Joshua 23:1
And it came to pass a long time after that the LORD had given rest unto Israel from all their enemies round about, that Joshua waxed old and stricken in age. And it came to pass a long time after that the LORD had given rest unto Israel from all their enemies round about, that Joshua waxed old and stricken in age.
A long time had passed since the wars of conquest, during which the Lord had given Israel extended rest from all their enemies round about. By that time Joshua had grown old and feeble, infirm and stricken in age, and was nearing the end of his life. He was retired at his home in Timnath-serah. At that time the Lord impressed him to act. In response he summoned all Israel and its leaders for his final address. In gathering the people he followed what Moses had done before him. His purpose was to recall the history of the people and the terms of the covenant made when God gave them the land.
Reviewing the past was meant to awaken gratitude for God's providential care and humility over murmuring, disobedience, and neglect of God's revealed will. He warned against idolatry and close association with idolaters, including intermarriage, because such ties would corrupt Israel. For that reason the people were to shun even the appearance of evil and not approach the borders of sin. He declared that departure from God would bring desolation, for God is faithful both to fulfill His promises and to carry out His threats. This warning is to be applied personally by each reader.