A disciple who starts anew
Joshua 1:1~9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. (9)
Hymn for scheduled worship: Korean/English Hymnal #546 Standing on the Promises (#399 in previous version)
Today’s Scripture reading is the Word that God gives to Joshua, Moses’ aide. What is so different about a representative person like Joshua who was called by God? He first grasped the Word that would be fulfilled in the future, in other words, the conclusion. He altered the incorrect paradigm he had established and connected it with the life of the evangelist. Discover the conclusion you must hold on to and the paradigm you must change within the Word.
1. One who has seen
Joshua is a person who saw the works of Israel and the truth, alongside Moses. He heard, saw and experienced God’s miracles of the sacrificial offering and the Pentecost, the tabernacle and the three feasts, the water springing from the rock, the protection of the pillars of clouds and fire, the manna and quail, and the entrance into the land of Canaan by crossing the Jordan River. It is crucial for the people of God to learn of God’s works through the Bible and to experience how the Word is fulfilled in the field every day. He consistently seeks spiritual leaders of the age just like Moses and Joshua.
2. One who possesses
This means there is still much to do. Joshua was an individual who possessed the promise of God saying that He will be with Moses and the Israelites. Moreover, he knew there was a battle against the enemy in the land of Canaan, the internal foes, and against himself. God tells His people to stand firm and never be fearful or afraid. He promises to be with us by the power of the Creator and Redeemer.
3. Life of the evangelist
Knowing the works of the power of God, Joshua also knew what he had to do. The Israelites had to leave Egypt through the Exodus, enter the land where the Messiah was promised and conquer that land for it was God’s plan. Those who know the conclusion of God must change their today into the life of the evangelist. When you know and hold on to the Gospel properly, the life of the evangelist will split the Jordan River, break down the walls of Jericho, and lead to the blessing that no one within your lifetime will be able to take away.
- Apply the life of the evangelist in your field today and discover God who is with you, as one who has seen and one who possesses the Gospel.
Immanuel Church Sunday Worship 1st Service / 2011.1.9