Faithfulness and Obedience: Lessons from Joshua and Rahab
Summary
### Summary
Today, we explored the profound impact of early exposure to the gospel and the invaluable role of youth and children's ministries in our church. Reflecting on our own experiences, many of us first heard the gospel before the age of 25, underscoring the importance of these formative years. We acknowledged and prayed for the dedicated volunteers and leaders who invest in our young people, recognizing their crucial role in shaping the future of our faith community.
We then transitioned to the book of Joshua, focusing on the theme of God's faithfulness and the importance of remembering His past works as we move forward. Joshua, called to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land after Moses' death, is instructed by God to meditate on the law day and night. This meditation serves as a reminder of God's unwavering faithfulness and prepares Joshua and the Israelites for the challenges ahead.
In Joshua chapter 2, we examined the story of Rahab, a prostitute in Jericho who demonstrated remarkable faith. Despite her unlikely background, Rahab recognized the power and sovereignty of the God of Israel. She hid the Israelite spies and secured a promise of protection for her and her family by tying a scarlet cord in her window, reminiscent of the Passover. Rahab's faith and immediate obedience led to her salvation and inclusion in the lineage of Jesus, highlighting God's habit of saving the most unlikely people.
We are called to reflect on God's faithfulness in our own lives and in the history of our church. By doing so, we can move forward with confidence, knowing that God is with us wherever we go. As we embark on this new series through the book of Joshua, let us commit to meditating on God's word, remembering His past faithfulness, and trusting in His promises for the future.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Importance of Early Gospel Exposure: Many of us first heard the gospel before the age of 25, highlighting the critical role of youth and children's ministries. These formative years are pivotal for spiritual growth, and the dedication of volunteers and leaders in these ministries is invaluable. Their work goes beyond activities and fun; it lays the foundation for a lifelong faith journey. [23:10]
2. God's Faithfulness Through Transitions: Joshua's call to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land came with a command to meditate on God's law day and night. This practice of remembering God's past faithfulness prepared Joshua and the Israelites for the challenges ahead. Similarly, reflecting on God's faithfulness in our own lives can strengthen our faith and prepare us for future transitions. [32:08]
3. Rahab's Unlikely Faith: Rahab, a prostitute in Jericho, demonstrated remarkable faith by hiding the Israelite spies and securing protection for her family. Her story shows that God is in the habit of saving the most unlikely people. Rahab's faith and immediate obedience led to her salvation and inclusion in the lineage of Jesus, reminding us that God's grace extends to all, regardless of their past. [37:02]
4. The Power of Immediate Obedience: Rahab's immediate action in tying the scarlet cord in her window, despite having time to delay, exemplifies the importance of prompt obedience to God's instructions. Her eagerness to accept God's grace and mercy serves as a powerful lesson for us to act swiftly in faith and obedience, trusting in God's promises. [52:50]
5. Reflecting on God's Faithfulness: As we study the book of Joshua, we are reminded to regularly look back at God's faithfulness, not only in our own lives but also in the history of our church. This practice helps us move forward with confidence, knowing that God is with us wherever we go. By meditating on God's word and remembering His past works, we can trust in His promises for the future. [01:01:06]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[23:10] - Early Gospel Exposure
