Joshua's Farewell and Covenant Renewal
This is the final section of the book of Joshua.
His leadership of the people began in approximately 1406 B.C. and he now finds himself near the end of his life in 1375 B.C., some 30 years later.
He has led the Israelites into the Promised Land:
- First with the miraculous crossing of the Jordan river where God separated the waters to allow the people to cross on dry land w/ the priests holding the ark in the middle of the river while the people passed.
- He then led the people in the miraculous defeat of the main city of Jericho.
- We read of the people's first defeat at the city of Ai and how Joshua learned the important lesson of seeking God in all things.
- Although it took place over a decade, the Bible summarizes the many military conquests Joshua led in order to subdue many of the Canaanite tribes in the south and northern parts of the country.
- Finally, there was the long and complex work of proper division and allotment of territory according to God's plan and the needs of each of the tribes. In addition to this work, there was also the task of distributing the 48 Levite cities, the 6 cities of refuge, as well as the gift to both Caleb and Joshua himself from God for their service.
Anyone who has purchased a tract of land knows the amount of work it requires to establish boundaries etc. Imagine an entire country with multiple groups?
This brings us to our final lesson where we find Joshua's farewell speech and a renewal of the covenant between God and His people as the nation will enter a new phase of their history where God will provide different judges who will lead the people especially during times of crisis, usually caused by their own sinfulness and unfaithfulness.
I. Return of the Tribes – Joshua 22:1-9
After the land west of the Jordan River had been conquered and allotted to the tribes of Israel, Joshua 22:1-9 describes the return of the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh to their territories east of the Jordan. These tribes had received their inheritance earlier, during the time of Moses, with the understanding that they would help the other tribes in conquering the land west of the Jordan.
Key Events
Joshua's Address to the Eastern Tribes
Joshua summoned the men of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh, acknowledging their faithfulness in fulfilling their commitment to fight alongside their fellow Israelites. They had remained with the other tribes for an extended period until the conquest was complete.
Commendation and Blessing
Joshua praised these tribes for their obedience to God's command and their loyalty to the rest of Israel. He blessed them before sending them back to their homes, instructing them to continue to observe God's laws and to remain faithful to the Lord in their own lands.
Return with Riches
The tribes returned to their territories east of the Jordan with great wealth—livestock, silver, gold, bronze, iron, and clothing—obtained from the plunder of the defeated enemies. Joshua instructed them to share this wealth with their fellow tribesmen who had stayed behind in the east.
Significance in the Overall Settlement of the Promised Land
Fulfillment of a Commitment
The return of these tribes marked the fulfillment of a promise they had made to Moses and the rest of Israel (Numbers 32:16-32). Their willingness to help conquer the land west of the Jordan before returning home ensured unity among the tribes and demonstrated their commitment to the collective well-being of the nation.
Reaffirmation of National Unity
Although these tribes were settling east of the Jordan, their involvement in the conquest and Joshua's blessing reinforced the idea that they were an integral part of the nation of Israel. This move emphasized the unity of the twelve tribes despite geographical separation.
Continuation of Covenant Faithfulness
Joshua's reminder to these tribes to remain faithful to God's laws, even after returning to their own lands, underscores the importance of covenant faithfulness for all of Israel, regardless of their location. This was crucial for maintaining the spiritual and moral integrity of the nation as they settled in the Promised Land.
Completion of the Conquest Phase
The return of these tribes signaled the end of the conquest phase and the beginning of the settlement period. With the warriors returning to their families, the focus shifted from military campaigns to establishing stable, God-honoring communities in the territories that God had promised to the descendants of Abraham.
This event highlights the importance of unity, obedience, and faithfulness in the collective journey of the Israelites as they took possession of the Promised Land. It also serves as a reminder of the shared responsibility among the tribes to support each other in fulfilling God's promises.
II. The Offensive Altar – 22:10–34
1. The Building of the Altar (Joshua 22:10)
After the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh returned to their lands east of the Jordan, they built a large and imposing altar near the Jordan River, at a site called Geliloth.
Purpose: Although their intention was not immediately clear to the other tribes, this altar was intended as a witness or memorial, not as a place for sacrifices.
2. The Misunderstanding Among the Tribes (Joshua 22:11-20)
The other tribes of Israel, particularly those west of the Jordan, heard about the construction of the altar and assumed that it was built to rival the altar of the Lord at the Tabernacle, which would constitute a serious breach of covenant law.
