It is important to have a good conclusion. To communicate well, the conclusion matters. That leads to question: why does Joshua conclude with three funerals? 24:28 seems has an answer. Joshua let the people depart to their inheritance. These funerals are put here on purpose. Our task is to find out why.
Three reasons why Joshua concludes in this fashion
1. to give us a sense of completion It informs us that God has kept his promise. These three funerals take place in the land. These men have received the inheritance promised to them and they are being buried there. Joshua had a promise of the land. Joshua did not depart till God fulfilled that promise. Back in Gen 50, Joseph requested his bones not be left in Egypt. Shechem was bought by Jacob. In Gen 12, we see Abraham pass though Shechem. And that is where Joseph was buried. Interesting, but what is the significance? Heb 11:22 has the answer. Of all of acts of Joseph, this act is the one mentioned. He died in faith understanding the exodus and trusting in God to keep his word.
2. to remind us of declension This leads us into what follows in the Book of Judges. These funerals marks the end of an era. The company that left Egypt have all died. Eleazar was high priest during wilderness wondering (Ex 28). He brings the people into the land. He worked with Joshua (Num 34:17). But what is going to happen next? We know it is declension (Judges 2:10-11). God is pleased to use godly authority for our benefit. But we have a warning here from a godless posterity.
3. to give us a word of expectation Death is still present. The curse is sin is still active. We have a greater Joshua and Eleazar who can save from death.
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