Series: Learning Victory From Joshua Dr. Elmer Towns
Lesson 5: The Day After A Miracle August 12, 2012
A. A COMMAND OF SEPARATION
“God told Joshua to make knives and circumcise the sons of those who had been slaves in Egypt (40 years ago). Their fathers died in the wilderness because of their unbelief and rebellion. Their sons had never been circumcised” (Josh. 5:2-9, Amplified).
1. It happened at Gilgal which means rolled away.
a. The river barrier was rolled away.
b. Their commitment to the flesh was rolled away, i.e., an outward sign of repentance.
2. Circumcision was a symbol of the Abrahamic Covenant (Gen. 17).
3. A great statement of faith, i.e., the men were incapacitated for three days.
4. They were within sight of the Jericho fortification, and could not fight.
5. A view of the enemy will challenge you to greater faith.
6. They crossed the river to fight, but God marched them past the place of future battles, i.e., wait patiently.
7. Perhaps God was further “scaring” the enemy.
8. Perhaps your obedience will overcome the disobedience of previous generations.
B. RENEW RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD
“While camping on the plains of Jericho, they celebrated the Passover. The next day they began eating unleavened bread and roasted grain harvested from the land. The next day the manna stopped and they ate from the crops of the land” (Josh. 5:10-12, ELT).
9. It was 40 years to the day when they ate the last Passover in Egypt, i.e., the night before they left. Remember God’s past victory.
10. Passover dealt with inner sins, circumcision with outer sins.
11. Down payment on God’s promise the next day. “They ate from the crops.”
12. Worship. Israel ate in view of Jericho. “Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies” (Ps. 23:5).
13. Sometimes we must forget God’s past work and move on. “The manna ceased.”
14. Someone else planted the food they ate. “The old corn of the land” 95:1).
15. We will never see some works of God again. “The manna . . . was never seen again” (5:12).
C. MEETING GOD
“Joshua was on reconnaissance to plan his battle strategy against Jericho, when he saw a soldier with a drawn sword. Joshua asked, ‘friend or foe?’ ‘Neither’ he answered. ‘I am the Commander of the LORD’s army.’ Joshua fell on his face to the ground. ‘I am at your command. What do you want me to do?’ The LORD said, ‘Take off your sandals, you are standing on holy ground’” (Josh. 5:13-15).
16. When you think you are in danger, actually you may be in the presence of God. “What time I am afraid, I will trust in Thee” (Ps. 56:3).
17. The Lord’s sword was drawn, ready for battle.
18. The secret to victory is not getting on God’s side, but getting Him on your side.
19. Worship is giving the worthship to God that belongs to Him.
20. Today we can enjoy the atmospheric presence of God. In the movie, Field of Dreams, 1989, Kevin Costner said, “If you build it they will come!” But the believer says, “If you worship the Father He will come.”
D. GETTING GOD’S BATTLE STRATEGY
“The city of Jericho was ready for battle, but the Lord told Joshua, ‘I have given the city to you, its king, and soldiers. March around the city once a day for 6 days. The men of war shall march before the 7 priests blowing 7 rams’ horns, marching before the Ark. Some men of war shall march behind them. On the 7th day march around the city 7 times. Make a long blast with the ram’s horn and have all the people shout with a loud yell. The wall will fall flat and each soldier will charge straight ahead’” (Josh. 6:1-5).
21. Never trust your enemy, be ready at all times.
22. Always guard your rear.
23. Seven is the number of completeness; God’s favorite number.
24. We get victory when we put God at the center of our struggle.
25. Israel worshipped God, rather than taunt and challenge the enemy.
26. Theories of what destroyed the walls:
a. Bible omits battering rams.
b. Asian tradition of sapping the walls.
c. Sonic boom will destroy man-made things.
d. Marching in step will loosen clay mortar.
e. The miraculous power of God.
27. God blesses corporate obedience when all His followers act in unison.
28. Don’t quit too soon, fulfill God’s commandment to the end.
29. Keep your promises. “Joshua saved Rahab” (5:25).
30. The most important ingredient in victory. “The Lord was with Joshua” (6:27).
If you have never really accepted Jesus as your personal Savior, would you do it right now? Do not delay or put it off. If you would like to receive Christ by faith, pray this simple prayer in your heart:
Dear Lord,
I acknowledge that I am a sinner. I believe Jesus died for my sins on the cross, and rose again the third day. I repent of my sins. By faith I receive the Lord Jesus as my Savior. You promised to save me, and I believe You, because You are God and cannot lie. I believe right now that the Lord Jesus is my personal Savior, and that all my sins are forgiven through His precious blood. I thank You, dear Lord, for saving me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
If you prayed that prayer, God heard you and saved you. I personally want to welcome you to the family of God and rejoice with you.
For more information on the TRBC Pastor’s Bible Class, log on to the Internet www.itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/dr-elmer-towns .