11And the sons of Israel heard it said, "Behold, the sons of Reuben and the sons of Gad and the half-tribe of Manasseh have built an altar at the frontier of the land of Canaan, in the region of the Jordan, on the side belonging to the sons of Israel." 12When the sons of Israel heard of it, the whole congregation of the sons of Israel gathered themselves at Shiloh to go up against them in war.
- Joshua 22:11-12
Assumption of Apostasy
The western tribes feared that the altar represented an act of rebellion against God, possibly indicating that the eastern tribes were establishing a separate place of worship, contrary to the law that sacrifices should only be made at the central sanctuary (Deuteronomy 12:4-14).
Decision to Confront
To prevent what they believed was a potential breach of the covenant, the western tribes prepared for war against Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh. However, before taking military action, they decided to send a delegation to investigate and address the situation diplomatically (Joshua 22:13-14).
3. The Diplomatic Resolution (Joshua 22:15-31)
The delegation, led by Phinehas, the son of Eleazar the priest, and ten chiefs from the other tribes, confronted the eastern tribes, expressing their concern that the altar represented a rebellion against God (Joshua 22:15-16).
"Thus says the whole congregation of the Lord, 'What is this unfaithful act which you have committed against the God of Israel, turning away from following the Lord this day, by building yourselves an altar, to rebel against the Lord this day?
- Joshua 22:16
Explanation by the Eastern Tribes
The eastern tribes explained that their intention in building the altar was not for sacrifices or offerings, but rather as a witness or memorial to ensure that future generations would recognize their shared heritage and allegiance to the Lord (Joshua 22:21-29).
24But truly we have done this out of concern, for a reason, saying, 'In time to come your sons may say to our sons, "What have you to do with the Lord, the God of Israel? 25For the Lord has made the Jordan a border between us and you, you sons of Reuben and sons of Gad; you have no portion in the Lord." So your sons may make our sons stop fearing the Lord.'
- Joshua 22:24-25
Resolution
Upon hearing this explanation, Phinehas and the delegation were relieved and recognized the sincerity of the eastern tribes. They acknowledged that the altar was not intended for unauthorized sacrifices but was meant as a symbol of unity and shared faith in the God of Israel.
30So when Phinehas the priest and the leaders of the congregation, even the heads of the families of Israel who were with him, heard the words which the sons of Reuben and the sons of Gad and the sons of Manasseh spoke, it pleased them. 31And Phinehas the son of Eleazar the priest said to the sons of Reuben and to the sons of Gad and to the sons of Manasseh, "Today we know that the Lord is in our midst, because you have not committed this unfaithful act against the Lord; now you have delivered the sons of Israel from the hand of the Lord."
- Joshua 22:30-31
4. The Larger Issues at Play
Unity and Covenant Faithfulness
The event highlights the importance of maintaining unity among the tribes of Israel and ensuring that all actions align with the covenant established with God. The initial fear of the western tribes was rooted in the desire to avoid God's wrath, as had happened previously with the sin of Peor (Numbers 25) and Achan's sin (Joshua 7).
Communication and Understanding
The resolution of the conflict underscores the importance of clear communication and seeking understanding before taking drastic actions. The willingness of the western tribes to investigate before declaring war and the open dialogue between the two sides prevented unnecessary bloodshed.
Witness and Remembrance
The altar, named "Witness" (Joshua 22:34), served as a reminder of the shared faith and covenant relationship among all the tribes, despite geographical separation. It symbolized the ongoing connection between the eastern and western tribes and their common worship of the one true God.
Conclusion
The events in Joshua 22:10-34 reveal the potential for misunderstandings among God's people and the importance of addressing concerns with wisdom and patience. The successful resolution of the conflict through dialogue and mutual respect prevented division and preserved the unity of the nation of Israel under God's covenant. The episode serves as a lesson in the value of careful communication, the pursuit of peace, and the commitment to shared faith.
III. Joshua's Final Address to the People – 23:1-16
In Joshua chapter 23, as Joshua neared the end of his life, he gathered all the leaders of Israel—elders, heads of tribes, judges, and officers—to deliver a final address. This speech was intended to remind the Israelites of their covenant with God and to encourage them to remain faithful in their commitment to Him. Joshua's words reflected his deep concern for the spiritual well-being of the nation after his death.
