Reflection Sin is really not that enjoyable. Achan found that out the hard way. He thought of all the pleasure that the robe, gold wedge, and coins could bring, but in the end, he couldn’t even enjoy them. He hid them under his tent. It’s not like he could show them off to his family… Read more
Monthly Archives: September 2010
The Consequences of Sin
Reflection In Joshua 7, we read of Achan’s sin and the consequences that Israel faced because of it. Because Achan chose to take some spoils from Jericho – something strictly forbidden, Israel was defeated and embarrassed by Ai. 36 men were killed in the battle, and it left Joshua asking “what have you done God?” … Read more
Church Vision Update from Justin Hibbard
Dear New Hope Chapel family and friends, My role in the congregation I wanted to take a moment and tell you about the vision and plans of the Elders in moving ahead, so you can get a sense of where we are going. When we learned of Gary’s leaving, the Elders decided not to pursue… Read more
Sin, Accountability & Community
How Do You Picture Jesus?
Reflection In Joshua 5-6, Joshua gets to witness a Christophany – a preincarnate appearance of Christ. What was the purpose of this meeting with the Commander of the Lord’s Army? One of the reasons was so Joshua could get war plans – blueprints on what he needed to do in order to defeat Jericho. We… Read more
He is There and He is not Silent
Reflection In Joshua 5, we find that the Lord meets with Joshua, appearing as a Commander with a drawn sword. He does this to fulfill His promise to Joshua that we find in chapter 1 – “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” I’m sure Joshua wanted to know if God would meet with… Read more
An Encounter with the Captain
The Cup of Redemption
Reflection: In Joshua 5, the Israelites celebrate the Passover, as it was the 15th of Nisan. God certainly has a way with timing. Remember, it was the Passover that marked the beginning of their freedom from Egypt and slavery. And now that they have crossed the Jordan and are in the new land, they are… Read more
Circumcision of the Heart
Reflection: One of the first things the Israelites did in the new land was that the men were circumcised. This was a requirement in the Abrahamic Covenant. However, it was one of those Laws that got forgotten or put aside. What is remarkable about this action is that the Jewish people are so dedicated to… Read more
