RPG Adults
THE WARNING AGAINST THE REMAINING CANAANITES
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 28
Joshua 23
Deuteronomy 6:4-14
“Thou shalt fear the LORD thy God,
and serve him…”
THE WARNING AGAINST THE REMAINING CANAANITES
God would fight for Israel. One of them would chase a thousand. In this regard, their love for God was foremost. What has come to be called the greatest commandment is thus recorded in Deuteronomy 6:4-14. This, according to Jesus, is the sum of all the commandments. Israel was thus forbidden to make marriages with the Canaanites. This prohibition was also repeated in the Law. Such an affinity with the Canaanites would lead them to compromise the sanctity of their standing before God. Joshua warned them of the consequence if they disobeyed: “Know for a certainty that the LORD your God will no more drive out any of these nations from before you…” (Josh 23:13). It pays to heed God’s warning at all times and live.
Israel had assurance of God’s faithfulness. Joshua was about to depart and his final words were important to Israel. He reminded the nation again of God’s faithfulness and that God would always remain their hope. He told them that God would fulfil His promises for or against Israel depending on how they stood before Him. They were strictly forbidden to worship other gods, and if they did, God’s anger would be against them. The difference between Israel and the Canaanites was their belief and worship. The Canaanites held to idols and worshipped them. Israel knew the true God and Creator. He alone is to be worshipped.
Joshua repeated what Israel knew of God, and he stressed this lest they forget. Holiness is foremost for all God’s children. Let us be holy for our God is holy.
In equal measure, the church today must take a stand never to compromise the Word of God. The need for the church to be separate from the world is ever urgent. Any compromise with false religions is forbidden and believers are to be cautious in these days of ecumenical approach that leads to syncretism. Never water down the exclusive nature of the Gospel for unity at the expense of the truth.
THOUGHT: Biblical principles are the mainstays of faith.
PRAYER: Father, may I remain faithful to Thy doctrinal truths.