Faithfulness and Obedience: Lessons from the Old Testament
Summary
### Summary
In the beginning, there was chaos, and then God spoke, creating light, land, and life itself. This marks the start of the Old Testament, a collection of sacred texts that narrate God's relationship with humanity. From the creation of the world to the formation of the nation of Israel, the Old Testament weaves together history, poetry, prophecy, and wisdom literature. It introduces us to pillars of our faith, like Abraham, Moses, and King David, and reveals God's faithfulness, justice, and mercy. The Old Testament lays the foundation for the coming of the Messiah and offers timeless lessons for humanity. Together, we will see that the Old Testament is about believing in God and following His word.
When I was in high school, our youth group often visited Saranac Lake in the Adirondacks. One of our favorite activities was hiking up Mount Ampersand. The trail is challenging but rewarding, offering a beautiful view from the summit. This experience is akin to studying the Old Testament from a high vantage point. Just as a drone can provide a comprehensive view of a mountain trail, our 10-week series aims to give you a broad understanding of the Old Testament. This overview will help you navigate the individual stories and understand the overarching narrative of God's relationship with humanity.
We began our journey with the leadership transition from Moses to Joshua. Moses led the Israelites out of Egypt but was not allowed to enter the Promised Land. Joshua, trained by Moses, took over and led the Israelites into the Promised Land. Joshua 1:9-18 sets the stage for his leadership, emphasizing faith and courage. Joshua commanded the officers to prepare the people to cross the Jordan River and take possession of the land God had promised them. The people responded with obedience and faith, ready to follow Joshua as they had followed Moses.
The story of Israel is a cycle of faith and disobedience. When the Israelites placed their faith in God, things went well. However, when they strayed and adopted the practices of surrounding nations, things spiraled out of control. This pattern is evident in the book of Judges, where Israel repeatedly falls into sin, faces oppression, cries out to God, and is delivered by judges. These judges, like Gideon and Samson, were flawed individuals, yet God used them to deliver Israel.
As we moved into the book of Samuel, we saw Israel's desire for a king to be like other nations. Despite God's warning through Samuel that a king would bring hardships, the people insisted. God allowed them to have a king, starting with Saul, followed by David. This period highlights the tension between human desires and God's will. Even though the people often made poor choices, God's love and faithfulness remained constant.
The overarching message of the Old Testament is to believe in God and obey His word. When the Israelites did this, they experienced success and blessings. Joshua's final words to the people encapsulate this message: "Choose today whom you will serve... But as for me and my family, we will serve the Lord" (Joshua 24:15). This call to faithfulness is timeless and relevant for us today.
In conclusion, the Old Testament is a rich tapestry of stories that reveal God's character and His relationship with humanity. It teaches us about faith, obedience, and the consequences of straying from God's path. As we continue our study, let us place our faith in God and strive to live according to His word.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Importance of a Broad Perspective: Just as a drone provides a comprehensive view of a mountain trail, studying the Old Testament from a high vantage point helps us understand the overarching narrative of God's relationship with humanity. This broad perspective allows us to navigate individual stories with greater clarity and insight. [01:34]
2. Leadership and Faith: The transition from Moses to Joshua highlights the importance of faith and obedience in leadership. Joshua's command to the Israelites to prepare to cross the Jordan River and take possession of the Promised Land demonstrates the power of faith in action. When we trust in God's promises and act in faith, we can overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles. [04:47]
3. The Cycle of Faith and Disobedience: The book of Judges illustrates the cyclical nature of Israel's faith and disobedience. When the Israelites placed their faith in God, they experienced deliverance and blessings. However, when they strayed and adopted the practices of surrounding nations, they faced oppression and hardship. This cycle serves as a reminder of the importance of remaining faithful to God. [15:53]
4. Human Desires vs. God's Will: Israel's desire for a king to be like other nations highlights the tension between human desires and God's will. Despite God's warning through Samuel, the people insisted on having a king. This story teaches us that while God allows us to make choices, our desires may not always align with His will. It is crucial to seek God's guidance and align our desires with His plans. [25:55]
5. Faithfulness and Obedience: Joshua's final words to the Israelites emphasize the importance of choosing to serve the Lord. "Choose today whom you will serve... But as for me and my family, we will serve the Lord" (Joshua 24:15). This call to faithfulness and obedience is timeless and relevant for us today. When we place our faith in God and live according to His word, we experience His blessings and guidance. [12:40]
### Youtube Chapters
1. [0:00] - Welcome
2. [01:34] - The Old Testament from 30,000 Feet
3. [03:07] - The Purpose of Our Study
4. [04:47] - Leadership Transition: Moses to Joshua
5. [06:39] - Joshua's Command and Israel's Response
6. [08:09] - Faith and Obedience in Joshua
7. [09:33] - The Battles and Division of the Land
