Judges 2:21

I will no longer drive out before them any of the nations Joshua left when he died.

Study Bible

I will no longer
This phrase signifies a divine decision and a shift in God's approach towards the Israelites. The Hebrew root for "no longer" (לֹא עוֹד, lo od) indicates a cessation of action. Historically, this marks a pivotal moment where God decides to withdraw His direct intervention in the conquest of Canaan. It serves as a reminder of the conditional nature of God's promises, which often depend on the faithfulness and obedience of His people.

drive out
The Hebrew word used here is "יָרַשׁ" (yarash), which means to dispossess or to take possession. In the context of the Israelites, it refers to God's previous actions of removing the Canaanite nations to give the land to His chosen people. This phrase underscores the divine power and authority that had been actively working on behalf of Israel, and its cessation is a direct consequence of Israel's disobedience.

before them
This phrase indicates the presence and guidance of God in the Israelites' journey. The Hebrew preposition "מִפְּנֵי" (mipnei) suggests a position of leadership and protection. Historically, it reflects the times when God led Israel visibly, such as through the pillar of cloud and fire during the Exodus. The withdrawal of this divine leadership is a significant loss for the Israelites, emphasizing the importance of God's presence in achieving victory and success.

any of the nations
The term "nations" (גּוֹיִם, goyim) refers to the various Canaanite tribes that inhabited the Promised Land. These nations were often characterized by their idolatrous practices, which posed a spiritual threat to Israel. Theologically, this highlights the ongoing struggle between the people of God and the surrounding pagan cultures, a theme that resonates throughout the Old Testament.

Joshua left
Joshua, whose name in Hebrew (יְהוֹשֻׁעַ, Yehoshua) means "The Lord is salvation," was a central figure in leading Israel into the Promised Land. His leadership was marked by faithfulness and obedience to God. The mention of Joshua here serves as a contrast to the current state of Israel, which has strayed from the path of obedience that Joshua exemplified. It also marks the end of an era of conquest and the beginning of a period of testing for Israel.

when he died
The death of Joshua represents a significant transition for the Israelites. It marks the end of a period of strong, godly leadership and the beginning of a time when the tribes of Israel were expected to continue the conquest independently. This phrase serves as a reminder of the mortality of human leaders and the necessity for each generation to uphold the covenant with God. Historically, it sets the stage for the cyclical pattern of disobedience, oppression, repentance, and deliverance that characterizes the Book of Judges.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who is speaking in this verse, expressing His decision regarding the nations left in Canaan.

2. Joshua
The leader of Israel who succeeded Moses and led the Israelites into the Promised Land. His death marks a transition in Israel's history.

3. The Nations of Canaan
These are the various peoples inhabiting the Promised Land, whom God had commanded Israel to drive out completely.

4. Israel
The chosen people of God, who are now facing the consequences of their disobedience and incomplete conquest of the land.

5. Canaan
The Promised Land, a region that Israel was commanded to possess fully, but where they failed to drive out all the inhabitants.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Disobedience
Israel's failure to fully obey God's command led to ongoing struggles and temptations. This serves as a reminder of the importance of complete obedience to God's Word.

God's Sovereignty and Justice
God's decision not to drive out the nations reflects His justice and sovereignty. He allows consequences to unfold as a means of teaching and refining His people.

The Importance of Faithful Leadership
Joshua's leadership was crucial for Israel's initial success. The absence of strong, godly leadership after his death contributed to Israel's spiritual decline.

The Danger of Compromise
Allowing the nations to remain led to Israel's spiritual compromise and idolatry. Believers today must be vigilant against compromising their faith.

God's Faithfulness Despite Human Failure
Even in judgment, God remains faithful to His covenant. He uses Israel's failures to ultimately bring about His redemptive purposes.

Bible Study Questions

1. What were the specific reasons God had for commanding Israel to drive out the nations, and how does this relate to His holiness?

2. How does the failure of Israel to drive out the nations serve as a warning for believers today regarding partial obedience?

3. In what ways can we identify and address areas of compromise in our own lives, drawing from the lessons in Judges 2:21?

4. How does the leadership transition from Joshua to the judges illustrate the need for godly leadership in the church today?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced the consequences of disobedience. How did God use that situation to teach or refine you?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 23
Joshua's farewell address warns Israel about the dangers of not driving out the remaining nations, highlighting the consequences of disobedience.

Judges 1
Provides context for the incomplete conquest, detailing the tribes' failures to fully obey God's command to drive out the inhabitants.

Deuteronomy 7
God's original command to Israel to completely destroy the nations in Canaan, emphasizing the importance of obedience to His commands.