All Nations Community Church
Joshua 1:9 says, “Have I not command you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” These words were spoken to Joshua, but they hold meaning for us today. What has God called us to do? How are we a part of His salvation story? This sermon series through the book of Joshua examines these questions, encouraging listeners to follow God’s commands, even when it’s not easy.
Today: There are many reasons to quit anything. "I'm tired." "It's not my season." "It will never work." "I'm too inexperienced." "Not talented." or "I'm old." Do not give up or lose hope! The end is worth the fight!
Today, we will examine the life of a seasoned leader. His walk with God is undeniable and for many years Joshua has remained constant and confident in God’s promises!
Joshua realized there is still more within himself, and he was not done yet. His greatest adventure is before him. Last week he addressed the leaders, elders, officers, heads, and judges. Next, Joshua turns his attention to the entire family with his final words. He reminds them of God's faithfulness and his commitment.
Joshua 24:1-15 ESV
Joshua 24:1-13 Verse 1 Joshua spoke to all the people at Shechem. Shechem was an important place. When Abraham arrived in Canaan, he came to Shechem (Genesis 12:7). There God said to him, ‘I will give this land to your people.’ Now the people owned the land.
Verses 2-13 Now Joshua reminded the people. He told them about Abraham and other people. He told them what God had done.
Joshua is reviewing their history while setting some expectations...
Our Call is to Fear the Lord, v. 14a
- If God’s goodness wasn’t enough, Joshua’s discourse substantiated why the people must fear the Lord
- Let’s be clear, blessings are not the only reason to fear the Lord;
- By faith, we believe that God is (exists)…and that God is a rewarder of those who diligently seek
Our Greatest Challenge is Idols, v. 14b
- "An idol is anything, even a good thing, that has become an ultimate thing." Tim Keller
- Idols always over promise and under-deliver!
Our Deepest Desire must be Theocentric (God-centered), v. 15
- Joshua reveals possible alternatives (15a); There were other gods that could be worshipped including the gods of Egypt and the gods of the Amorites. Possible alternatives.
- Note Joshua’s personal decision (15b); As far as Joshua and those he led in his family, this was a “no-brainer”. He and his family would serve the Lord!
- Joshua is making a bold declaration: “My life (and family’s life) tells the truth about God.”
Talk it over:
· What is one thing that stood out to you from this week’s message?
· How can God’s ability to fulfill promises affect the way you trust Him?
· What’s a story from your past that could help you continue to trust God?
· How is Jesus the better Joshua?