Study 16: Joshua 9: 1-15

Study 16 on Joshua focuses on the themes of consecration, worship, and reliance on God’s guidance. Trent highlights how the Israelites, under Joshua’s leadership, navigate their spiritual journey by dedicating themselves to God, engaging in acts of worship, and acknowledging God’s presence as the bridge between curses and blessings. The study emphasizes the importance of seeking divine direction over-relying on natural senses, as illustrated by the Israelites’ experiences with both victories and deceptions. Key lessons include the necessity of spiritual discernment and the understanding that the promised land, while filled with God’s promises, also comes with challenges that require faith and obedience to overcome.

Sermon Outline

Introduction and Prayer

• Timestamp: 09:54

• Description: Opening prayer and setting the stage for the study. Emphasis on seeking God’s word and revelation for understanding and transformation.

Consecration and Worship

• Timestamp: 08:48

• Description: Discusses the Israelites’ acts of consecration and worship as they prepare to enter the Promised Land. Highlights the importance of dedicating oneself to God and the power of worship in spiritual battles.

Victory at Jericho

• Timestamp: 02:55

• Description: Recounts the miraculous victory at Jericho, emphasizing God’s grace and the role of faith in overcoming obstacles. Includes the story of Rahab and her family’s salvation.

Defeat and Repentance at Ai

• Timestamp: 03:46

• Description: Details the initial defeat at Ai due to sin in the camp and the subsequent repentance and victory. Highlights the importance of obedience and dealing with hidden sin.

The Gibeonite Deception

• Timestamp: 40:44

• Description: Describes how the Gibeonites deceived the Israelites by pretending to be from a distant land. Discusses the consequences of relying on natural senses instead of seeking God’s guidance.

Lessons in Spiritual Discernment

• Timestamp: 17:25

• Description: Explores the need for spiritual discernment and the dangers of making decisions based on appearances. Encourages seeking God’s wisdom in all situations.

Renewal of the Covenant

• Timestamp: 07:51

• Description: Covers the renewal of the covenant at Mount Ebal and Mount Gerizim. Emphasizes the importance of recommitting to God’s commandments and celebrating His blessings.

Strategy and Warfare

• Timestamp: 21:11

• Description: Discusses the ongoing spiritual warfare and the strategies employed by the enemy. Highlights the need for vigilance and reliance on God’s strength.

Trusting in God’s Plan

• Timestamp: 30:09

• Description: Encourages trusting in God’s plan and not leaning on one’s own understanding. Uses Proverbs 3:5-6 to illustrate the importance of acknowledging God in all ways.

Conclusion and Application

• Timestamp: 01:10:31

• Description: Concludes with practical applications for the listeners’ lives. Encourages making decisions based on God’s word and seeking His confirmation through prayer and community.

Scripture References

Reflection Questions

Word Study