Sermon Study Guide

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Maranatha Bible Church

Chicago

Sermon Study Guide

Joshua 5 Bible Study (New Generation Circumcised/First Passover in Canaan) | Pastor Daniel Batarseh

Pastor Daniel Batarseh|Monday, June 1, 2020

Scripture References

Joshua 5Joshua 4:24Joshua 2:11Psalms 130:4Genesis 34:25Exodus 3

Sermon Summary

After crossing the Jordan, Israel prepares for conquest through circumcision, the Passover, and a divine encounter. Pastor Daniel Batarseh explores how covenant commitment and a proper fear of God are prerequisites for experiencing His promises.

Key Takeaways

1God’s goodness and forgiveness should lead to a holy fear and deeper reverence of Him, not a casual attitude.
2Personal covenant with God is a non-negotiable prerequisite for experiencing the fullness of His promises.
3True faith often requires obedience when it is most inconvenient or makes us feel most vulnerable.
4God’s provision is equally present in supernatural miracles and in the practical rewards of our daily labor.
5God reveals specific aspects of His character (e.g., Warrior, Provider, Father) to equip us for the specific tasks He has assigned.

Discussion Questions

Use these questions for small group discussion or personal reflection.

1Why do you think God wanted the pagan kings to feel fear? How does this relate to His desire for their surrender?
2Pastor Batarseh mentioned that 'forgiveness' should lead to 'fear' (Psalm 130:4). How does this change your perspective on God's mercy?
3The Israelite soldiers were circumcised while 'behind enemy lines.' What does this teach us about the timing of God's commands versus our own sense of security?
4Why is it dangerous to only view God in one dimension (e.g., only as a Father or only as a Friend)?
5How do we transition from relying on 'manna' (miracles) to 'eating the produce of the land' (practical provision) without losing our sense of dependence on God?
6In your current season of life, which 'manifestation' of God do you need most: the Miracle Worker (Burning Bush) or the Commander (Warrior)?

Application Points

Practical ways to apply this message to your life.

Examine your heart for 'spiritual negligence'—refuse to blame your upbringing or past environment for your current lack of commitment to God.
Practice 'holy fear' by meditating on the immense cost of God's forgiveness through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.
Identify an area where God is asking for obedience that feels 'awkward' or 'risky' and choose to trust His protection over your own strategy.
Give thanks for 'practical' provisions like your job or health, recognizing them as extensions of God's grace just as much as a miracle.
Study the different attributes of God in Scripture so that you have the 'necessary revelation' ready when you face different trials.

Personal Reflection

Take time to quietly reflect on these prompts.

How is the Holy Spirit speaking to me through this message?

What areas of my life need to change in light of this teaching?

Who can I share this truth with this week?

What is one specific action I will take as a result of this sermon?

Prayer Points

Thank God for His Word and the truths revealed in this message.
Pray for understanding and wisdom to apply what you've learned.
Ask the Holy Spirit to help you live out these truths in your daily life.
Pray for others who heard this message, that they too would be transformed.

Notes

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