8. [11:15] - Joshua's Final Words
9. [12:40] - The Call to Serve the Lord
10. [14:18] - The Bible Project and Additional Resources
11. [15:53] - The Book of Judges: A Cycle of Faith and Disobedience
12. [17:52] - The Influence of Surrounding Nations
13. [19:40] - The Book of Ruth and the Lineage of David
14. [22:01] - Israel's Desire for a King
15. [23:50] - Conclusion and Reflection
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Joshua 1:9-18 - "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." So Joshua ordered the officers of the people: “Go through the camp and tell the people, ‘Get your provisions ready. Three days from now you will cross the Jordan here to go in and take possession of the land the Lord your God is giving you for your own.’” Then Joshua called together the Reubenites, the Gadites and the half-tribe of Manasseh and said to them, “Remember the command that Moses the servant of the Lord gave you after he said, ‘The Lord your God will give you rest by giving you this land.’ Your wives, your children and your livestock may stay in the land that Moses gave you east of the Jordan, but all your fighting men, ready for battle, must cross over ahead of your fellow Israelites. You are to help them until the Lord gives them rest, as he has done for you, and until they too have taken possession of the land the Lord your God is giving them. After that, you may go back and occupy your own land, which Moses the servant of the Lord gave you east of the Jordan toward the sunrise.” Then they answered Joshua, “Whatever you have commanded us we will do, and wherever you send us we will go. Just as we fully obeyed Moses, so we will obey you. Only may the Lord your God be with you as he was with Moses. Whoever rebels against your word and does not obey it, whatever you may command them, will be put to death. Only be strong and courageous!”
2. Judges 21:25 - "In those days Israel had no king; everyone did as they saw fit."
3. Joshua 24:15 - "But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.”
#### Observation Questions
1. What command did Joshua give to the officers of Israel in Joshua 1:9-18? How did the people respond? ([06:39])
2. According to Judges 21:25, what was the state of leadership in Israel during the time of the Judges? ([15:53])
3. What choice does Joshua present to the Israelites in Joshua 24:15, and what decision does he declare for himself and his household? ([11:15])
4. How does the sermon describe the cycle of faith and disobedience in the book of Judges? ([15:53])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. What does Joshua 1:9-18 teach us about the importance of faith and obedience in leadership? How did Joshua's leadership reflect these qualities? ([06:39])
2. How does the cycle of faith and disobedience in Judges illustrate the consequences of straying from God's path? What can we learn from this pattern? ([15:53])
3. In Joshua 24:15, Joshua challenges the Israelites to choose whom they will serve. Why is this choice significant, and how does it reflect the overarching message of the Old Testament? ([11:15])
4. The sermon mentions that Israel's desire for a king was driven by a desire to be like other nations. How does this reflect the tension between human desires and God's will? ([25:55])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you had to make a significant decision. How did you seek God's guidance in that situation? How can Joshua's example of faith and obedience inspire you in future decisions? ([06:39])
2. The book of Judges shows a cycle of faith and disobedience. Are there any patterns in your life where you find yourself drifting away from God? What steps can you take to remain faithful? ([15:53])
3. Joshua's declaration in Joshua 24:15 is a powerful statement of commitment. What does it mean for you to serve the Lord in your daily life? How can you make this commitment more evident in your actions? ([11:15])
4. Israel's desire for a king was driven by a desire to conform to the surrounding nations. Are there areas in your life where you feel pressured to conform to societal norms rather than following God's will? How can you align your desires with God's plans? ([25:55])
5. The sermon emphasizes the importance of a broad perspective in understanding the Old Testament. How can you apply this principle to your own Bible study? What steps can you take to gain a deeper understanding of God's word? ([01:34])
6. Reflect on the story of the Israelites crossing the Jordan River. What "Jordan Rivers" are you facing in your life that require faith and courage? How can you trust in God's promises and take action? ([06:39])
7. The sermon mentions the importance of faithfulness and obedience. What specific areas of your life do you need to surrender to God to experience His blessings and guidance? ([12:40])
Devotional
Day 1: Understanding God's Grand Narrative
The Importance of a Broad Perspective
The Old Testament is a rich tapestry of history, poetry, prophecy, and wisdom literature that narrates God's relationship with humanity. By studying it from a high vantage point, we can see the overarching narrative of God's faithfulness, justice, and mercy. This broad perspective helps us navigate individual stories with greater clarity and insight, much like how a drone provides a comprehensive view of a mountain trail. Understanding the big picture allows us to appreciate the interconnectedness of the events and teachings in the Old Testament, and how they lay the foundation for the coming of the Messiah. This approach helps us see the timeless lessons and the continuous thread of God's love and guidance throughout history. [01:34]
Isaiah 46:9-10 (ESV): "Remember the former things of old; for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me, declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, ‘My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose.’"
