Cut Wood

Joshua 17:14–18

I. Introduction

A. Joshua the Conquering Captain

1. Joshua in charge after Moses died

2. Moses stands for the Law

3. Joshua a type of Christ (John 1:17)

B. Joshua Dividing Canaan

Each tribe receiving its portion

Canaan pictures the Christian life

We have battles to win; territory to conquer

C. The Tribe of Joseph Receives Its Land

The largest of the tribes

The tribe from which Joshua came

II. Body

A. The Complaint of the Tribe of Joseph (v. 14)

1. “Why … only one lot?”

a. They thought their lot too small

b. They thought they deserved better

2. The pride in their protest:

a. “I am a great people”

b. “Even used the Lord’s name to complain”

c. “Many Christians are not content”

a. “The church doesn’t recognize my talent”

b. “Why can’t I have that position?”

c. They complain constantly

Godliness with contentment is great gain 1 Timothy 6:6–8

1 Timothy 6:6–8 NKJV

Now godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content.

B. The Counsel of Joshua (v. 15)

1. Joshua tells them to cut wood

2. Now the truth comes out

a. Clearing the land will take work

b. The tribe doesn’t want the job

3. Lessons for us from this griping group

a. Salvation by faith but work follows (Eph. 2:8–10)

b. Reaching our potential requires work

In the parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14-30), we see a master who entrusts his servants with resources. One servant, out of fear and laziness, buries his talent and returns it unchanged.

This story illustrates that when we fail to invest our God-given gifts, we not only squander them but also stifle our potential for greater reward. As stewards of His blessings, hard work in developing our talents is crucial for the glory of God and the benefit of His kingdom.

4. What are you doing to develop your lot?

C. The Chariots of Iron (v. 16)

1. The enemy is strong (Satan)

2. We are at war with powerful forces (Eph. 6:12–18)

3. We are equipped to win

a. We have the armor of God (Eph. 6)

b. We have the Holy Spirit (1 John 4:4)

4. The chariots of iron were a distant threat (v. 16)

a. They needed to cut that wood first

b. Then they could defeat the iron chariots (v. 18)

III. Conclusion

A. Let Us Serve God Where We Are … Now

B. He Will Give Strength to Work and Win Each Day