Joshua 23:7

So you are not to associate with these nations that remain among you. You must not call on the names of their gods or swear by them, and you must not serve them or bow down to them.

Study Bible

So that you do not associate
The Hebrew root for "associate" is "בּוֹא" (bo), which means to come in, enter, or go. In this context, it implies forming alliances or mingling with the surrounding nations. Historically, Israel was called to be a distinct people, set apart for God’s purposes. Associating with other nations often led to adopting their practices, which could lead Israel away from their covenant with God. This call to separation underscores the importance of maintaining spiritual purity and allegiance to God alone.

with these nations
The term "nations" refers to the various Canaanite tribes that remained in the land. These nations were known for their idolatrous practices and moral corruption. The historical context reveals that these nations were often a snare to Israel, tempting them to abandon their unique identity as God’s chosen people. The command to avoid association with these nations is a reminder of the dangers of compromising with worldly influences.

that remain among you
This phrase highlights the incomplete conquest of the Promised Land. Despite God’s command to drive out the inhabitants, some Canaanite nations remained. This incomplete obedience posed a continual threat to Israel’s faithfulness. Spiritually, it serves as a metaphor for the remnants of sin or worldly influence that believers must continually guard against in their lives.

Do not invoke the names of their gods
The Hebrew word for "invoke" is "זָכַר" (zakar), meaning to remember or mention. Invoking the names of foreign gods was more than just speaking; it implied acknowledging their power or authority. In ancient Near Eastern culture, names held significant power and invoking a god’s name was an act of worship or allegiance. This command is a call to exclusive devotion to Yahweh, rejecting any acknowledgment of other deities.

or swear by them
Swearing by a god was a common practice in ancient times, signifying trust or reliance on that deity. The prohibition against swearing by other gods emphasizes the need for Israel to place their trust solely in Yahweh. It reflects the first commandment, which calls for exclusive worship and allegiance to the one true God.

Do not serve them
The Hebrew word for "serve" is "עָבַד" (avad), which means to work or worship. Serving other gods involved participating in their rituals and practices. This command is a direct call to reject idolatry in all its forms. Historically, Israel’s service to other gods often led to their downfall and judgment. It serves as a warning to remain faithful in worship and service to God alone.

or bow down to them
Bowing down is an act of worship and submission. The physical act of bowing represented a heart posture of reverence and allegiance. In the ancient world, bowing to an idol was a declaration of loyalty. This command reinforces the need for Israel to maintain their worship and submission to Yahweh alone, avoiding the spiritual adultery of idol worship. It is a call to wholehearted devotion and the rejection of any form of spiritual compromise.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The leader of Israel after Moses, who is delivering his farewell address to the Israelites, urging them to remain faithful to God.

2. Israelites
The chosen people of God, who have settled in the Promised Land but are surrounded by pagan nations.

3. Canaanite Nations
The surrounding nations with whom the Israelites are warned not to associate, as they worship false gods.

4. Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which God promised to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

5. Pagan Gods
The false deities worshiped by the Canaanite nations, which the Israelites are warned against.

Teaching Points

Faithfulness to God
The Israelites are reminded to remain faithful to God alone, avoiding any form of idolatry or syncretism.

Separation from Worldly Influences
Just as the Israelites were to avoid pagan practices, Christians today are called to be in the world but not of it, maintaining spiritual purity.

The Power of Names
Invoking the names of other gods signifies allegiance; Christians are to call upon the name of the Lord alone.

Covenant Loyalty
The Israelites' relationship with God was based on a covenant that required exclusive worship, a principle that applies to the New Covenant in Christ.

Guarding Against Compromise
The warning against serving or bowing to other gods serves as a reminder to guard against compromising one's faith.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joshua 23:7 reflect the importance of exclusive worship in the life of a believer?

2. In what ways can Christians today avoid "associating" with modern-day idols or false beliefs?

3. How does the command to not invoke the names of other gods apply to our speech and actions in contemporary society?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to ensure we are not compromising our faith in a pluralistic world?

5. How do the warnings in Joshua 23:7 relate to the New Testament teachings on being separate from worldly influences?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 23:13
This verse also warns the Israelites not to mention the names of other gods, emphasizing the importance of exclusive worship of Yahweh.

Deuteronomy 6:14
Reinforces the command not to follow other gods, highlighting the covenant relationship between God and Israel.

1 Kings 18:21
Elijah challenges the Israelites to choose between Yahweh and Baal, illustrating the ongoing struggle against idolatry.

2 Corinthians 6:14-17
Paul advises Christians not to be unequally yoked with unbelievers, echoing the call to separate from pagan influences.