Joshua 23:15

But just as every good thing the LORD your God promised you has come to pass, likewise the LORD will bring upon you the calamity He has threatened, until He has destroyed you from this good land He has given you.

Study Bible

But just as every good word
The phrase "every good word" refers to the promises and blessings that God had previously given to the Israelites. In Hebrew, the word for "word" is "dabar," which can also mean "matter" or "thing." This emphasizes the reliability and truth of God's promises. Historically, the Israelites had witnessed the fulfillment of God's promises, such as the conquest of Canaan. This serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and the certainty of His words.

that the LORD your God has spoken to you
The title "LORD" is translated from the Hebrew "YHWH," the sacred name of God, emphasizing His eternal and unchanging nature. "Your God" personalizes the relationship between God and the Israelites, highlighting a covenantal bond. The phrase underscores the direct communication from God to His people, a privilege that carried both blessings and responsibilities.

has come to pass
This phrase confirms the fulfillment of God's promises. The Hebrew root "bo" means "to come" or "to enter," indicating that God's words have been realized in the physical realm. The historical context shows that the Israelites had experienced victories and prosperity as God had promised, reinforcing their trust in His word.

so will He bring upon you every bad thing
The phrase "every bad thing" serves as a warning. The Hebrew word for "bad" is "ra," which can mean evil, calamity, or disaster. This reflects the consequences of disobedience to God's covenant. The historical context of Israel's cycles of obedience and rebellion illustrates the reality of this warning, as seen in later periods of exile and suffering.

until He has annihilated you
The word "annihilated" comes from the Hebrew "shamad," meaning to destroy or exterminate. This severe consequence underscores the seriousness of breaking the covenant with God. It serves as a sobering reminder of the holiness and justice of God, who cannot tolerate sin indefinitely.

from this good land
The "good land" refers to the Promised Land, a gift from God to the Israelites. The Hebrew word "tov" for "good" indicates the land's abundance and suitability for the Israelites' prosperity. This phrase highlights the contrast between the blessings of obedience and the consequences of disobedience.

that the LORD your God has given you
The phrase emphasizes the land as a divine gift, not something earned by the Israelites' own efforts. The Hebrew root "natan" means "to give," underscoring God's grace and generosity. This serves as a reminder of the Israelites' dependence on God for their inheritance and the importance of maintaining their covenant relationship with Him.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The leader of Israel after Moses, delivering his farewell address to the Israelites, reminding them of God's faithfulness and the consequences of disobedience.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who has fulfilled His promises and warns of the consequences of breaking the covenant.

3. The Israelites
The chosen people of God, recipients of the Promised Land, and the audience of Joshua's address.

4. The Promised Land
The land of Canaan, given to the Israelites as an inheritance, contingent upon their obedience to God's commands.

5. Covenant
The agreement between God and Israel, involving blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience.

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness and Justice
God is faithful to His promises, both in blessings and in judgments. Believers should trust in His faithfulness and live in reverence of His justice.

The Seriousness of Covenant
The covenant relationship with God is serious and requires obedience. Christians are called to live in accordance with God's commands, understanding the gravity of their commitment.

Consequences of Disobedience
Disobedience to God leads to serious consequences. Believers should be vigilant in their walk with God, avoiding complacency and sin.

The Importance of Remembrance
Remembering God's past faithfulness encourages present obedience. Reflect on God's work in your life to strengthen your faith and commitment.

Living in the Promised Land
Just as Israel was called to live righteously in the Promised Land, Christians are called to live holy lives in the world, reflecting God's kingdom values.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joshua 23:15 reflect the character of God in terms of His faithfulness and justice?

2. In what ways can we see the principles of blessings and curses from Deuteronomy 28 and Leviticus 26 at work in our lives today?

3. How can we apply the warning in Joshua 23:15 to our personal walk with God, especially in terms of obedience and faithfulness?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to remember and reflect on God's faithfulness in our lives?

5. How does the New Testament, particularly Hebrews 10:26-31, reinforce the message of Joshua 23:15 for believers today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 28
This chapter outlines the blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, providing a backdrop for Joshua's warning.

Leviticus 26
Similar to Deuteronomy 28, it details the consequences of Israel's faithfulness or unfaithfulness to God's covenant.

2 Kings 17
The eventual exile of Israel due to their disobedience, fulfilling the warnings given by Joshua.

Hebrews 10:26-31
A New Testament parallel warning about the consequences of willful sin after receiving the knowledge of the truth.