Reflection: How does understanding the broad narrative of the Old Testament change your perspective on individual stories and events? Can you identify a specific story that has new meaning for you in light of the bigger picture?
Day 2: Faith in Leadership
Leadership and Faith
The transition from Moses to Joshua highlights the importance of faith and obedience in leadership. Joshua, trained by Moses, was tasked with leading the Israelites into the Promised Land. His command to the Israelites to prepare to cross the Jordan River and take possession of the land demonstrates the power of faith in action. Joshua's leadership was marked by his unwavering trust in God's promises and his courage to act on them. This story teaches us that when we trust in God's promises and act in faith, we can overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles. It also emphasizes the importance of preparing and equipping ourselves and others for the tasks God has set before us. [04:47]
Joshua 1:9 (ESV): "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: In what areas of your life do you need to exercise more faith and courage? How can you prepare yourself to take action on God's promises today?
Day 3: The Cycle of Faithfulness
The Cycle of Faith and Disobedience
The book of Judges illustrates the cyclical nature of Israel's faith and disobedience. When the Israelites placed their faith in God, they experienced deliverance and blessings. However, when they strayed and adopted the practices of surrounding nations, they faced oppression and hardship. This cycle serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of remaining faithful to God. It shows us that our actions have consequences and that straying from God's path leads to difficulties. Yet, it also highlights God's mercy and willingness to deliver us when we repent and turn back to Him. This pattern is not just historical but is relevant to our spiritual journey today. [15:53]
Judges 2:18-19 (ESV): "Whenever the Lord raised up judges for them, the Lord was with the judge, and he saved them from the hand of their enemies all the days of the judge. For the Lord was moved to pity by their groaning because of those who afflicted and oppressed them. But whenever the judge died, they turned back and were more corrupt than their fathers, going after other gods, serving them and bowing down to them. They did not drop any of their practices or their stubborn ways."
Reflection: Reflect on a time when you experienced the consequences of straying from God's path. How did you find your way back to Him, and what steps can you take to remain faithful in your current walk with God?
Day 4: Aligning Desires with God's Will
Human Desires vs. God's Will
Israel's desire for a king to be like other nations highlights the tension between human desires and God's will. Despite God's warning through Samuel that a king would bring hardships, the people insisted on having a king. This story teaches us that while God allows us to make choices, our desires may not always align with His will. It is crucial to seek God's guidance and align our desires with His plans. When we insist on our own way, we may face unintended consequences. However, God's love and faithfulness remain constant, and He continues to guide us back to His path. This narrative encourages us to trust in God's wisdom and seek His will above our own. [25:55]
1 Samuel 8:6-7 (ESV): "But the thing displeased Samuel when they said, ‘Give us a king to judge us.’ And Samuel prayed to the Lord. And the Lord said to Samuel, ‘Obey the voice of the people in all that they say to you, for they have not rejected you, but they have rejected me from being king over them.’"
Reflection: Are there areas in your life where your desires conflict with God's will? How can you seek God's guidance to align your desires with His plans today?
Day 5: Choosing to Serve the Lord
Faithfulness and Obedience
Joshua's final words to the Israelites emphasize the importance of choosing to serve the Lord. "Choose today whom you will serve... But as for me and my family, we will serve the Lord" (Joshua 24:15). This call to faithfulness and obedience is timeless and relevant for us today. When we place our faith in God and live according to His word, we experience His blessings and guidance. This choice is not a one-time decision but a daily commitment to follow God and obey His commands. It requires intentionality and dedication to live a life that honors God. Joshua's declaration serves as a powerful reminder to continually choose to serve the Lord in all aspects of our lives. [12:40]
Joshua 24:15 (ESV): "And if it is evil in your eyes to serve the Lord, choose this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your fathers served in the region beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord."
