The phrase "all that generation" is notably found in the context of the Old Testament, particularly in the Book of Judges. It refers to the generation of Israelites who lived during and after the conquest of Canaan under Joshua's leadership. This term is significant in understanding the spiritual and moral state of Israel during this transitional period in their history.

Biblical Context

The primary reference to "all that generation" is found in Judges 2:10: "After that whole generation had been gathered to their fathers, another generation rose up who did not know the LORD or the works that He had done for Israel" . This verse highlights a pivotal moment in Israel's history, marking the shift from a generation that had witnessed the mighty acts of God during the Exodus and the conquest of Canaan, to a new generation that lacked firsthand experience of these events.

Historical Background

The generation referred to in Judges 2:10 is the one that followed Joshua and the elders who had outlived him. Joshua, a faithful servant of the LORD, led the Israelites into the Promised Land, fulfilling the covenant promises made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Under his leadership, the Israelites experienced numerous victories and witnessed God's power and faithfulness.

However, after Joshua's death and the passing of his contemporaries, the succeeding generation failed to maintain the same level of faithfulness and commitment to the LORD. This new generation did not have the same direct encounters with God's miraculous interventions, such as the parting of the Jordan River or the fall of Jericho. Consequently, they did not have the same personal connection to the covenantal history of their people.

Spiritual Implications

The phrase "all that generation" serves as a somber reminder of the importance of transmitting faith and knowledge of God's works from one generation to the next. The failure of the Israelites to do so resulted in a generation that "did not know the LORD or the works that He had done for Israel." This lack of knowledge and personal relationship with God led to a cycle of disobedience, idolatry, and moral decline, as documented throughout the Book of Judges.

The spiritual decline of this generation underscores the necessity of diligent teaching and remembrance of God's deeds. Deuteronomy 6:6-9 emphasizes the importance of teaching God's commandments to children, speaking of them at home and on the road, and binding them as symbols on hands and foreheads. The failure to adhere to these instructions contributed to the spiritual amnesia of the generation following Joshua.

Lessons for Today

The account of "all that generation" serves as a cautionary tale for contemporary believers. It highlights the critical role of discipleship, teaching, and the transmission of faith across generations. The church today is called to ensure that the knowledge of God and His mighty works is passed down, fostering a living faith that is both personal and communal.

In summary, "all that generation" refers to a pivotal group in Israel's history whose lack of knowledge and experience of God's works led to spiritual decline. This serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of faith transmission and the consequences of neglecting this vital responsibility.