Three of the Most Significant Points in Joshua's Address:
1. Reminder of God's Faithfulness (Joshua 23:3-5)
Point: Joshua reminded the Israelites of all that God had done for them, including the victories He had given them over their enemies and the land they had received as their inheritance. He emphasized that it was God who fought for Israel and fulfilled His promises to give them the land of Canaan.
Significance: This point underscores the importance of recognizing and remembering God's faithfulness as the foundation for continued obedience and trust in Him.
2. Exhortation to Obey the Law and Avoid Idolatry (Joshua 23:6-8)
Point: Joshua urged the Israelites to be very strong and careful to obey all that is written in the Book of the Law of Moses. He specifically warned them not to associate with the remaining Canaanite nations or adopt their idolatrous practices, but to cling to the Lord their God.
Significance: This point highlights the centrality of the Law in guiding the Israelites' conduct and the danger of idolatry, which could lead them away from God and bring destruction upon them.
3. Warning of Consequences for Disobedience (Joshua 23:12-13, Joshua 23:15-16)
Point: Joshua warned that if the Israelites turned away from God and served other gods, the Lord would no longer drive out the remaining nations before them, and those nations would become snares and traps for Israel. He also reminded them that just as God had fulfilled His promises to bless them, He would also bring upon them all the curses if they broke the covenant.
Significance: This point serves as a solemn reminder of the seriousness of covenant faithfulness and the consequences of turning away from God.
Similarities Between Joshua's Address and Moses' Final Address in Deuteronomy 31
1. Both Leaders Emphasize God's Faithfulness:
- Moses: In Deuteronomy 31:3-6, Moses reminded the Israelites that the Lord would go before them and give them victory over their enemies, just as He had done in the past.
- Joshua: Similarly, Joshua 23:3-5 recounts how God fought for Israel and fulfilled His promises, encouraging the people to continue trusting in Him.
2. Both Leaders Urge Obedience to the Law:
- Moses: Moses emphasized the importance of obeying the Law of God, instructing the people to read it regularly and to teach it to their children (Deuteronomy 31:12-13).
- Joshua: Joshua also stressed the importance of adhering to the Law of Moses, warning against deviating from it or adopting the practices of the surrounding nations (Joshua 23:6-8).
3. Both Leaders Warn of the Consequences of Disobedience:
- Moses: In Deuteronomy 31:16-18, Moses predicted that Israel would turn away from God and warned that this would lead to God's anger and the nation's suffering.
- Joshua: Joshua echoed this warning, stating that disobedience would lead to God withdrawing His protection and allowing the remaining nations to be a source of trouble for Israel (Joshua 23:12-13, Joshua 23:15-16).
Conclusion
Joshua's final address in Joshua 23 parallels Moses' final address in Deuteronomy 31 in its emphasis on God's faithfulness, the necessity of obedience to the Law, and the dire consequences of turning away from God. Both speeches serve as powerful reminders to Israel of the importance of maintaining their covenant relationship with God as they continue to live in the Promised Land. These themes underscore the ongoing need for faithfulness and vigilance in the life of the nation, even as leadership transitions from one generation to the next.
IV. Joshua Reviews Israel's History – Joshua 24:1-13
In Joshua 24:1-13, Joshua gathers all the tribes of Israel at Shechem for a covenant renewal ceremony. During this assembly, he reviews Israel's history from the time of their ancestors, beginning with Abraham, through the Exodus, and up to the conquest of Canaan. This recounting serves several key purposes:
1. Reaffirmation of God's Faithfulness
Purpose: The review of Israel's history serves to reaffirm God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to the people of Israel. By recounting the events, Joshua emphasizes that it was God who called Abraham, delivered the Israelites from Egypt, guided them through the wilderness, and gave them victory over their enemies in Canaan.
Explanation: This reminder was crucial as the people were now settled in the Promised Land and needed to recognize that their success and survival were solely due to God's intervention and grace, not their own strength or merit.
2. Call to Covenant Loyalty
Purpose: Joshua's historical review is a call to covenant loyalty. By recounting how God had been faithful and consistent in His actions, Joshua challenges the Israelites to respond with similar faithfulness by serving and obeying God alone.
Explanation: This review sets the stage for the subsequent covenant renewal in which the people are called to commit themselves to exclusive worship of the Lord, rejecting any form of idolatry or allegiance to other gods.