[24:23] - Introduction of Ministry Leaders
[26:33] - Prayer for Volunteers and Leaders
[29:18] - Youth and Children's Programs
[30:19] - Personal Reflections on Moving
[32:08] - God's Faithfulness Through Transitions
[32:57] - Introduction to the Book of Joshua
[33:50] - Meditate on God's Law
[34:44] - God's Unchanging Faithfulness
[36:16] - The Story of Rahab
[37:02] - Rahab's Unlikely Faith
[38:41] - Rahab Hides the Spies
[41:01] - The Scarlet Cord
[52:50] - Immediate Obedience
[01:01:06] - Reflecting on God's Faithfulness
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
- Joshua 1:8-9
- Joshua 2:1-24
#### Observation Questions
1. What command did God give Joshua in Joshua 1:8-9, and why was it important for him to follow it?
2. How did Rahab demonstrate her faith in Joshua 2:1-24, and what actions did she take to protect the Israelite spies? [37:56]
3. What was the significance of the scarlet cord that Rahab tied in her window, and how does it relate to the Passover? [52:50]
4. How did the people of Jericho, including Rahab, react to the news of the Israelites' past victories and the power of their God? [39:53]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is early exposure to the gospel considered crucial for spiritual growth, and how does this relate to the importance of youth and children's ministries in the church? [23:10]
2. How does Joshua's command to meditate on God's law day and night prepare him and the Israelites for the challenges ahead? What can we learn from this practice? [33:50]
3. Rahab's faith led to her inclusion in the lineage of Jesus. What does this tell us about God's grace and the types of people He chooses to save? [57:41]
4. How does the story of Rahab illustrate the power of immediate obedience to God's instructions? What can we learn from her example? [54:35]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your own experience with early exposure to the gospel. How did it shape your faith journey, and how can you support youth and children's ministries in your church? [23:10]
2. Joshua was instructed to meditate on God's law day and night. What specific steps can you take to incorporate regular meditation on God's word into your daily routine? [33:50]
3. Rahab's immediate obedience to tie the scarlet cord in her window was crucial for her salvation. Is there an area in your life where you need to act promptly in obedience to God's instructions? [54:35]
4. Rahab's faith led to her being saved despite her past. How can you extend grace and support to those in your community who may feel like unlikely candidates for God's salvation? [57:41]
5. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's faithfulness during a transition or challenging period in your life. How can remembering this help you face future challenges with confidence? [32:08]
6. The story of Rahab shows that God is in the habit of saving the most unlikely people. How can you be more open to sharing the gospel with those who might seem unlikely to accept it? [37:02]
7. As we study the book of Joshua, we are reminded to look back at God's faithfulness. What are some specific ways you can regularly reflect on and celebrate God's past works in your life and in the history of your church? [01:01:06]
Devotional
Day 1: The Critical Role of Early Gospel Exposure
The formative years of a person's life are crucial for spiritual growth. Many individuals first hear the gospel before the age of 25, making youth and children's ministries essential in laying the foundation for a lifelong faith journey. These ministries are not just about fun activities; they are about planting seeds of faith that can grow and flourish over a lifetime. The dedication of volunteers and leaders in these ministries is invaluable, as they invest their time and energy into nurturing the spiritual lives of young people. Their work is a testament to the importance of early gospel exposure and its lasting impact on an individual's faith. [23:10]
Deuteronomy 6:6-7 (ESV): "And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise."
Reflection: Think about your own faith journey. Who were the key people who introduced you to the gospel at a young age? How can you support or get involved in youth and children's ministries to help shape the faith of the next generation?
Day 2: God's Faithfulness Through Transitions
Transitions in life can be challenging, but they also provide opportunities to witness God's faithfulness. Joshua was called to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land after Moses' death, a significant transition for the entire nation. God instructed Joshua to meditate on His law day and night, reminding him of His unwavering faithfulness. This practice prepared Joshua and the Israelites for the challenges ahead. Similarly, reflecting on God's faithfulness in our own lives can strengthen our faith and prepare us for future transitions. By meditating on God's word and remembering His past works, we can move forward with confidence, knowing that God is with us wherever we go. [32:08]
Joshua 1:8-9 (ESV): "This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success. Have I not commanded 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."
Reflection: Reflect on a recent transition in your life. How did you see God's faithfulness during that time? What practices can you adopt to remind yourself of God's faithfulness as you face future transitions?
Day 3: Rahab's Unlikely Faith
Rahab, a prostitute in Jericho, demonstrated remarkable faith by hiding the Israelite spies and securing protection for her family. Despite her unlikely background, Rahab recognized the power and sovereignty of the God of Israel. Her faith and immediate obedience led to her salvation and inclusion in the lineage of Jesus, highlighting God's habit of saving the most unlikely people. Rahab's story reminds us that God's grace extends to all, regardless of their past. It is a powerful testament to the transformative power of faith and the inclusivity of God's salvation. [37:02]
Hebrews 11:31 (ESV): "By faith Rahab the prostitute did not perish with those who were disobedient, because she had given a friendly welcome to the spies."
