It Wasn’t Me Part 2

The Weight of Hidden Sin: Owning Up to Achan's Mistake

Bible Passage: Jos 7:16–26

Summary: In Joshua 7:16–26, we witness the consequences of Achan's hidden sin as he takes from the spoils of Jericho, leading to Israel's defeat and ultimately his own tragic end. This passage illustrates the seriousness of disobedience to God and the impact of individual actions on the community.

Application: This sermon encourages Christians to confront their hidden sins and recognize how they can affect not just their own lives, but the lives of those around them. It emphasizes the necessity of confession, accountability, and repentance in our walk with God.

Teaching: This passage teaches the importance of integrity and obedience to God's commands. It highlights that sin, even when hidden, carries weighty consequences and that the path to restoration requires owning up to our wrongdoings.

How this passage could point to Christ: In the broader context of Scripture, the narrative of Achan points forward to Christ, who takes on our hidden sins and offers redemption. Just as Achan’s sin had communal repercussions, Christ’s sacrifice presents the opportunity for communal restoration through repentance and faith.

Big Idea: Hidden sin is weighty; owning up brings freedom and restoration.

Recommended Study: As you prepare this sermon using your Logos library, consider researching the historical context of Achan's sin and its implications on the nation of Israel. Look into the Hebrew terms used for 'sin' and 'confession' and their significance in the covenant community. You may also want to explore commentaries that address the theological implications of corporate sin as seen in this passage.

1. Sin Revealed

Jos 7:16-18

You could consider how this section describes the process of revealing hidden sin as Joshua painstakingly identifies Achan. This illustrates that hidden sins cannot remain concealed before God forever. Emphasize the communal effects of individual sin and how such burden is ultimately brought to light, disrupting peace. Reflect on how true confession can lead us away from living with hidden burdens that affect our lives and relationships.

2. Confession Required

Jos 7:19-21

Perhaps focus here on the moment of confession, where Achan admits his wrongdoing. Achan’s admission exemplifies that acknowledging our sins is the first step towards repentance and restoration. Discuss the courage it takes to own up to one’s mistakes and the freedom confession can bring, but also the seriousness of hiding sin, referencing Achan’s tragic consequence as a cautionary tale. Encourage embracing confession as a path towards healing rather than punishment.

3. Burden Relieved

Jos 7:22-26

Maybe delve into the consequences of Achan's actions that result in a grave outcome. Stress the importance of understanding the repercussions of sin. However, emphasize that Christ's sacrifice and forgiveness offer redemption even for the gravest of sins. Connect Achan's story to the Christian narrative where Christ bears our burdens and hidden sins, allowing us to find restoration through true repentance. Highlight the transformative power of bringing hidden sins to light, through Christ.