Lessons for the Christian From the Book of Joshua

Qualities of Joshua we should emulate Joshua did what he was told to do, even when it put him in difficult circumstances (Ex 17:9). He had tremendous faith in God. Because of his faith, he had a conquering spirit. Joshua exerted a great influence on people (Josh 24:14-31). Joshua also had a genuine concern for his brethren (Josh 24:14-15).

Lessons for the Christian - from the Book of Joshua We will consider some elements from the book of Joshua and see what type of lessons we can learn as Christians for today.

Joshua 6:1-5

Joshua 6:1-5 Verse 2, “See! I have given Jericho into your hand.” The Israelites still had to obey the Lord’s instructions to receive this gift! God provided the blessing, yet obedience was required on mans part.

The same principle is involved in our salvation… “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God” - Eph 2:8 (NKJV) We must still obey certain commands to receive this gift. (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:37-38) By whose power are we saved from our sins? (Colossians 2:11-12) The Israelites were given the city of Jericho after they had obeyed the commands of God (Hebrews 11:30)

Joshua 6:6-7:21 Josh 6:6-19, The destruction of Jericho (Look at verses 18-19 again!) Josh 7:6-12, Joshua’s reaction to the defeat at Ai and the Lord’s reply. Josh 7:19-21, The confrontation between Joshua and Achan. He saw, he coveted, he took, and he hid.

The same development in other instances… Gen 3:6-8 - Eve saw, desired, partook, and then hid. 2 Sam 11:1-4 - David saw, beheld, and took. Sin often develops in stages. Even if we do see, covet, and take – we must not hide! We need to confess our wrong and ask for forgiveness.

Joshua 9:1-15

Joshua 9:1-15 The Gibeonites were afraid of the Israelite army so they pretended as though they were from a different area. Verse 14, The Israelites failed to seek God’s counsel and therefore had to suffer the consequences.

Walk circumspectly… “See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, 16 redeeming the time, because the days are evil. 17 Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is.” - Eph 5:15-17 (NKJV) We need to seek counsel from God’s word so we can walk wisely!

Lessons for the Christian - from the Book of Joshua The grace of God does not negate the necessity of obedience on the part of man. Sin often develops in stages. When we are unsure about a certain action – before we do it – we need to 1st seek the counsel from the Lord.

Lessons for the Christian From the Book of Joshua