LOOK FOR THE OLD PATHS
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Jeremiah 6:16
Supporting Texts: Proverbs 4:18, Psalm 119:105, 2 Timothy 3:16-17, Matthew 7:13-14, Isaiah 30:21
INTRODUCTION
The world is constantly changing, and many people are looking for new ways to live, worship, and serve God. However, not every new path is the right one. God calls us to seek the "old paths"—the time-tested, godly way of righteousness and truth. Jeremiah 6:16 says, "Thus saith the Lord, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls." This scripture reminds us that God’s way does not change, and those who walk in His path will find peace and fulfilment.
The old paths represent God's divine standards, holiness, faith, obedience, and commitment to His Word. Unfortunately, many have abandoned these paths in pursuit of worldly pleasures, modern philosophies, and human traditions that contradict God’s will. The Bible warns us against forsaking the ways of righteousness for the broad road that leads to destruction (Matthew 7:13-14).
In this sermon, we will examine the significance of the old paths, why many have departed from them, and how we can return to walking in the way of the Lord.
1. WHAT ARE THE OLD PATHS?
The old paths refer to God’s eternal principles that lead to righteousness and life.
a) The path of holiness (1 Peter 1:15-16)
God calls His children to live in holiness and avoid the corruption of the world.
b) The path of obedience (Deuteronomy 28:1-2)
Walking in the old paths requires total obedience to God’s commands, which bring blessings.
c) The path of truth (John 17:17)
The Word of God is the foundation of truth, and those who follow it will not be deceived.
d) The path of faith and trust in God (Hebrews 11:6)
The old paths teach us to depend on God, not on human wisdom or worldly systems.
e) Biblical Example: Abraham’s Walk of Faith (Genesis 12:1-4)
Abraham followed the old path of faith, trusting God even when he did not know the future.
2. WHY HAVE MANY DEPARTED FROM THE OLD PATHS?
Many people today have abandoned the old paths for various reasons.
a) The love of the world (1 John 2:15-17)
Many have chosen worldly pleasures over godly living, seeking material gain instead of spiritual growth.
b) The rise of false teachings (2 Timothy 4:3-4)
People have turned to doctrines that please their desires rather than the truth of God’s Word.
c) The desire for convenience (Matthew 7:13-14)
The broad road appears easier, but it leads to destruction. Many avoid the narrow way of righteousness.
d) The loss of reverence for God (Romans 3:18)
A lack of fear for God has caused people to disregard His commands and pursue their own ways.
e) Biblical Example: The Israelites Turning to Idols (Exodus 32:1-6)
Instead of waiting on God, the Israelites turned to idolatry, departing from the old path of obedience.
3. THE BLESSINGS OF WALKING IN THE OLD PATHS
Those who walk in God’s ways experience divine blessings.
a) Rest for the soul (Jeremiah 6:16)
Walking in the old paths brings peace and fulfilment, free from spiritual confusion.
b) Divine protection and guidance (Isaiah 30:21)
God leads and protects those who follow His way, keeping them from danger.
c) Eternal rewards (Matthew 25:21)
The faithful will receive the crown of life and eternal joy in God’s presence.
d) Unshakable faith (Proverbs 4:18)
The path of righteousness leads to spiritual growth and deeper trust in God.
e) Biblical Example: Daniel’s Commitment to the Old Paths (Daniel 1:8, Daniel 6:10)
Daniel refused to compromise his faith, and God honoured him with wisdom and promotion.
4. HOW TO RETURN TO THE OLD PATHS
If we have strayed, we must return to God’s way.
a) Recognise the need for repentance (2 Chronicles 7:14)
God calls His people to humble themselves, pray, and turn from sinful ways.
b) Study and obey God’s Word (Psalm 119:105)
The Bible is our guide; we must follow it diligently to remain on the right path.
c) Seek the Holy Spirit’s help (John 16:13)
The Holy Spirit guides us in truth and strengthens us to walk in obedience.
d) Surround yourself with godly influences (Hebrews 10:24-25)
Fellowship with believers who uphold righteousness encourages us to stay on course.
e) Biblical Example: The Prodigal Son Returning to His Father (Luke 15:17-20)
When the prodigal son realised his mistake, he returned to his father and was restored.
5. STAYING COMMITTED TO THE OLD PATHS
Remaining steadfast in God’s ways requires discipline and commitment.
a) Maintain a life of prayer (1 Thessalonians 5:17)
Prayer strengthens us and keeps us in close fellowship with God.
b) Walk in daily obedience (Deuteronomy 10:12-13)
True commitment is shown in everyday decisions to honour God.
c) Be mindful of worldly influences (Romans 12:2)
Avoiding compromise helps us remain faithful to God’s standards.
d) Continually grow in faith (2 Peter 3:18)
Spiritual growth keeps us strong and unshaken in our convictions.
e) Biblical Example: Paul’s Lifelong Dedication to the Old Paths (2 Timothy 4:7-8)
Paul remained faithful to the end, receiving the crown of righteousness.
CONCLUSION
God’s ways are unchanging, and He calls us to return to the old paths of righteousness, holiness, and obedience. The modern world may offer many alternatives, but only God’s path leads to eternal life. When we choose to follow Him, we find peace, purpose, and divine blessings.
It is time to examine our lives and ask, "Are we walking in the old paths, or have we strayed?" If we have gone astray, let us repent and return to the good way so that we may find rest for our souls. May the Lord help us to remain steadfast in His truth.
PRAYER POINTS
1. Lord, help me to walk in the old paths of righteousness and truth.
2. Father, deliver me from every distraction that leads away from Your ways.
3. Holy Spirit, guide me daily in the right path and keep me from deception.
4. Lord, restore my passion for Your Word and holiness.
5. Father, give me the grace to remain steadfast in faith till the end.
