Joshua 24:17

KJV

For the LORD our God, he [it is] that brought us up and our fathers out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage, and which did those great signs in our sight, and preserved us in all the way wherein we went, and among all the people through whom we passed:

KJV (with Strong's)

For the LORD {H3068} our God {H430}, he it is that brought us up {H5927} and our fathers {H1} out of the land {H776} of Egypt {H4714}, from the house {H1004} of bondage {H5650}, and which did {H6213} those great {H1419} signs {H226} in our sight {H5869}, and preserved {H8104} us in all the way {H1870} wherein we went {H1980}, and among all the people {H5971} through {H7130} whom we passed {H5674}:

Complete Jewish Bible

because it is ADONAI our God who brought us and our fathers up out of the land of Egypt, from a life of slavery, and did those great signs before our eyes, and preserved us all along the way we traveled and among all the peoples we passed through;

Berean Standard Bible

For the LORD our God brought us and our fathers out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery, and performed these great signs before our eyes. He also protected us throughout our journey and among all the nations through which we traveled.

American Standard Version

for Jehovah our God, he it is that brought us and our fathers up out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage, and that did those great signs in our sight, and preserved us in all the way wherein we went, and among all the peoples through the midst of whom we passed;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Joshua 24:17 encapsulates the fervent declaration of the Israelite people, expressing their unwavering allegiance to the LORD in response to Joshua's final challenge. This verse serves as a powerful corporate remembrance, articulating God's mighty acts of deliverance from Egyptian bondage, His awe-inspiring signs, and His continuous preservation throughout their wilderness journey and conquest. This profound recollection of divine faithfulness forms the bedrock of their renewed covenant commitment, affirming that their choice to serve the LORD is rooted in His demonstrable and enduring goodness and power.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is embedded within Joshua's pivotal farewell address and the subsequent covenant renewal ceremony at Shechem, as recorded in [Joshua 23](/joshua/23 "Joshua 23 - Joshua's Farewell Address") and [Joshua 24](/joshua/24 "Joshua 24 - Covenant Renewal at Shechem"). Having successfully led Israel into the Promised Land and overseen the initial phase of its conquest, Joshua, now old and near death, gathers all the tribes of Israel to Shechem. This assembly is a critical moment, a final opportunity for Joshua to challenge the people to remain faithful to the covenant God had made with their ancestors. He recounts the sweeping narrative of God's redemptive history, beginning with Abraham's call from paganism, through the Exodus, the wilderness wanderings, and the conquest of Canaan. After presenting the stark choice to "choose this day whom you will serve" in [Joshua 24:15](/joshua/24-15 "Joshua 24:15 - Choose This Day Whom You Will Serve"), verse 17 is part of the people's immediate and emphatic response, demonstrating their profound understanding that God's past actions provide the irrefutable basis for their present and future devotion. Their declaration is not merely emotional but grounded in historical fact and theological truth.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting at Shechem is highly significant. It was a place of deep historical and covenantal resonance, where Abraham first built an altar to the LORD upon entering Canaan ([Genesis 12:6-7](/genesis/12-6 "Genesis 12:6-7 - Abraham's Altar at Shechem")), and where Jacob buried the foreign gods of his household ([Genesis 35:4](/genesis/35-4 "Genesis 35:4 - Jacob Buries Idols at Shechem")). This made it an ideal location for a covenant renewal ceremony, echoing ancient Near Eastern suzerainty treaties where a powerful king (suzerain) would outline his benevolent acts for a vassal people, who in turn pledged their loyalty. The Israelites' reference to "the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage" resonates deeply with their collective memory of brutal slavery under Pharaoh, a defining experience that forged their identity as a people redeemed by Yahweh. The "great signs" recall the miraculous plagues and the parting of the Red Sea, events that were not only supernatural but also served as divine judgments against Egypt's gods and demonstrations of Yahweh's unique power. Their journey through the wilderness and encounters with hostile nations further underscored their utter dependence on God's "preservation," a constant reminder of His protective presence in a dangerous world.

