These Stones: Markers of God’s grace

Intro

Sermon Title: “These Stones: Markers of God’s Faithfulness”

Main Point: Remembering God’s faithfulness helps us remain faithful.

I. God Is With Us When He Calls Us

Text: Joshua 3:12–17

A. God’s Presence Goes Before Us

-The Ark of the Covenant represented the very presence and promise of God.

-As the priests stepped into the Jordan, the waters stopped—a miraculous reminder that God is present at every step.

Application: God is with you when He calls you to something new—whether it's ministry, school, relationships, or healing from past hurt.

B. Obedience Requires Movement

-The water didn’t part until their feet touched it.

-Faith requires action, even when we can’t see the full plan.

Illustration: Stepping out before the miracle—like Peter stepping out of the boat.

Challenge: Where is God calling you to step out in faith today?

II. Spiritual Milestones Help Us Remember

Text: Joshua 4:1–7

A. Stones as Symbols of God’s Power

Twelve stones taken from the Jordan were set up as a memorial for future generations.

“What do these stones mean to you?”—a personal call to remember what God has done.

Application: Keep a spiritual journal, a prayer box, or a photo wall—some way to see God’s faithfulness.

B. Remembering Builds Testimony

These stones weren’t just for those who crossed the Jordan—they were for the generations to come.

Forgetfulness leads to unfaithfulness. Remembrance inspires trust and obedience.

Quote: “The greatest threat to future faithfulness is present forgetfulness.”

III. Remembering Points Us to Jesus

Text: Christ Connection

A. Joshua’s Leadership Foreshadowed Christ

Joshua leads the people into the Promised Land. Jesus leads us into the Kingdom of God.

Joshua’s name in Hebrew is “Yeshua”—Jesus.

Application: Jesus is our true deliverer, the one who made a way where there was no way—through the cross, not the Jordan.

B. The Cross as Our Ultimate Memorial Stone

Just as the Israelites looked to the stones to remember the miracle, we look to the cross to remember God’s love and grace.

Communion, baptism, testimonies—all ways the church remembers the saving work of Jesus.

IV. Don’t Just Remember the Good—Learn from the Brokenness

Text: Joshua 4 and Reflections

A. The Stones Also Point to Past Disobedience

The joy of crossing the Jordan was also a reminder of those who never made it—due to unbelief and disobedience.

Application: Let past failure drive you to present obedience.

Don’t be ashamed to remember. God’s grace covers the past and propels us into His purpose.

Conclusion: What Are Your Stones?

What are the moments in your life where God showed up?

What can you build to remember?

How can you use those “stones” to share God’s faithfulness with others?

Invitation: Take time this week to mark a moment—write, create, or tell someone how God has been faithful. And ask yourself, “What do these stones mean to me?”