Full Service

Joshua 8 calls us to remember a great battle—one where Israel, under the leadership of Joshua, moved from defeat to victory. This story teaches us how, through obedience to God, we can overcome our failures and walk in the victory that Christ offers us. Just as we remember those who fought for our earthly freedom, let us also remember the One who fought for our eternal freedom—Jesus Christ.

Point 1: Learn from Defeat (Joshua 8:1-2)

• In Joshua 8:1-2, we find a profound message of hope and restoration.
• God speaks words of encouragement to Joshua: "Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged."
• What we learn here is that failure is not final when we trust in God.
• God encourages His people to rise up, learn from their mistakes, and move forward in obedience.
• God did not leave them in their brokenness.

After their sin was dealt with, Israel was given a fresh start, a new strategy, and a renewed promise of victory.

Point 2: Obedience Brings Victory (Joshua 8:3-9)

• Victory in our lives comes through obedience to God’s Word.
• “The battle strategy God gave Joshua was unconventional—it involved setting an ambush, pretending to retreat, and then attacking from behind. This wasn’t a plan that would have made sense from a purely human perspective, but Joshua trusted that God’s wisdom was far greater than his own.”
• When we choose to follow God’s commands… we position ourselves to experience His power and victory. God’s instructions may not always make sense to us, but they are always perfect and designed for our ultimate good.

Point 3: God’s Mercy After Failure (Joshua 8:10-17)

• God’s plan often uses our past failures to bring about victory.
• God turned Israel’s past defeat into a future victory.
• In Christ, your past does not define you.

Point 4: Complete Devotion to God (Joshua 8:18-29)

• Joshua holds out his javelin as a sign of God’s power and Israel’s devotion. This act reminds us that God requires complete devotion.
• We are called to live out our faith openly and fully.
• Are you fully devoted to God in every area of your life?

Point 5: Remember and Renew the Covenant (Joshua 8:30-35)

• The victory wasn’t about military success—it was about staying faithful to God and His covenant.
• Do you regularly take time to renew your commitment to Christ?
• “After each success or blessing in life, we must remember to give glory to God and renew our dedication to Him.”

PRINT SERMON HANDOUT/NOTES