Series LESSONS OF FAITH FROM JOSHUA with Pastor Mark Finley

Lesson 11.Living in the Land
Separated yet united – Faith overcomes boundaries

Introduction

Lesson 11 deals with the return of the eastern tribes after fulfilling their military duty and the resulting tension between the tribes of Israel. Although they were geographically separated, spiritual unity remained essential. A misunderstanding about an altar threatened to tear the community apart, but the calm and wise actions of both sides preserved peace. This story emphasizes how important communication, trust, and mutual understanding are for living together as God’s people. It also shows that true unity is not based on physical closeness but on shared faithfulness to God. The lesson challenges us to resolve conflicts in the light of faith and to actively protect the unity of the church.

Content:

11.1 Commitment
Faithfulness in service – Unity through dedication

The Reubenites, Gadites, and half-tribe of Manasseh showed remarkable commitment by faithfully fighting alongside their brothers, even though their families lived far away on the other side of the Jordan. Their service was not superficial, but lasted many years and involved personal sacrifice. This dedication shows that true service comes from faithfulness to God, not just loyalty to people. Joshua praised their behavior and reminded them to continue following the Lord in the future. Their story demonstrates how spiritual unity can overcome geographical boundaries. If we were to stand together and pray with the same attitude today, relationships within the church could grow stronger and deeper.

11.2 Accusations…
Quick judgment – The danger of misunderstanding

The western tribes accused the eastern tribes of turning away from the common faith by building an altar. This accusation was based on an assumption, since the purpose of the altar was unclear and no direct communication had taken place. The conflict shows how quickly a lack of information can lead to mistrust and division. The serious question arises whether the eastern tribes should still be considered part of Israel – a sign of deep tension. Jesus and Paul warn us not to judge others too quickly, because we often do not know their true motives. Even today, misunderstandings in the church are common when we jump to conclusions instead of seeking conversation.

11.3 Haunted by the past
Carrying history – Lessons from earlier failures

The choice of Phinehas as leader of the delegation was no coincidence – he had already acted decisively during the crisis at Baal-Peor and was known for his zeal for God’s honor. His past shaped his understanding of the serious danger of possible idolatry. The fear of falling back into old sins caused the western tribes to sound the alarm immediately. Yet despite serious accusations, they chose the path of clarification before acting. This shows how important it is to distinguish between justified concern and premature judgement. God’s grace helps us learn from the past without treating others unjustly – because healing does not mean forgetting, but acting more maturely in the light of earlier experiences.

  11.4 A gentle answer
Responding with kindness – Unity instead of escalation

The eastern tribes did not react to harsh accusations with anger or defensive emotion, but with a calm, respectful, and deeply faithful explanation. Their response was marked by humility, clarity, and an appeal to God’s truth — a strong example of Proverbs 15:1 in action. Instead of adding fuel to the fire, their thoughtful reaction brought peace into a potentially destructive situation. Especially impressive is that they revealed the motive behind their actions: not rebellion, but a desire for spiritual connection with the rest of Israel. Their answer brought not only clarity, but reconciliation and joy on both sides. This example shows how with gentleness and trust in God we can turn false accusations into an opportunity to strengthen community.

11.5 Conflict resolution
Peace through conversation – Unity through understanding

The incident in Joshua 22 shows clearly how important open and respectful communication is for resolving conflicts. Instead of acting immediately, the Israelites sought dialogue — and thus prevented a tragic civil war. The willingness of both sides to listen, clarify misunderstandings, and be guided by God’s truth led to reconciliation. Particularly exemplary is the humble joy of the western tribes when they realized their mistake — a strong sign of spiritual maturity. The unity of the people was preserved not through structure, but through shared faith and mutual trust. Today, this approach remains a model: talk instead of judge, understand instead of condemn — and give God the glory when peace becomes possible.

11.6 Summary
Preserving unity – Despite boundaries and misunderstandings

Lesson 11 shows how important commitment, trust, and good communication are for unity among God’s people. The eastern tribes faithfully fulfilled their obligation and were praised by Joshua. But when they built an altar, a serious misunderstanding arose that almost led to war. The western tribes reacted with concern, but sought dialogue instead of acting hastily. The kind and honest response of the eastern tribes resolved the situation and led to true reconciliation. This story teaches us how misunderstandings can be overcome through patience, humility, and the pursuit of peace — a principle that still applies to the church today.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/%f0%9f%93%98sabbath-school-with-pastor-mark-finley-lesson-11-living-in-the-land-lessons-of-faith-from-joshua/

Series LESSONS OF FAITH FROM JOSHUA with Pastor Mark Finley

Lesson 10.The True Joshua
From Shadow to Light – Joshua as a Picture of Christ

The Bible is rich in symbols and foreshadowing that point to the true Light – Jesus Christ.
Lesson 10 invites us to see Joshua not only as a historical leader of Israel, but as a biblical type pointing to the coming Redeemer. Through Joshua’s life and mission, God reveals prophetically what He will accomplish perfectly in Christ. We discover that Jesus is not only the new Moses, but the greater Joshua – the Leader who brings us into the eternal inheritance.
These parallels help us understand the unity of Scripture and the plan of salvation more clearly. Typology becomes a window through which we can see God’s purpose in both the Old and New Testaments.