Reflection: What does it mean for you and your family to serve the Lord today? How can you make intentional choices to honor God in your daily life and encourage your family to do the same?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "When they are leading through faith in God, what we see through these scriptures is that when you have faith in God, right, our overarching understanding of the entire Old Testament is found in just the short little words, believe in God and obey him through his word. When the people of Israel are doing that, they're successful. It may not be easy, it may not be perfect, but they are doing what God is asking of them, and they're fulfilling the picture of God." [08:09]
2. "The whole point in doing this study of the Old Testament from 30,000 feet is not that through these 10 weeks you have the full picture and understanding of what the Old Testament is, right? Because the reality of why you would use the drone to see the path from above is because that helps you to walk the actual path." [03:07]
3. "When our hearts are truly after who God is when our hearts are going in the way that God is the first thing we just got through our our series on Jesus at our center when Jesus and God when they're at your center we're not trotting out there with the ark saying ha we've got the hot rod now and you can't defeat us because we have this special card in our back pocket God is not on your side or against you God is who he is he is for us to worship he has created the world in a beautiful place and he loves people." [22:01]
4. "The real moral of the point of the book of Ruth is that the lineage of King David comes through the book of Ruth that I find it fascinating as you look through the Old Testament you'll see that the lineage of King David comes through the book of Ruth and it's so understood that the role of women and the role of children are so diminished and not allowed but yet there are some so important women to the story of God so important to the story of bringing Jesus here into the world." [19:40]
5. "When things are growing great sometimes we tend to fall away from our faith in who God is and when times get hard sometimes that is what brings us back to who God is that's what happened over and over and over and over again through these people and we're still people and we're still people and we're still people." [23:50]
### Quotes for Members
1. "When Israel becomes more like the Canaanites and that does happen the things of the surrounding world come in when their guard is down things spiral out of control and next week we're going to look a little further into the first and second Samuel Israel at this point is now asking for a king because they want to be like the people around them and what's so fascinating is that through Samuel God says let me tell you you don't want a king let me tell you you don't want to be like those around you all of your reasonings are wrong for why you want to have a king." [25:55]
2. "But as we know from the story God doesn't stop it God doesn't say you cannot have a king he allows them to have a king but he doesn't stop it he allows them to have a king he allows them to have what they desire even though his understanding of why they want it is wrong because we have the opportunity to make choices for ourselves and even though God has all these people that are being used in his in his ways there are good that comes out of them there are bad that comes out of them but through the entire Old Testament so far we know God loves people he created us for a reason and he loves people and he loves people and he loves people he loves us unconditionally through all of this story God is constant the people go up and down the stories go up and down the the experiences that these people have had spiral out of control and God is constant and when the people are right with God that's when the line is on the incline that's when line the the understand the the life that we are living is in line with who God is that's when we're in line with who God is and that's when we're in line with who God is going in the best direction so as people of God the encouragement here is that regardless of what you've experienced in your life God can and will use you the ultimate question becomes are you willing to be used by God are you willing to place him at the top of your level the top of your interest to do the work that he is asking for us." [27:47]
3. "In those days Israel had no king and all of the people did whatever seemed right in their own eyes you know you go back to the passage in Joshua where it talks about how the land that they are being that they are living in have villages that were not built by them and and olive groves that were not planted by them and vineyards that were not planted by them all these things that they were able to enjoy and use but yet they did not have to do the work to create them God handed these things over to them and through the wars that they won it wasn't their understanding wasn't that they went and they went ahead and we'll see here shortly that when they try to do that it doesn't really work out well for them but when they're following what God has asked it's not their bow it's not their sword it's the hand of God that's delivering what he has promised to them and as the leadership falls further and further and further away this is a gory gory gory book and the people of Israel going through their lives and doing whatever seemed right in their own eyes." [15:53]
4. "Joshua 24, 11 through 15, is part of Joshua's final words as the leader of the people. And he says, when you crossed the Jordan River and came to Jericho, the men of Jericho fought against you, as did the Amorites, the Perizzites, the Canaanites, and the Hittites, the Girgashites, the Hevites, and the Jebusites. But I gave you victory over them, and I sent terror ahead of you to drive out the two kings of the Amorites. It was not your sword or the bows that brought you down. It was not your sword or the bows that brought you down. It was not your victory. I gave you land that you had not worked on. I gave you towns you did not build, the towns that you are now living in. I gave you vineyards and olive groves for food, though you did not plant them. So fear the Lord and serve him wholeheartedly. Put away forever the idols your ancestors worshipped when they lived beyond the Euphrates River and in Egypt. Serve the Lord alone. But if you refuse to serve the Lord, then choose today whom you will serve. And if you refuse to serve the Lord, then choose today whom you will serve. But you prefer the gods of your ancestors served by the Euphrates. Or will it be the gods of the Amorites in whose land you now live? But Joshua says, but as for me and my family, we will serve the Lord. We will serve the Lord." [11:15]
5. "When Joshua was near the town of Jericho, he looked up and he saw a man standing in front of him, the sword in hand. Joshua went up to him and demanded, are you a man or a foe? One, he replied, I am the commander of the Lord's army. At this, Joshua fell with his face to the ground in reverence. I am at your command, Joshua said. What do you want your servant to do? The commander of the Lord's army replied, take off your sandals and the place you are standing is holy ground. Joshua led out of faith. The Israelite people, you look at today's wars and everything, and it's really easy to fall into that trap that God is for the Israelite people and he's against every other types of people, but that obviously has changed with Jesus. God is for peace and harmony within the land, however that is to come about. And he instructs his people of how to live their life, and when they follow what he asks, things go the way that God wants them to go." [09:33]
Chatbot
-
I'm an AI bot trained specifically on the sermon from May 18, 2024. Do you have any questions about it?