Preacher: Brian Bone

Summary: In this sermon, Pastor Brian Bone explores a pivotal moment in the book of Joshua where the Israelites pause their conquest to hold a massive worship service at Shechem.

Standing between the lush Mount Gerizim and the barren Mount Ebal, Pastor Brian shows how the people are presented with a clear choice: the path of blessing through obedience or the path of curse through rebellion. We learn that worship is our natural response to God's past faithfulness and that His Word is the only foundation for a successful life. Most importantly,

Pastor Brian reveals why God placed the altar on the mountain of the curse, pointing us to the heart of grace for those who have failed and need a way back home.

Key Points:

• When God has been good to us, we should respond with devoted worship!
• When God speaks, we should build our lives around His Word!
• When God warns, we should turn back and follow His voice!
• When we utterly fail, God has made a way to return to Him!
• The significance of Shechem and the altars of Abraham and Jacob.
• Choosing between Mount Gerizim (Blessing) and Mount Ebal (Curse).

Reflect & Discuss:

1. Looking back at your life, where would you be right now if God had not intervened with His grace?
2. Are you currently approaching God's Word with an "embrace" (Yes, Lord) or with a "stiff neck" (Resistance)?
3. If you feel like you are currently living on "Mount Ebal," how does the finished work of Jesus provide you a way back to the Father?

Main Passage: Joshua 8:30-35

Supporting Passages:

• Psalm 127:1
• Ephesians 1:3-6
• Genesis 12:6-7, 33:18-20
• Joshua 1:8
• Deuteronomy 27-28
• John 4 (The Woman at the Well)