3. Reminder of God's Sovereignty and Initiative
Purpose: The review highlights that it was God who initiated and accomplished everything in Israel's history. From choosing Abraham and leading him to Canaan, to bringing Israel out of Egypt and giving them victory over the Canaanite nations, it was all God's doing.
Explanation: This underscores the idea that Israel's relationship with God is based on His grace and sovereign choice, rather than any inherent worthiness in the people themselves. This understanding is meant to foster humility and dependence on God.
Differences or Significant Facts Compared to Moses' Recounting in Deuteronomy
Joshua's recounting of Israel's history in Joshua 24:1-13 is similar in many ways to Moses' review of Israel's history in the book of Deuteronomy, particularly in Deuteronomy chapters 1-11. However, there are some differences and points of emphasis in Joshua's recounting:
A. Focus on God's Actions Rather Than Israel's Failures
Difference: While Moses' recounting in Deuteronomy often includes reminders of Israel's failures, disobedience, and the consequences of their actions (e.g., the golden calf, the rebellion of the spies), Joshua's recounting in Joshua 24:1-13 is more focused on God's continuous and unbroken acts of deliverance and provision.
Explanation: This emphasis on God's positive actions serves to strengthen the argument that Israel owes its allegiance to God alone, as He has been consistently faithful even when they were not.
B. Mention of Abraham's Pagan Background
1. Highlighting God's Sovereign Grace and Initiative
Purpose: By mentioning that Abraham came from a background of idol worship, Joshua emphasizes that it was solely by God's sovereign grace and initiative that Abraham was called to a new life and a covenant relationship with God.
Explanation: This highlights the fact that God chose Abraham not because of his righteousness or prior relationship with God, but purely out of God's gracious will. It underscores the idea that Israel's identity as God's chosen people is rooted in God's initiative, not in their own merits or background.
2. Illustrating the Radical Nature of the Covenant Relationship
Purpose: Joshua's mention of Abraham's pagan origins illustrates the radical transformation that God brought about in Abraham's life. Abraham's shift from paganism to monotheism represents the kind of complete and total allegiance to God that Joshua is calling the Israelites to uphold.
Explanation: This serves as a powerful reminder to the Israelites that they are called to a distinct and exclusive relationship with God, one that requires leaving behind any form of idolatry or allegiance to other gods, just as Abraham left behind his family's pagan practices.
3. Encouraging Israel to Reject Idolatry
Purpose: By recalling Abraham's departure from a background of idol worship, Joshua is indirectly urging the Israelites to reject any lingering tendencies toward idolatry in their own lives.
Explanation: Just as Abraham was called out of idolatry to serve the one true God, the Israelites are reminded that they, too, must fully commit to worshiping God alone, rejecting the idols and false gods that still existed among the surrounding nations.
4. Reinforcing the Theme of God's Faithfulness Across Generations
Purpose: The reference to Abraham's pagan background also serves to demonstrate God's faithfulness in maintaining the covenant across generations, beginning with Abraham.
Explanation: Despite Abraham's origins, God chose him, established a covenant with him, and fulfilled His promises through Isaac and Jacob, leading to the formation of the nation of Israel. This reinforces the idea that God's faithfulness transcends human shortcomings and backgrounds – anyone can come to God.
V. The Choice – 24:14-33
In Joshua 24:14-28, Joshua delivers his final and most compelling exhortation to the people of Israel, urging them to remain faithful to the Lord. This passage is a high point in Israel's history, marking a decisive moment of covenant renewal and commitment to God.
Key Elements of Joshua's Final Exhortation:
1. Call to Exclusive Worship of the Lord (Joshua 24:14-15)
Joshua's Charge: Joshua begins by commanding the Israelites to "fear the Lord and serve him with all faithfulness." He urges them to throw away the gods their ancestors worshiped beyond the Euphrates River and in Egypt, and to serve the Lord alone.
The Choice: Joshua presents a stark choice to the people: they must choose whom they will serve—whether the gods their ancestors served, the gods of the Amorites, or the Lord. Joshua famously declares, "But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord" (Joshua 24:15).
