Preacher: Anson McMahon

Summary

In this sobering sermon from Joshua 7, Pastor Anson explores the story of Achan to reveal how small, private compromises can lead to public and painful consequences.

While the first six chapters of Joshua serve as a masterclass in obedience, chapter seven provides a stark warning: our feelings about sin do not change God’s reality of it. We are reminded that everything we have is a gift from the Father, and while we are free to choose our path, we are not free to choose the consequences that follow.

Ultimately, this sermon points us away from the "trouble" of our own making and toward the radical generosity of the Gospel, where Jesus takes on our trouble so we can live in His light.

Key Points:

• It is always better to obey God than not obey God.
• Beware of becoming desensitized to sin.
• It is right for me to be generous to God because God has been so generous to me.
• Sin is a big deal to God even if it's not a big deal to me.
• l can choose my sin, but l can't choose the consequences.
• It is possible for me to steal from God.
• The transition from the victory at Jericho to the defeat at Ai.
• The concept of "First Fruits" and living as a steward rather than an owner.

Reflect & Discuss:

1. Are there areas in your life where you have become "desensitized" to sin because of the culture around you?
2. How would your daily perspective change if you viewed your finances and time as a "steward" rather than an "owner"?
3. What "bait" is the enemy currently using to hide a "hook" in your life?

Main Passage: Joshua 7:1-15

Supporting Passages:

• Proverbs 14:12
• Joshua 6:18-19
• James 1:17
• 1 Corinthians 4:7
• Proverbs 3:9-10