reputation and the character to back these words up.
It’s a beautiful articulation of God receiving all the glory. Joshua didn’t sign off by recounting his own successes and accomplishments. He left them with the only words that could change a heart – the Word of God. He spoke to them exactly what God desired.
It is an incredible ending to this chapter. A line in the sand is drawn. Joshua issues an invitation, and he lays down the challenge. I don’t know what all of you will choose, but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord. Consider the implications of that statement. Joshua wasn’t just taking responsibility for himself. He understood the bigger picture. He knew that the way he lived his life would affect future generations!