King James Version

What Does Joshua 24:21 Mean?

“And the people said unto Joshua, Nay; but we will serve the LORD.”

Context

And Joshua said unto the people, Ye cannot serve the LORD: for he is an holy God; he is a jealous God; he will not forgive your transgressions nor your sins.

If ye forsake the LORD, and serve strange gods, then he will turn and do you hurt, and consume you, after that he hath done you good.

And the people said unto Joshua, Nay; but we will serve the LORD.

And Joshua said unto the people, Ye are witnesses against yourselves that ye have chosen you the LORD, to serve him. And they said, We are witnesses.

Now therefore put away, said he, the strange gods which are among you, and incline your heart unto the LORD God of Israel.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(21) **Nay; but we will serve the Lord.**—Being brought to the point, no other answer was possible. If they must give up Jehovah or the idols, the idols must go first. (22,23) **Ye are witnesses . . . that ye have chosen you the Lord . . . Now therefore put away . . . the strange gods**.—This was the practical conclusion to which Joshua desired that they should come. But we do not read that they *did anything *in obedience to these words. We read of no images being buried or burned, as in the days of Jacob by David (Genesis 35:4; 2Samuel 5:21). There is only a verbal promise: “The Lord our God will we serve, and His voice will we obey.”

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Joshua. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Joshua 24:21 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.