Sermon Study Guide

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Maranatha Bible Church

Chicago

Sermon Study Guide

Joshua 24 Bible Study (Covenant Renewal at Shechem/Joshua's Death & Burial) | Pastor Daniel Batarseh

Pastor Daniel Batarseh|Wednesday, December 16, 2020

Scripture References

Joshua 24:1-33Genesis 12Genesis 35:2-4Acts 7:2Exodus 2:23Romans 8:32Numbers 23:19-20Revelation 12:10-11Romans 8:38-39Romans 6:16Joshua 4:20Joshua 7:26Joshua 8:29Joshua 10:271 Timothy 6:12

Sermon Summary

In his final address, Joshua recounts God’s faithfulness to Israel and calls for a sincere, exclusive commitment. He famously declares his household's devotion to the Lord, urging all believers to choose their master wisely.

Key Takeaways

1God's faithfulness is the foundation for our commitment; He often finds us in a state of 'idolatry' and transforms us for His glory.
2Neutrality in the spiritual life is a myth; you are always a slave to whatever you obey, whether it be sin, self, or God.
3God is holy and jealous, meaning He desires an exclusive relationship and will not settle for a divided heart.
4A true spiritual legacy is measured by whether your life causes those around you to love and serve God more fervently.

Discussion Questions

Use these questions for small group discussion or personal reflection.

1Why did Joshua emphasize Abraham's idolatrous background before calling the people to serve God?
2Pastor Daniel mentioned that we don't choose 'whether' to serve, but 'whom' to serve. Who or what are the most common 'masters' people serve today?
3How does the concept of God being 'jealous' change your perspective on your daily choices and entertainment?
4Which of the five 'memorial stones' mentioned at the end of the sermon do you need to be reminded of most right now?
5Joshua made his decision before he knew how the rest of the nation would respond. How can we develop that kind of independent spiritual boldness?
6What practical steps can you take to ensure your household 'serves the Lord' in an increasingly secular culture?

Application Points

Practical ways to apply this message to your life.

Identify the 'idols' in your life (such as money, approval, or self-will) that compete for your primary obedience.
Reflect on your own 'memorial stones' by journaling specific instances where God has been faithful to you in the past.
Make a definitive public stand for Christ in your household, regardless of the cultural trends around you.
Approach prayer with the confidence that because God gave His Son (the greater gift), He is faithful to provide for your lesser needs.

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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