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Joshua's Farewell Address To The People- Commit!!!
Contributed by David Wilson on May 13, 2011 (message contributor)
Summary: Joshua, nearing the end of his ministry makes a passionate plea for REAL commitment.
An Outline of Joshua’s Farewell speech to the People of Israel
Joshua 24:1-13
Verses 1-13
Joshua recites the history of Israel from Abraham’s call to the conquest of Canaan.
The theme of Joshua’s message is a call to continue serving God—remembering God’s goodness should have the effect of helping His people remain faithful.
Verses 14-15
A direct appeal for the people to service God.
The appeal involved:
A call to make a choice
A strong reminder to reject idolatry
A personal commitment for Joshua and his family
Verses 16-18
The people’s public confession of God and spoken commitment to service Him
Verses 19-20
Joshua declares the consequences of breaking the covenant with God.
Includes a reminder - just as God is faithful in keeping His word to provide for and to protect Israel- He would also be faithful to judge Israel.
Verses 24-27
The commitment ceremony is described.
The people make a public verbal commitment.
A monument is created to help the people remember their commitment.