PM Scripture Reading: Joshua 7:3-5

David M. Fiddament

THE GREATER DEFEAT

Introduction:

1. After the mighty victory at Jericho, I can only imagine Joshua’s confusion from the defeat at the battle of Ai.
2. Israel was defeated by more than the people of Ai; they were defeated by sin.

I. SIN CAUSES PROBLEMS

1. Sin gets people killed. (v. 4-5; Rom. 6:23)
2. Sin keeps people from their home. (Rom. 3:23)
3. Sin is not worth it. (v. 21; Gal. 6:7-8)
4. Sin makes God turn His back. (v. 12; Rom. 1:32)

II. GOD SEES EVERYTHING

1. Achan hid his sin. (v. 21)
   1. He thought no one had seen him.
   2. The Israelites certainly didn’t see him.
2. God saw him. (Heb. 4:13; Jer. 17:10)
3. Sin will be revealed. (Num. 32:23)

III. VICTORY IN RIGHTEOUSNESS

1. When sin was removed, victories were added. (v. 25-26; Eph. 5:8-11)
2. It was true then. (Josh. 1:6-8)
   1. If people will do what is right, God will be with them.
   2. It is true now. (1 Tim. 4:13-16)
3. Jesus washes our sin away. (Rev. 1:5)
   1. We have victory in Jesus! (Rom. 8:31-39)
   2. We overcome through obedient faith (1 John 5:1-5)

Conclusion: Do what is right and you will have victory! Guaranteed!