Joshua 24:15Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Decide what you wish, though I do not imply that the decision rests solely with you. When Joshua addressed the people saying, ‘Choose now whom ye will serve, whether the gods which your fathers served or the Lord our God,’ he did not intend to place the decision entirely in human hands. Rather, he aimed to illustrate that the desires of those who love God are aligned with holiness. This brings to mind the mention of the serpent Moses lifted on the cross in the wilderness and thoughts on the divine Trinity.

He recounts the tale of Jacob's journey to Egypt and his subsequent exodus led by Moses, along with the miracle of the parted sea, his time spent in the wilderness, the ultimate downfall of the Amorites, Balak's intrigues, and the unwitting blessings declared by Balaam. He narrates the miraculous crossing of the river, the defeat of their adversaries, and the enjoyment of all good gifts. He urges them to forsake the worship of foreign deities and to dedicate themselves to the one true God who is their Creator and Redeemer.