Joshua: Formation Under Leadership
An exploration of how Joshua's time under Moses shaped him into a leader.
1. Developing Character Through Obedience
1.1 Servant Heart
Verses: Exodus 24:13; Exodus 33:11
- Joshua consistently served Moses, demonstrating humility and a willingness to learn.
- This service wasn't just a job; it was a posture of the heart, preparing him for greater responsibility.
1.2 Loyalty and Dedication
Verses: Numbers 11:28; Numbers 14:6-9
- Joshua defended Moses's leadership, even when others questioned it.
- He remained faithful to the mission God gave Moses, even when facing opposition.
2. Learning Through Observation
2.1 Witnessing God's Power
Verses: Exodus 17:8-14; Exodus 32:17-18
- Joshua saw God's power displayed through Moses in miraculous ways.
- These experiences built his faith and confidence in God's ability to lead His people.
2.2 Learning from Moses's Mistakes
Verses: Numbers 20:10-12; Deuteronomy 3:23-26
- Joshua likely observed Moses's imperfections and learned from them.
- This understanding of human fallibility helped him to rely more on God's guidance.
3. Stepping into Leadership
3.1 Receiving the Mantle
Verses: Numbers 27:18-23; Deuteronomy 31:7-8
- Moses publicly commissioned Joshua as his successor, transferring leadership authority.
- This transfer was accompanied by prayer and the laying on of hands, signifying divine empowerment.
3.2 Embracing the Challenge
Verses: Joshua 1:1-9; Joshua 3:7
- Joshua faced the daunting task of leading the Israelites into the Promised Land after Moses's death.
- He found strength and courage in God's promise to be with him, just as He had been with Moses.
4. Joshua's Leadership in Action
4.1 Seeking Divine Guidance
Verses: Joshua 5:13-15; Joshua 7:10-15
- Joshua consistently sought God's direction through prayer and obedience.
- He understood that true leadership came from following God's will, not his own understanding.
4.2 Leading with Courage and Faith
Verses: Joshua 6:1-5; Joshua 10:12-14
- Joshua led the Israelites in bold acts of faith, trusting in God's power to overcome obstacles.
- He demonstrated unwavering courage in the face of adversity, inspiring the people to follow him.