Scripture

By Olivia Saunders

Scripture Lesson Text: Joshua 24:1, 14-24
Related Scriptures: Exodus 19: 7-8; Joshua 8:30-35; 24:2-13; Luke 14: 25-35

We have all heard the scripture, “choose this day whom you will serve”.(Joshua 24:15). In this lesson Joshua is very clear on the people that he led after Moses dies and is not unclear of their actions and behaviors. He has witnessed first hand how they act in the blink of an eye when they feel that God is not moving fast enough for them or in the way they would like. He not only inquired of the people of their decision but the elders, priests and officers had to answer as well.

There are similarities in the related scriptures. In Exodus 19: 7-8, Moses acted as a priest and the people are challenged to receive the covenant again. God spoke audibly so everyone would know that it was God speaking to Moses. We see in verses, Joshua 8: 30-35, there is a fulfillment of Deuteronomy 27,28. The Lord had told Israel when they came to the Promised Land, go the mountains, build an altar, sacrifice to the Lord, and read the law.

This was not just an Old Testament decision, but Jesus also challenged the people further. In Luke 14:27, Jesus said that we have to carry our own cross and follow Him. Every day we are to make a conscious effort to choose the pathway that God has set before us. Moses, Joshua and so many others set the blueprint of what to choose when one says yes to God. We can stand firm on the decision to live for God and do it with great joy.

Synopsis

By Janice Hall

Joshua summoned an assembly at Shechem to confirm Israel’s covenant relationship with God. Shechem was located a few miles northwest of Shiloh. This was where God first promised Canaan to Abraham ( Genesis 12: 6-7). Joshua first spoke to the rulers and then to all the people. The leaders and the people had a special responsibility to follow the Lord.

Joshua called the people to remember the faithfulness of God, who had brought them success and to renew their commitment. We find in Joshua 24: 15, the familiar verse..
“…choose you this day whom ye will serve…”. Before calling the Israelites to make a decision about serving gods, Joshua reviewed their history as a people. He spoke how God directed their ancestors and the generations (vs. 13). Joshua did not want the Israelites to rely on the gods of their ancestors, but to TRUST God for direction.

Joshua spoke of wanting to serve the Lord as the only path, leading to a life of peace.
Joshua urges the people before him to make a break with the gods that remain in their midst. Joshua took them at their word, calling them to be witnesses. “ And the people said unto Joshua, The Lord our God will we serve, and his voice will we obey.”(vs.24)

Practical Application

By Doug Smith

When we reflect on past blessings, we can be encouraged to continue to serve God faithfully. We have reminders of God’s love in the Bible and see examples of His unchanging love. We are cautious not to slip into quiet rebellion and going about life in our own way. But the time comes when we must choose who or what will control our lives. Once the choice to allow God’s Spirit to lead and guide us we are overwhelmed by His peace.

In taking a definite stand for the Lord, Joshua again displayed his spiritual leadership. Regardless of what others decide we must make our own commitment to God. The way we live shows others the strength of our commitment to serving God. It is easy to say we will follow God, but it is much more important to live like it.

To follow God requires releasing whatever gets in the way of worshipping Him. The idols of greed, wrong priorities, jealousies, and prejudice, must be eradicated so that a lifestyle of worship will overshadow all. “ God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.”(John 4:24) “Choose you this day whom you will serve”. (Joshua 24:15)