Joshua 17-18

Possessing Our Promised Land: Lessons from Joshua 17-18

Bible Passage: Joshua 17, Joshua 18

Summary: In Joshua 17-18, the distribution of the land among the tribes of Israel is highlighted, particularly focusing on the challenges faced by the tribes of Manasseh and the importance of taking possession of what God has promised.

Application: This passage encourages Christians to actively pursue the promises of God in their lives, reminding them that while God's promises are secured, there is an urgency to claim and live them out amidst challenges and uncertainties.

Teaching: The sermon emphasizes the need for action in faith and the understanding that God's promises require us to work towards their fulfillment, illustrating that reliance on God's presence can help overcome obstacles.

How this passage could point to Christ: In the broader context of scripture, the land God promised to Israel represents the spiritual inheritance and salvation found in Christ. Just as Israel was to occupy their promised land, Christians are invited to enter into the fullness of life offered through Jesus, who ultimately fulfills God's promises.

Big Idea: God calls us to seize the promises He has made, even in the face of challenges, by stepping forward in faith and trust.

Recommended Study: As you prepare this sermon, consider using Logos to dive deeper into the historical and geographical context of Joshua 17-18, focusing on the implications of land distribution. Investigate different translations and commentaries that discuss the significance of Manasseh's challenges in claiming their inheritance, and explore how these themes apply to contemporary believers. Pay special attention to the role of faith in action as emphasized in these passages.

1. Pursue with Perseverance

Joshua 17:1-6

You could highlight how the challenges faced by the tribe of Manasseh in claiming their inheritance illustrate the need for perseverance and faith to embrace God's promises. Despite the obstacles and fear of the giants in the land, divine inheritance requires active involvement. Connect this to the idea that through Christ, all believers have spiritual blessings waiting for them, and they too must step forward in faith amidst life’s obstacles.

2. Push Past Reluctance

Joshua 17:7-18

Maybe consider discussing the complaints of the tribe of Joseph about their land. Despite their large numbers and need for more space, their reluctance to clear the forested hill country reflects a lack of action. Encourage your listeners that while God’s promises are freely given, they require our dedication and effort to realize. Just as Israel needed to clear the land, Christians need to actively remove spiritual obstacles, relying on Christ's strength.

3. Prompted into Action

Joshua 18:1-7

Perhaps illustrate how the hesitation shown by the remaining tribes to occupy their inheritance serves as a reminder of the importance of faith-driven action. Relate it to how believers sometimes delay walking in their God-given calling. Through Christ’s triumph over sin and death, Christians are empowered to step into their spiritual inheritance without fear, actively embracing God's promises today.

4. Plan with Purpose

Joshua 18:8-10

You could emphasize the proactive steps taken by Joshua to survey the land and delineate it for each tribe. Relating this to Christ's work in defining and making accessible the spiritual inheritance for believers, encourage your congregation to embrace intentionality and clarity in their spiritual journey, knowing that they can rest in Christ's provision even as they take each step.