* **Key Themes:** Joshua 24:17 powerfully encapsulates several core themes central to the book of Joshua and the broader Old Testament narrative. Foremost is **Divine Deliverance**, highlighted by the dramatic [Exodus from Egypt](/exodus/13 "Exodus 13 - The Exodus from Egypt"), which established God's identity as Israel's Redeemer and solidified their identity as His chosen people, freed from the "house of bondage." This foundational event is repeatedly recalled throughout Israel's history as the ultimate proof of God's saving power (e.g., [Deuteronomy 6:21-23](/deuteronomy/6-21 "Deuteronomy 6:21-23 - Remember the Exodus")). Closely related is **God's Miraculous Power**, evidenced by "those great signs in our sight," referring to the plagues, the Red Sea crossing, and the wilderness provisions. These were undeniable demonstrations of God's sovereignty over creation and nations. The theme of **Unwavering Preservation** is also prominent, as the Lord "preserved us in all the way wherein we went, and among all the people through whom we passed," showcasing God's constant providence and protection throughout their forty years in the wilderness and during the conquest of Canaan ([Deuteronomy 8:2](/deuteronomy/8-2 "Deuteronomy 8:2 - God's Leading in the Wilderness")). Finally, the verse underscores **Covenant Faithfulness**, both God's faithfulness to His promises and the people's reciprocal commitment. Their recitation of God's past acts serves as the logical and historical bedrock for their renewed decision to serve Him alone, emphasizing that true obedience flows from a grateful remembrance of divine grace.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Bondage (Hebrew, _ʻebed'_):** From H5650, meaning "servant" or "bondman." In the phrase "house of bondage" (בֵּית עֲבָדִים, _bet avadim_), this term vividly describes the complete subjugation and oppressive servitude experienced by the Israelites in Egypt. The use of "house" (H1004, _bayith_) emphasizes the systemic and pervasive nature of their enslavement, making it a defining characteristic of their existence there. Theologically, it highlights the depth of their plight from which only divine intervention could deliver them, underscoring God's role as the ultimate Liberator.
* **Signs (Hebrew, _ʼôwth'_):** From H226, meaning "a signal (literally or figuratively), as a flag, beacon, monument, omen, prodigy, evidence, etc." The phrase "great signs" (H1419, _gâdôwl_ with H226, _ʼôwth_) refers to the miraculous and often awe-inspiring acts performed by God, particularly during the Exodus and wilderness wanderings. In biblical usage, "signs" are not merely wonders but carry a specific purpose: they are divine indicators or proofs, often revealing God's presence, power, and judicial authority. They serve to authenticate God's messengers (like Moses) and to demonstrate His sovereignty over all creation and false deities. The fact that these signs were "in our sight" (H5869, _ʻayin_) emphasizes their public, undeniable, and experiential nature for the Israelite generation.
* **Preserved (Hebrew, _shâmar'_):** From H8104, meaning "to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e. guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc." This verb signifies guarding, keeping, watching over, or protecting. In this context, it speaks to God's diligent and continuous oversight of Israel throughout their perilous journey. It implies a watchful care that shielded them from dangers, provided for their needs, and guided them through hostile territories. This highlights God's covenant faithfulness not only in delivering them but also in sustaining and protecting them, fulfilling His promises to bring them safely into the land.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For the LORD our God, he [it is] that brought us up and our fathers out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage":** This opening clause immediately establishes the identity of the God to whom they are committed and recounts His foundational act of redemption. The phrase "the LORD our God" signifies a personal and covenantal relationship (H3068, _Yᵉhôvâh_ and H430, _ʼĕlôhîym_). The "bringing up" (H5927, _ʻâlâh_) from Egypt is the ultimate act of liberation, separating them from slavery and setting them on a path to freedom and covenant relationship. The explicit mention of "our fathers" (H1, _ʼâb_) emphasizes the continuity of God's faithfulness across generations and the corporate memory of this defining event. "The house of bondage" (H1004, _bayith_ and H5650, _ʻebed_) serves as a stark reminder of their former state, amplifying the magnitude of God's deliverance.
* **"and which did those great signs in our sight":** This clause elaborates on the *manner* of their deliverance, emphasizing God's supernatural power and direct intervention (H6213, _ʻâsâh_). "Great signs" (H1419, _gâdôwl_ and H226, _ʼôwth_) refers to the ten plagues, the parting of the Red Sea, and other miracles that demonstrated God's omnipotence and His triumph over the gods of Egypt. The phrase "in our sight" (H5869, _ʻayin_) underscores the experiential nature of these events for the generation present at Shechem, or at least for their immediate ancestors, making their testimony firsthand or deeply ingrained in their collective memory. These were not hidden acts but public displays of divine power, validating God's claims and His unique status.
* **"and preserved us in all the way wherein we went, and among all the people through whom we passed":** This final clause extends the scope of God's faithfulness beyond the initial Exodus to encompass the entire wilderness journey and the subsequent conquest. "Preserved us" (H8104, _shâmar_) highlights God's continuous protection and provision against both natural dangers and the threats posed by hostile nations. This demonstrates God's unwavering commitment to His people, not just in a singular act of liberation but in sustained, daily care. The comprehensive nature of "all the way wherein we went" (H1870, _derek_ and H1980, _hâlak_) and "among all the people" (H5971, _ʻam_) "through whom we passed" (H7130, _qereb_ and H5674, _ʻâbar_) emphasizes the totality of God's providential care, leaving no doubt about His constant presence and protection.

