Dig Deeper - Sunday 11th January
Sermon Reflection Questions - Strong and Courageous - a Journey through the book of Joshua: The Power of Testimony
Joshua 4
Dig Deeper notes from Sunday 11th January service:
Summary
After 40 years of wandering in the wilderness, the people of Isreal finally reach the promised land. In Chapter 3, Joshua and Israelites have set off on a journey toward Jordan, following the ark of the covenant carried by the Levitical priests. They get to the river and find that there is one big problem. The river is flowing strongly, and they cannot get across.
God then does something miraculous. He instructs Joshua to tell the Levitical priests to cross ahead of them into the river with ark of the covenant. As their feet hit the water, the river that was in a flood state is parted and the Israelites are able to cross the river on completely dry ground.
In Chapter 4, Joshua instructs 12 men (representing the 12 tribes) to go and gather 12 stones from the place where the priests were standing. On the 10th day of the month, they get to Gilgal and place the stones there, to serve as a reminder of what God had done for them.
These stones were placed there so that they Israelites in future generations would remember. God had shown His faithfulness by parting the Red Sea for Moses and the previous generation and now He was performing a miracle in their generation.
Future generations would ask about the significance of these stones and the Israelites would remember what God had done and tell their story.
1. Remember
Psalm 77:11 says,
I will remember the deeds of the Lord, yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago.
The 12 stones served as a reminder to the Israelites of what God had done. We have Jesus, who was described as the cornerstone in 1 Peter 2:4-6. His death and resurrection serve as a sign and reminder of what God has done for us all.
In your own testimony is there anything that serves a remind of what God has done?
2. Share
Our testimonies demonstrate the power of God to firstly save us and secondly how He works through ordinary everyday experiences. The show that God’s power is displayed in all circumstances. Our testimonies also lead us to revere Him.
Sharing our testimonies is a powerful tool for evangelism and or encouraging the body of Christ. Our stories are all a part of God’s big story, as well as sharing the gospel, sharing your testimony can help people understand that God is a relational God, who knows and loves us and wants us to be in relationship with Him.
It takes vulnerability and boldness to share a part of your story so pray for boldness and courage to share.
Questions for discussion:
1. The Israelites had the 12 stones to remind them of what God had done. Read 1st Peter 2:4-6. Who is being described as the cornerstone?
2. When you think of your own testimony, what is that one thing in it that serves as a reminder of what God has done?
3. Spend time sharing your testimonies with each other or spend time writing down your testimony.
Helpful tips when thinking about your testimony:
- Tell us what happened.
- What is one highlight of this testimony? What did God highlight for you?
- How did it encourage you in your faith?
Prayer
Dear God, we all have a story to tell about Your goodness and mercy. Help us see opportunities and the boldness to share Your precious gift of salvation. In Jesus' Name. Amen