2. The People's Response (Joshua 24:16-18)
Commitment to the Lord: The people respond decisively, rejecting the idea of serving other gods and affirming their commitment to the Lord. They recount how the Lord delivered them from Egypt, protected them throughout their journey, and gave them the land they now possess. They declare, "We too will serve the Lord, because he is our God" (Joshua 24:18).
3. Warning of the Seriousness of the Covenant (Joshua 24:19-20)
Joshua's Caution: Joshua warns the people that serving the Lord is not a light matter, as He is a holy and jealous God. He emphasizes that if they forsake the Lord and serve other gods, God will bring disaster upon them, despite all the good He has done for them.
The People's Reaffirmation: Despite the warning, the people insist that they will serve the Lord, reaffirming their commitment to the covenant (Joshua 24:21).
4. Covenant Renewal and Establishment of a Witness (Joshua 24:22-27)
Covenant Established: Joshua formally establishes the covenant with the people that day, making statutes and ordinances for them at Shechem. He records these words in the Book of the Law of God and sets up a large stone as a witness to the covenant, declaring that it has "heard" all that the Lord has said.
Joshua's Final Words: Joshua reminds the people that this stone will stand as a witness against them if they are unfaithful to their commitment to the Lord.
Comparison to Other High Points in Israel's History
1. The Covenant at Mount Sinai (Exodus 19-24)
- Similarities: Like the covenant renewal at Shechem, the covenant at Mount Sinai was a foundational moment where the people committed themselves to obeying the Lord and His commandments. Both events involved a formal ceremony, a declaration of loyalty to God, and the establishment of laws.
- Differences: While the covenant at Sinai marked the beginning of Israel as a nation under God's law, the covenant at Shechem reaffirmed that commitment after the conquest of the Promised Land. The Shechem renewal emphasized the choice and responsibility of the people to maintain their faithfulness.
2. Moses' Final Address (Deuteronomy 29-30)
- Similarities: Both Moses and Joshua delivered farewell addresses that focused on covenant loyalty and the consequences of disobedience. Each leader challenged the people to choose between life and death, blessing and curse, based on their obedience to the Lord.
- Differences: Moses' address was given before entering the Promised Land, whereas Joshua's address took place after the land had been conquered and divided. Joshua's speech carries the weight of a leader who has seen God's promises fulfilled and now calls the people to continue in that faithfulness.
3. The Reaffirmation at Mount Ebal (Joshua 8:30-35)
- Similarities: Earlier in Joshua's leadership, the people had already reaffirmed their commitment to the covenant at Mount Ebal, following the victories at Jericho and Ai. This included the reading of the law and the setting up of stones as a witness.
- Differences: The covenant renewal at Shechem is more personal and direct, as Joshua challenges the people to make a conscious choice to serve the Lord, knowing the history of God's faithfulness and the dangers of idolatry.
VI. Joshua's Death and Its Aftermath (Joshua 24:29-33)
Joshua's Death
After these events, Joshua, the servant of the Lord, died at the age of 110 and was buried in his allotted inheritance at Timnath Serah in the hill country of Ephraim (Joshua 24:29-30).
Significance of His Leadership
Joshua's death marked the end of an era of strong, divinely appointed leadership. His life and leadership were characterized by faithfulness to God, and under his guidance, Israel remained obedient and faithful.
The Aftermath
Following Joshua's death, Israel continued to serve the Lord throughout the lifetime of the elders who outlived him and had experienced all the works the Lord had done for Israel (Joshua 24:31). This period of faithfulness, however, set the stage for the challenges Israel would face in the generations to come, as later books of the Bible (such as Judges) detail the cycles of faithfulness and disobedience that followed Joshua's era.
Conclusion
Joshua's final words in Joshua 24:14-28 represent a climactic moment in Israel's history, where the people reaffirm their commitment to the covenant with God. This moment echoes previous high points, such as the covenant at Sinai and Moses' final address, but it also stands out as a unique and personal challenge to the nation. Joshua's death and the subsequent period of faithfulness highlight the enduring influence of his leadership, even as it foreshadows the challenges that Israel would face without such strong, centralized guidance.
Lesson
The entire book of Joshua illustrates the overarching lesson that God is faithful to His promises, and His people are called to respond with courageous obedience. Just as the Israelites were called to trust God and follow His commands to inherit the Promised Land, believers today are called to trust in God's promises and live in obedient faith, confident that God will lead them through the challenges they face and bring them to the promised heavenly Kingdom.