Judges 2:7

And the people served the LORD throughout the days of Joshua and of the elders who outlived him, who had seen all the great works that the LORD had done for Israel.

Study Bible

And the people served the LORD
The phrase "served the LORD" indicates a period of faithfulness and obedience among the Israelites. The Hebrew word for "served" is עָבַד (avad), which implies not just worship but also a lifestyle of submission and dedication to God's commandments. This service was not merely ritualistic but encompassed a holistic devotion to Yahweh, the covenant God of Israel. Historically, this period was marked by a collective commitment to uphold the covenant established at Sinai, reflecting a community living under divine guidance.

all the days of Joshua
Joshua, whose name in Hebrew is יְהוֹשֻׁעַ (Yehoshua), meaning "Yahweh is salvation," was a pivotal leader who succeeded Moses. His leadership was characterized by military conquests and the distribution of the Promised Land among the tribes of Israel. The phrase "all the days of Joshua" signifies a time when the nation was united under a strong, God-fearing leader who continually pointed the people back to the LORD. Joshua's influence was crucial in maintaining the spiritual and moral direction of Israel.

and all the days of the elders who outlived him
The "elders" refer to the leaders who had firsthand experience of God's mighty acts during the Exodus and the conquest of Canaan. These individuals were eyewitnesses to God's faithfulness and power, and their leadership helped sustain the spiritual fervor initiated by Joshua. The Hebrew term זָקֵן (zaqen) for "elders" denotes not only age but also wisdom and authority. Their role was vital in preserving the collective memory of God's deeds and ensuring the continuity of faith among the people.

and who had seen all the great works the LORD had done for Israel
This phrase underscores the importance of witnessing and remembering God's "great works," which in Hebrew is גָּדוֹל (gadol), meaning "great" or "mighty." These works included the miraculous events of the Exodus, the crossing of the Jordan River, and the victories in Canaan. The elders' firsthand experience of these divine acts served as a powerful testimony to the succeeding generations. It highlights the biblical principle that faith is often strengthened and sustained through the remembrance of God's past faithfulness and interventions.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The leader of Israel after Moses, who led the Israelites into the Promised Land. His leadership is marked by faithfulness and obedience to God.

2. The Elders
These were leaders who outlived Joshua and had firsthand experience of God's mighty works. They played a crucial role in maintaining the spiritual direction of Israel during their lifetimes.

3. The LORD
The covenant God of Israel, who performed great works for His people, including delivering them from Egypt and giving them the Promised Land.

4. Israel
The nation chosen by God, who experienced His mighty works and were called to serve Him faithfully.

5. The Great Works of the LORD
Refers to the miraculous events and victories God provided for Israel, such as the crossing of the Jordan River and the fall of Jericho.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Godly Leadership
Godly leaders like Joshua and the elders play a crucial role in guiding people to serve the LORD faithfully. Their influence can have a lasting impact on the spiritual health of a community.

Remembering God's Works
Recalling and recounting the great works of God is essential for maintaining faithfulness. It helps to keep the community focused on God's power and faithfulness.

Generational Faithfulness
The faithfulness of one generation can inspire and sustain the next. It is vital to pass down the knowledge and experiences of God's works to future generations.

The Danger of Forgetfulness
When the memory of God's works fades, so does the commitment to serve Him. Vigilance is required to keep God's deeds at the forefront of communal and personal life.

The Role of Witnesses
Those who have witnessed God's works have a responsibility to testify and lead others in faithfulness. Their testimony can strengthen and encourage the community.

Bible Study Questions

1. How did Joshua's leadership influence the faithfulness of Israel, and what can we learn from his example about leading others today?

2. In what ways can we ensure that the great works of God are remembered and passed down to future generations in our families and communities?

3. Reflect on a time when you witnessed God's work in your life. How can sharing this experience encourage others in their faith journey?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to avoid spiritual forgetfulness and maintain a vibrant relationship with God?

5. How can the church today emulate the role of the elders in Judges 2:7 to foster a community that serves the LORD faithfully?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 24:31
This verse parallels Judges 2:7, emphasizing the faithfulness of Israel during Joshua's leadership and the elders who outlived him.

Deuteronomy 6:12
Warns Israel not to forget the LORD who brought them out of Egypt, highlighting the importance of remembering God's works.

Psalm 78:4-7
Encourages the passing down of God's mighty works to future generations, ensuring that they remain faithful.