Judges 2:10

After that whole generation had also been gathered to their fathers, another generation rose up who did not know the LORD or the works that He had done for Israel.

Study Bible

After that whole generation had also been gathered to their fathers
This phrase refers to the passing of the generation of Israelites who had entered the Promised Land under Joshua's leadership. "Gathered to their fathers" is a Hebrew idiom for death, emphasizing the continuity of family and community even in death. This generation had witnessed God's miraculous acts, such as the crossing of the Jordan River and the fall of Jericho. Their passing marks a significant transition in Israel's history, as they were the last to have firsthand experience of these divine interventions.

another generation rose up
This new generation grew up in the land of Canaan, surrounded by pagan cultures and influences. Unlike their predecessors, they did not have the same direct experiences of God's power and faithfulness. This highlights the importance of passing down faith and knowledge of God to future generations, a theme echoed in Deuteronomy 6:6-9, where parents are instructed to teach their children diligently about God's commandments.

who did not know the LORD
The lack of knowledge about the LORD among this generation suggests a failure in spiritual education and discipleship. Knowing the LORD in the biblical sense involves a personal relationship and understanding of His character and deeds. This ignorance led to spiritual decline and idolatry, as seen in the subsequent chapters of Judges. It underscores the danger of neglecting to teach and model faith to the next generation.

or the works that He had done for Israel
The works refer to the miraculous events and victories God provided for Israel, such as the Exodus from Egypt, the provision in the wilderness, and the conquest of Canaan. These acts were meant to be remembered and celebrated, as seen in the establishment of feasts like Passover. The failure to remember and recount these works led to a loss of identity and purpose among the Israelites, resulting in a cycle of sin and oppression throughout the book of Judges. This serves as a warning of the consequences of spiritual amnesia and the importance of remembering God's faithfulness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Whole Generation
Refers to the generation of Israelites who entered the Promised Land under Joshua's leadership. They had witnessed God's mighty acts and faithfulness.

2. Their Fathers
This phrase indicates the previous generation who had passed away, those who had firsthand experience of God's deliverance and miracles.

3. Another Generation
The new generation of Israelites who grew up after the conquest of Canaan. They lacked personal experience and knowledge of God's works.

4. The LORD
The covenant name of God, Yahweh, emphasizing His relationship with Israel as their God and deliverer.

5. The Works He Had Done for Israel
Refers to the miraculous events and acts of deliverance, such as the Exodus, the crossing of the Jordan, and the victories in Canaan.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Spiritual Legacy
It is crucial for each generation to pass down the knowledge and experience of God's faithfulness to the next. Failure to do so can lead to spiritual decline.

The Danger of Forgetfulness
Forgetting God's works and His character can lead to a lack of faith and disobedience. Regular remembrance and teaching are vital.

The Role of Parents and Leaders
Parents and spiritual leaders have a responsibility to teach and model a life of faith, ensuring that the next generation knows the Lord.

Personal Experience with God
Each individual must seek a personal relationship with God, not relying solely on the experiences of others.

Community Responsibility
The faith community as a whole must work together to ensure that the knowledge of God is preserved and passed on.

Bible Study Questions

1. What are some practical ways we can ensure that the next generation knows the Lord and His works?

2. How can we, as a community, create a culture of remembrance and teaching about God's faithfulness?

3. In what ways can parents and spiritual leaders effectively pass down their faith to their children?

4. Reflect on a time when you personally experienced God's work in your life. How can sharing this testimony impact others?

5. How does the failure of the Israelites in Judges 2:10 serve as a warning for us today in our spiritual walk and community life?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 6:6-9
This passage emphasizes the importance of teaching the next generation about God's commandments and deeds, highlighting the failure seen in Judges 2:10.

Psalm 78:4-8
This psalm recounts the importance of passing down the knowledge of God's works to future generations to prevent them from becoming rebellious and unfaithful.

Exodus 1:8
Similar to Judges 2:10, this verse describes a new generation in Egypt that did not know Joseph, leading to the Israelites' oppression.