Reflection: Think about someone in your life who might seem unlikely to come to faith. How can you pray for them and show them God's love and grace in a tangible way this week?
Day 4: The Power of Immediate Obedience
Rahab's immediate action in tying the scarlet cord in her window, despite having time to delay, exemplifies the importance of prompt obedience to God's instructions. Her eagerness to accept God's grace and mercy serves as a powerful lesson for us to act swiftly in faith and obedience, trusting in God's promises. Immediate obedience demonstrates our trust in God and our willingness to follow His guidance without hesitation. It is a crucial aspect of living a life of faith and experiencing the fullness of God's blessings. [52:50]
James 1:22 (ESV): "But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves."
Reflection: Is there an area in your life where you feel God is calling you to act, but you have been hesitant? What steps can you take today to respond with immediate obedience?
Day 5: Reflecting on God's Faithfulness
As we study the book of Joshua, we are reminded to regularly look back at God's faithfulness, not only in our own lives but also in the history of our church. This practice helps us move forward with confidence, knowing that God is with us wherever we go. By meditating on God's word and remembering His past works, we can trust in His promises for the future. Reflecting on God's faithfulness strengthens our faith and encourages us to remain steadfast in our walk with Him. It is a vital practice for spiritual growth and resilience. [01:01:06]
Psalm 77:11-12 (ESV): "I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your wonders of old. I will ponder all your work, and meditate on your mighty deeds."
Reflection: Take some time today to write down specific instances of God's faithfulness in your life. How can remembering these moments help you trust Him more in your current circumstances?
Quotes
1. "Folks, when I tell you that our programs for youth and kids and young adults are way more than just, you know, pizza and laser tag and coloring pages, I mean it. I want you to think about when you were under age 25 at any point in the church, the people that invested in you, the Bible stories that you heard, and your exposure to the gospel. And I tell you, the work that these volunteers do every week is absolutely invaluable." [23:10] (39 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "I think even just by the show of hands that we've already seen, we have seen how important that connection, that gospel impact is in the lives of young people. And they form a huge, important part of the church. And so would you. Would you commit to, this year, holding these people up in prayer as they minister to some of the most precious people that we have in our church family?" [24:23] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "I think about the lessons that I have learned. About God's faithfulness. About all of the ways he has been training us and preparing us for what's next. And I think about the book of Joshua. I think about the way that Joshua opens. In the book of Joshua, it begins with the death of Moses. It's always a great start. There are several books of the Bible that start this way. And they're like, now after the death of Moses. You know, just to set the tone real nicely. And then, God is calling Joshua into what's next." [32:08] (39 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "God is saving his people. Not for anything that they do. In fact God is in the habit of saving the most unlikely people. God is in the habit of being faithful towards people. Who are completely and utterly faithless towards him. And disobedient towards him many times. But thank God we serve a God of second chances. God is in the habit of saving the most unlikely people. And we see that time and time again through the children of Israel." [37:02] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "When you see. The mighty works. Of an omnipotent. And powerful God. How do we respond? How should one respond. When confronted. With wonders from an omnipotent God. And it's interesting. Because we have two examples. In this chapter. One king. And one prostitute. And when I tell you which example. You ought to follow. It might upset you." [47:19] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "The mighty, omnipotent, powerful God that we serve is in the absolute business. of saving just those kinds of people. God is in the habit of saving the most unlikely people you could ever imagine. And here's the thing. Way more than just the hall of faith, you know where else Rahab ends up in Scripture? In a couple of important genealogies. Rahab is the great, great grandmother of King David. That's pretty cool. Even more than that, Rahab is the 30th great grandmother of anybody? Jesus." [57:41] (44 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "Make a regular habit of looking back at God's faithfulness. And I don't mean just in your own life. And I don't mean just in the Bible and in Scripture, although I think that you should do those things. I want to, through this series, be in the habit of looking back at how God has been faithful to this church family. For these last 70 years, God has done a mighty work in this place." [01:01:06] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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