Time after Pentecost · Proper 15 · Year B
Joshua 24:1-2a, 14-18
The Covenant Renewed at Shechem
August 15, 2027
Overview & Insights
“Choose this day whom you will serve… but as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” (Joshua 24:15)
Covenant Renewal Ceremony at Shechem: 24:1–13 Joshua assembles representatives of the western tribes at Shechem. The chapter parallels the farewell address in Joshua 23. The farewell address anticipates Joshua’s death, and Joshua 24 describes it. This chapter gives no indication of its compositional history, and scholars disagree on its origin or use in the worship of Israel. The ceremony may reflect an early covenant renewal liturgy at Shechem (see Deut. 11:29–32; 27:1–26; reported in Josh. 8:30–35). Joshua’s reported message in Joshua 22:1–6 summarizes a similar covenant ceremony for the eastern tribes, perhaps at Shiloh.
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Commentary
Commentary on Joshua 24:1-2a, 14-18 Working Preacher
Luther Seminary's commentary on Joshua's covenant renewal at Shechem.
Joshua 24:1-2, 14-18 Commentary Center for Excellence in Preaching
A Reformed preaching commentary on the same 'choose this day' text.
Joshua 24 - The Covenant Renewed Enduring Word
David Guzik's chapter commentary on Israel's covenant renewal.
Joshua 24 Commentary Precept Austin
A verse by verse evangelical commentary with cross references for the chapter.
Background & Word Study
Sermons & Reflections
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Questions preachers ask
What is the covenant at Shechem?
Joshua rehearses God’s faithfulness and calls Israel to decide whom they will serve; the people renew the covenant to serve the Lord alone (Joshua 24). It is a classic call to wholehearted commitment.
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