We have promises from God (likeness to Christ and building of the church). Sometimes when we get promises, we do nothing. We know we are going to get something so there is nothing for us to do or so we think. When it comes to the promises of God, we are to do. In this message, we look at our personal responsibility
1. There are instructions to the Lord's people
1a. Follow Christ (3:3) Joshua gives the instruction to follow the ark of the covenant. The ark was a symbol of the presence of God. It was provided to show how God would save people from their sins. The picture of the ark is a picture of Christ. The gold points toward deity. The shittim wood is a sturdy, incorruptible wood and symbolizes the humanity of Christ. The gold and wood are brought together but not mixed just like the deity and humanity of Christ. Those who go on with God follow Christ. They remove from their place and go after the ark. They are converted, contrite (there shall be a space) and consecrated.
1b. Sanctify yourselves (3:5) God can set people apart but they also are to set themselves apart. We believe the Spirit moves where he wants but we also believe we are to forsake sin and obey God. God works in the context of holy living. We are to purify ourselves (2 Tim 2:21). Churches are concerned with liberty rather than purity. We should be concerned that our dress and the devices we use promote purity.
2. There is a response required of the Lord's people Joshua told the people to follow a box into a river and all would be well. Would we have done that? We look back and say of course we would. But what if we were there? It might be a different story.
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