The Covenant Written and the Witness Stone Set
Joshua records the covenant and sets a stone witness before dismissing Israel.
Joshua 24:25-28 (BSB)
25On that day Joshua made a covenant for the people, and there at Shechem he established for them a statute and ordinance.
26Joshua recorded these things in the Book of the Law of God. Then he took a large stone and set it up there under the oak that was near the sanctuary of the LORD.
27And Joshua said to all the people, “You see this stone. It will be a witness against us, for it has heard all the words the LORD has spoken to us, and it will be a witness against you if you ever deny your God.”
28Then Joshua sent the people away, each to his own inheritance.
What is the big idea of Joshua 24:25-28?
Joshua records the covenant and sets a stone witness before dismissing Israel.
Understanding the Big Idea
Joshua makes a covenant, records its statutes, and sets a stone as witness before dismissing the people to their inheritances. Written word and public witness mark the commitment.
How does Joshua 24:25-28 point to Christ?
A written covenant and witness stone make Israel accountable; they do not themselves redeem sinners. The Christian gospel is the death of Jesus for sins and his resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). Salvation by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8-10) should not erase the historical significance of Shechem's recorded renewal.
Authorial Intent
Joshua makes a covenant at Shechem, establishes statutes and rules, writes the words in the Book of the Law of God, sets a large stone by the sanctuary, and dismisses the people.
Questions for Reflection
- What does Joshua establish at Shechem?
- Where are the words written?
- Where is the stone placed?
- How can a stone be called a witness without being conscious?
- Where do the people go after dismissal?
- What changes from Covenant established to Assembly dismissed?
- How does The Covenant Written and the Witness Stone Set relate to its surrounding literary context?
- Why should do not literalize the stone's 'hearing' or claim its presence guarantees later generations' obedience.
Literary Context
Joshua 24:19-24 precedes The Covenant Written and the Witness Stone Set; Joshua 24:29-33 follows it. The Covenant Written and the Witness Stone Set serves Joshua’s continuing narrative.
Historical Context
The assembly remains at Shechem near the Lord's sanctuary. A terebinth and large stone become local features of the ratification; the people then return to their inheritances.
Chapter: Joshua 24
Covenant Renewal at Shechem and the Death of Joshua
Because the LORD alone has redeemed, preserved, and given inheritance to His people, He alone must be feared, loved, served, and worshiped with undivided allegiance.