#### Literary Devices
Joshua 24:17 masterfully employs several literary devices to enhance its impact and reinforce its theological message. **Anaphora**, the repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses, is evident in the repeated "and which" or "and" (וְאֲשֶׁר, _vĕʾăšer_) connecting each of God's mighty acts: "brought us up... and which did... and preserved us." This repetitive structure creates a rhythmic, emphatic declaration, building momentum and underscoring the continuous and multifaceted nature of God's faithfulness. **Parallelism** is also present, particularly in the final clause, "in all the way wherein we went, and among all the people through whom we passed," where the two phrases parallel each other to convey the comprehensive scope of God's preservation. This serves as a form of **hyperbole** or **amplification**, emphasizing that God's care extended to every aspect of their journey and every encounter. Furthermore, the verse functions as a powerful example of **corporate memory** and **recitation**, where the community collectively recalls and articulates its foundational narrative. This act of public declaration solidifies their identity and commitment, transforming historical events into a living testimony of God's enduring character.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Joshua 24:17 serves as a profound theological statement on the nature of God and the basis of human response. It underscores the principle that genuine faith and commitment are not abstract but are rooted in a grateful remembrance of God's concrete historical actions. The Israelites' declaration highlights God's absolute sovereignty, His unique power to deliver from seemingly insurmountable oppression, and His unwavering covenant faithfulness. This verse illustrates that God's past deeds are not mere historical facts but living testimonies that demand a present and future response of exclusive worship and obedience. It teaches that the foundation of a people's identity and their relationship with God is inextricably linked to their collective memory of His redemptive acts, making gratitude for past grace the wellspring of present devotion.
* [Deuteronomy 6:20-25](/deuteronomy/6-20 "Deuteronomy 6:20-25 - Teaching Future Generations")
* [Psalm 78:1-8](/psalms/78-1 "Psalm 78:1-8 - Recounting God's Deeds to Future Generations")
* [Isaiah 43:1-3](/isaiah/43-1 "Isaiah 43:1-3 - God's Redemption and Preservation")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Joshua 24:17 offers a timeless blueprint for cultivating and sustaining a vibrant faith. Just as the Israelites grounded their commitment in the historical reality of God's mighty acts, so too are believers today called to remember God's faithfulness in their own lives and in the grand narrative of salvation history. This verse challenges us to move beyond a superficial understanding of God to a deep appreciation of His character, as revealed through His consistent deliverance, miraculous intervention, and unwavering preservation. Remembering God's past grace—whether in personal testimony or through the biblical record—builds present trust, strengthens our resolve in the face of adversity, and informs our daily choices. It reminds us that our worship and service are not arbitrary demands but a grateful response to the One who has already proven Himself infinitely worthy. In a world that constantly vies for our allegiance, this passage calls us to consciously recall God's deeds, allowing His past faithfulness to anchor our present hope and inspire our future obedience.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What are the "great signs" of God's faithfulness that you have personally witnessed or experienced in your life?**
* **How does remembering God's past deliverance and preservation strengthen your trust in Him for current challenges?**
* **In what ways does your "house of bondage" (e.g., sin, fear, addiction) highlight the necessity and magnitude of God's liberating power?**
* **How can you more intentionally cultivate a corporate memory of God's faithfulness within your family or faith community?**

### FAQ
**Why is remembering God's past acts so important for faith?**

Answer: Remembering God's past acts is crucial because it provides the historical and experiential foundation for faith. For the Israelites, recalling the Exodus and wilderness preservation (as in [Joshua 24:17](/joshua/24-17 "Joshua 24:17 - Remembering God's Deliverance")) was not just a historical exercise but a reaffirmation of God's character as faithful, powerful, and loving. It demonstrates that God is not a distant, abstract deity but one who actively intervenes in human history. This remembrance builds confidence and trust for the present and future, assuring believers that the God who acted mightily in the past is the same God who will continue to provide, protect, and deliver. It counters forgetfulness, which often leads to spiritual complacency or idolatry, by grounding faith in verifiable divine action.

