Strong andCourageous

Joshua 1:1-11, 16-18

The Point

God calls His people to move forward in faith, trusting His presence and obeying His Word.

Introduction

The death of Moses marked the end of an era in Israel's history. For forty years Moses had led God's people through the wilderness. Now Joshua faced the daunting task of leading the nation into the Promised Land. Humanly speaking, the challenge seemed overwhelming, but God repeatedly reminded Joshua that success would not depend on his abilities but on God's presence and God's promises. The same principle remains true for believers today. God calls His people to faith-filled obedience, assuring them that He is with them wherever He leads.

1. God's Commission

Joshua 1:1-5

Key Phrase

"Now arise, cross this Jordan" (v. 2)

Truth

God's work continues even when His servants pass from the scene.

Cross References

· Deuteronomy 34:9

· Psalm 90:17

· Matthew 28:18-20

· 2 Timothy 2:2

Theological Insight

God's purposes are never dependent upon one human leader. He sovereignly raises up servants to accomplish His will.

Practical Application

Believers should focus on God's mission rather than personalities. God remains faithful across generations.

Key Phrase

"I will be with you; I will not fail you or forsake you" (v. 5)

Cross References

· Deuteronomy 31:6,8

· Hebrews 13:5-6

· Isaiah 41:10

· Matthew 28:20

Practical Application

Courage comes from God's presence, not our circumstances.

2. God's Encouragement

Joshua 1:6-9

Key Phrase

"Be strong and courageous" (vv. 6,7,9)

Truth

Godly courage is rooted in confidence in God's promises.

Cross References

· Psalm 27:1

· Ephesians 6:10

· 2 Timothy 1:7

· Philippians 4:13

Theological Insight

Biblical courage is not self-confidence but God-confidence.

Practical Application

When facing uncertainty, believers should focus on God's character rather than their fears.

Key Phrase

"Be careful to do according to all the law" (v. 7)

Cross References

· Psalm 1:1-3

· James 1:22

· John 14:15

· 2 Timothy 3:16-17

Truth

Spiritual success is connected to obedience to God's revealed Word.

Practical Application

God's people must know, meditate on, and obey Scripture.

Key Phrase

"This book of the law shall not depart from your mouth" (v. 8)

Cross References

· Psalm 119:11

· Psalm 119:97

· Colossians 3:16

· Joshua 23:6

Practical Application

Daily meditation on God's Word strengthens faith and guides decisions.

3. God's Confirmation

Joshua 1:10-11,16-18

Key Phrase

"Prepare provisions for yourselves" (v. 11)

Truth

Faith trusts God's promises and acts accordingly.

Cross References

· James 2:17

· Hebrews 11:1

· Hebrews 11:30

· Proverbs 3:5-6

Practical Application

Obedience often requires action before we see the outcome.

Key Phrase

"All that you have commanded us we will do" (v. 16)

Cross References

· Exodus 24:3

· Romans 13:1

· Hebrews 13:17

· 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13

Theological Insight

God often works through appointed leadership to accomplish His purposes.

Practical Application

Healthy churches flourish when leaders lead biblically and members follow faithfully.

Key Phrase

"Only be strong and courageous" (v. 18)

Truth

The people's encouragement echoed God's command.

Cross References

· Deuteronomy 31:7

· Joshua 10:25

· 1 Corinthians 16:13

· Ephesians 6:10

Practical Application

Believers should encourage one another toward faithfulness and courage.

Live It Out

Because God Is Present

Trust God's promises when facing uncertain circumstances.

Because God Has Spoken

Commit yourself to regular reading, meditation, and obedience to Scripture.

Because God Is Faithful

Move forward in faith even when the path ahead is unknown.

Discussion Questions

1. Why do you think God repeatedly told Joshua to be strong and courageous?

2. How does God's promise of His presence help us face difficult situations?

3. What does Joshua 1:8 teach about the importance of Scripture?

4. How are courage and obedience connected?

5. What challenge in your life currently requires faith and courage?

6. How can our class encourage one another to remain faithful to God's calling?

Memory Verse

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not be terrified or dismayed, for Yahweh your God is with you wherever you go." (Joshua 1:9, LSB)

This follows the typical Explore the Bible structure of God's Commission (1:1-5), God's Encouragement (1:6-9), and God's Confirmation (1:10-11,16-18) built directly from the focal passage.