Joshua 23: Group Study Handout

How to use: read Joshua 23 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

After many days of peace, Joshua gathered all Israel, including their elders and judges, to speak to them. He reminded them of their history and God’s help in defeating their enemies (vv. 1-3).

Key verse

“but hold fast to Yahweh your God, as you have done to this day.”
Joshua 23:8 (WEB)

Outline

Joshua 23:1–2 Joshua Addresses Israel
Joshua 23:3–5 God's Faithfulness
Joshua 23:6–10 Call to Obedience
Joshua 23:11–13 Warning Against Idolatry
Joshua 23:14–15 Joshua's Farewell
Joshua 23:16 Consequences of Disobedience

Discussion questions

What does Joshua remind the leaders of Israel about in v3?
In v8, what does Joshua urge the Israelites to 'hold fast' to?
The warning in v12 about making marriages: what might this imply about cultural influence?
In v15, how does Joshua connect God's blessings and curses to Israel's obedience?
When have you faced a choice like the one in v7 about intermingling with different beliefs?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Joshua 23: Deuteronomy 32, Leviticus 26, Exodus 14.

Before next time: read Joshua 24.