**How does this passage relate to the concept of covenant?**

Answer: Joshua 24:17 is an integral part of a covenant renewal ceremony, making its connection to covenant theology explicit. The people's declaration is a direct response to Joshua's call to reaffirm their commitment to the LORD, based on His prior covenant faithfulness. In ancient Near Eastern covenants, the suzerain (God) would recount His benevolent deeds before the vassal (Israel) pledged loyalty. This verse is Israel's acknowledgment of God's fulfillment of His covenant promises (e.g., [Genesis 15:13-14](/genesis/15-13 "Genesis 15:13-14 - God's Covenant with Abraham")). Their remembrance of God bringing them "out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage" and preserving them through the wilderness serves as the historical basis for their renewed commitment to serve Him alone. It highlights the reciprocal nature of the covenant: God's faithfulness elicits Israel's obedience.

**What is the significance of "house of bondage"?**

Answer: The phrase "house of bondage" (בֵּית עֲבָדִים, _bet avadim_) is a powerful and frequently used biblical idiom for Egypt and the oppressive slavery Israel endured there. Its significance is multifaceted: it emphasizes the totality and severity of their former enslavement, highlighting that their liberation was not partial but a complete rescue from utter subjugation. The "house" imagery suggests a systemic, inescapable condition. Theologically, it magnifies the greatness of God's deliverance, portraying Him as the ultimate Redeemer who breaks the chains of oppression. This phrase serves as a constant reminder of what God saved them *from*, making their freedom and their identity as God's people all the more precious and underscoring their perpetual debt of gratitude and loyalty to their Liberator.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Joshua 24:17 speaks of Israel's physical deliverance from Egyptian bondage, its themes of liberation, divine signs, and preservation find their ultimate and spiritual fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Just as God brought Israel out of the "house of bondage" in Egypt, Christ delivers humanity from the far more pervasive and destructive "house of bondage" to sin and death ([John 8:34-36](/john/8-34 "John 8:34-36 - Freedom from Sin")). His life, death, and resurrection constitute the "great signs" that confirm His divine identity and mission, far surpassing the miracles of the Exodus. The Apostle John, for instance, refers to Jesus' miracles as "signs" that reveal His glory and lead to belief ([John 2:11](/john/2-11 "John 2:11 - Jesus' First Sign at Cana")). Furthermore, the preservation of Israel through the wilderness foreshadows Christ's ongoing preservation of His church, guarding His people through the trials of this world and leading them to their eternal inheritance ([Matthew 28:20](/matthew/28-20 "Matthew 28:20 - Jesus' Promise of Presence")). The Old Testament Exodus points forward to the greater spiritual Exodus accomplished by Christ, who, through His sacrifice, "delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son" ([Colossians 1:13-14](/colossians/1-13 "Colossians 1:13-14 - Delivered from Darkness")). Thus, the people's grateful declaration in Joshua 24:17 becomes a profound echo of the believer's confession of Christ as the true and ultimate Deliverer, the One who performed the greatest signs, and the faithful Shepherd who preserves His flock unto eternal life.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Exodus 19:4

Ye have seen what I did unto the Egyptians, and [how] I bare you on eagles' wings, and brought you unto myself.

Deuteronomy 32:11

As an eagle stirreth up her nest, fluttereth over her young, spreadeth abroad her wings, taketh them, beareth them on her wings:

Deuteronomy 32:12

[So] the LORD alone did lead him, and [there was] no strange god with him.

Isaiah 46:4

And [even] to [your] old age I [am] he; and [even] to hoar hairs will I carry [you]: I have made, and I will bear; even I will carry, and will deliver [you].

Isaiah 63:7

¶ I will mention the lovingkindnesses of the LORD, [and] the praises of the LORD, according to all that the LORD hath bestowed on us, and the great goodness toward the house of Israel, which he hath bestowed on them according to his mercies, and according to the multitude of his lovingkindnesses.

Isaiah 63:14

As a beast goeth down into the valley, the Spirit of the LORD caused him to rest: so didst thou lead thy people, to make thyself a glorious name.

Joshua 24:5

I sent Moses also and Aaron, and I plagued Egypt, according to that which I did among them: and afterward I brought you out.