Overview: The Book of Joshua

The Title of the Book

In the Hebrew text - Joshua with Yehôšūa‘ as a subtitle

Means “Yahweh saves” or “Yahweh is salvation”

Be Strong and Courageous: Embracing God's Promises

Bible Passage: Jos 1:1-18

Summary: In Joshua 1:1-18, God commands Joshua to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land after the death of Moses. He assures Joshua of His presence and faithfulness, urging him to be strong, courageous, and obedient to the Law given to them. This passage serves as a powerful reminder of God's promises and His call to trust Him in difficult times.

Application: This sermon will encourage Christians to embrace their God-given call in the face of challenges and uncertainties. By understanding God's promises, our struggles can be met with strength and courage, reinforcing our faith in God's guidance and provision during life's journey.

Teaching: The teaching focuses on how God equips and empowers us to fulfill His calling. We learn that obedience to God's Word is the foundation of strength and courage, leading us to the fulfillment of His promises.

How this passage could point to Christ: This passage foreshadows Christ, the ultimate leader who guides His people into the Promised Land of eternal life. Just as God reassured Joshua, Christ reinforces His promise through the Great Commission, commissioning His followers with the assurance of His presence until the end of the age (Matthew 28:20).

Big Idea: God empowers His people to be strong and courageous in pursuing His promises, reminding us that our strength comes from Him alone as we step into our calling in faith.

Recommended Study: As you prepare this sermon, consider exploring the historical context of Joshua's leadership transition from Moses. Using Logos, delve into commentaries that discuss the themes of courage and obedience in this passage. Examine the Hebrew terms for strength and courage and how they are employed throughout the Old Testament to enrich your understanding of their significance.

1. Promise of God's Presence

Jos 1:1-5

You could highlight how God reassures Joshua immediately after the death of Moses, emphasizing that His presence remains constant and powerful. This point can drive home the message that God's promises are not dependent on a single leader but are fulfilled through Christ, the ultimate leader. Encouraging believers to lean on God's enduring presence provides the foundation to face challenges with renewed strength and confidence in their divine calling.

What specific promises does God make to Joshua in Joshua 1:1-5?

How can we personally apply the command to be strong and courageous in our daily lives?

2. Power through Obedience

Jos 1:6-9

Perhaps explore how God commands Joshua to be strong and courageous because success in fulfilling God's promises requires unwavering faith and adherence to His word. This section is an opportunity to stress that true courage and strength come from obedience and meditating on God's teachings, pointing to Jesus as the Word made flesh who empowers us. Encouraging meditation on the Scriptures is essential for developing inward strength.

3. People United in Mission

Jos 1:10-15

Maybe discuss how Joshua’s leadership involves rallying the tribes of Israel, illustrating the importance of unity and trust among God's people as they follow His leading into new territories. This cooperative action reflects how Christ leads His unified Church in mission, instilling courage through community. Highlighting the collective journey under God's command can inspire listeners to see themselves as part of a greater mission.

4. Promise of Mutual Commitment

Jos 1:16-18

Consider how the people's promise to follow Joshua mirrors a commitment to follow Christ today. This point can underscore the importance of mutual commitment and accountability within the Christian community, where Christ's leadership inspires shared courage. Encouraging believers to support one another as they commit to Christ's mission can enhance their collective strength and adherence to their divine call.