OceanSide church of Christ

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A Farewell Address
by: Dalton Gilreath

When Joshua knew he would be leaving the people of Israel he shared with them his last words (Joshua 23-24). He spoke by inspiration but also from the heart. In these two chapters we have two separate speeches, but both begin the same way. Joshua reminds them of all of what God has done for them (23:1-5, 9-10, 24:1-13). I pray and desire with all my being that this congregation will grow and remain faithful to the Lord. Joshua tells us that in order to do so we must always be mindful of what the Lord has done for us. When we focus on how good He is, we naturally want to serve Him more. And as much as God had done for Israel, He had not yet sent His only Son for them. How can we not desire to serve Him daily?

After reminding them of God’s great blessings, Joshua charges them to follow all that is written in the Law of Moses (23:6-8, 11, 24:14-15). Today we must choose to follow all that is written in the Law of Christ. Do not pick and choose which commandments to obey. Everything the Lord has given us is good for doctrine, reproof, correction and instruction in righteousness (2 Tim 3:16-17). Furthermore, everything we read from God’s Word is for our good always (Deut 6:24).

Finally, Joshua reminds them of God’s promised results based upon their decisions (23:12-16, 24:20). Should they choose to serve God they would be continually blessed with the abundant life. However, should they decide to serve the world, they would no longer be delivered from their enemies but consumed by them. Brethren, if we do not choose God we will be consumed by our greatest adversary for eternity. Of course, there is only One who can deliver us from this evil. Therefore, I implore you as Joshua implored them. Choose the Lord today and forever (24:21-24).