Content:
10.1 Biblical Typology
Foreshadowing Christ – How the Old Testament points to the Redeemer

Biblical typology shows how persons, events, or objects in the Old Testament symbolically point to Christ or New Testament truths. A type is a God-appointed pre-figure – like a mold – whose complete fulfillment (antitype) is revealed in Jesus.
For example, David appears in the Psalms as the suffering righteous one, fulfilled antitypically in Jesus at the cross (John 19:24).
Typology is not a creative New Testament reinterpretation – it is grounded in the Old Testament and guided by the Holy Spirit. It teaches us to read Scripture as one unified testimony of God’s saving plan.
Figures like David, the Passover Lamb, or the sanctuary reveal how Christ is the ultimate hope and fulfillment of all promises.

10.2 Type and Antitype
Unity in Diversity – How Typology unfolds God’s work of salvation

Type and antitype are closely connected biblical building blocks that help us understand salvation history. Scripture itself defines what constitutes a type and how its fulfillment (antitype) appears in Christ, in the church, and in the end of time.
Israel, the Exodus, and the sanctuary are examples of types that are fulfilled in multiple stages – first in Jesus (Christological), then in His church (Ecclesiological), and finally in the final judgment and the new creation (Eschatological).
These structures reveal the deep coherence of the Bible. They teach us to see God’s actions throughout history as unified, purposeful, and full of hope. When one passage is unclear, we may look to the wider context – for Scripture interprets itself.

10.3 Joshua, the Type
Moses, Joshua – and the True Redeemer: Christ as the Fulfillment of God’s Plan

Scripture intentionally presents Joshua as a new Moses – both are divinely commissioned, both lead the people through waters, both renew the covenant, and both give farewell speeches at the end of their ministry.
These parallels are typologically meaningful: they prophetically point to Jesus, the true Leader and Redeemer. Moses foretold in Deuteronomy 18 that God would raise up “a Prophet like me” – fulfilled ultimately in Christ (Acts 3:22).
Joshua reflects this fulfillment in part, but only Jesus reveals God fully, brings true salvation, and speaks with divine authority. Typology connects Israel’s great leaders to the one perfect Savior.
Jesus is therefore the solid foundation of our faith – the One toward whom all history moves, and without whom there is no true spiritual life.

10.4 The True Joshua, the Antitype
Jesus – the true Joshua who secures our eternal inheritance

Joshua led Israel into the promised land – an earthly inheritance meant to bring peace and justice. Yet Scripture makes clear this was not the final goal. The true Joshua, Jesus Christ, leads His people into spiritual rest and eternal inheritance – not won through outward battles but through His victory over sin, death, and Satan.
Just as Joshua distributed the land, Christ gives grace, hope, and the kingdom of God.
Hebrews 4 reveals that those who believe in Christ enter God’s true rest – now by faith, fully in the world to come.
In Jesus we have security, peace, and an inheritance that cannot fade away (1 Peter 1:4).

10.5 Joshua and Us
Called to the battle – led into rest

Joshua led Israel through visible outward battles. Today, the church fights not with swords, but in spiritual warfare against sin, temptation, and the forces of darkness (Ephesians 6:10–12).
As Joshua brought Israel into the rest of the land, Jesus leads His church into the rest of grace – with eyes fixed on the eternal inheritance.
The final victory will be revealed at Christ’s return, when the heavenly Canaan becomes our home (1 Peter 1:4).
Even now, we are called to live in this hope and reflect His character — through devotion and daily fellowship with Him.
Those who follow Jesus are transformed by beholding His glory (2 Corinthians 3:18).

10.6 Summary
Jesus – The Greater Joshua and Our Eternal Leader

Lesson 10 shows that Joshua is a prophetic type of Jesus Christ.
Just as Joshua led Israel into the promised land, so Jesus leads His church into spiritual rest and eternal inheritance. Typology reveals the link between Old Testament events and their complete fulfillment in Christ.
Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection not only fulfill the symbolism of Joshua, but disclose a deeper spiritual victory over sin and death.
The church continues to face spiritual battles today, but through Christ we are brought into the rest of grace.
The final fulfillment of Joshua’s promise awaits us in God’s new world – the heavenly Canaan.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lessons-of-faith-from-joshua-lesson-10-the-true-joshua-%f0%9f%93%98-sabbath-school-with-pastor-mark-finley/

Series LESSONS OF FAITH FROM JOSHUA with Pastor Mark Finley

Lesson 9.Heirs of the Promise, Prisoners of Hope
Between Loss and Promise – God’s Plan with His People

Introduction:

God’s promises to His people were always more than material blessings – they were expressions of His faithfulness, care, and redemptive plan. The Promised Land played a special role in this: it symbolized freedom, identity, and the presence of God. Yet ownership of the land was not an automatic right, but was tied to the covenant with God. Israel had to learn that grace is a gift to be received through trust and obedience. Despite failure and exile, God’s promise remained – with a view toward ultimate restoration. In Christ, we see that our true inheritance goes far beyond earthly borders: it is the new earth where God will dwell with His people forever.

Content:
9.1 Eden and Canaan
Two Gardens of Promise

The Garden of Eden was humanity’s first home – a place of abundance, closeness to God, and perfect harmony. Through the Fall, Adam and Eve lost not only their home but also direct communion with God. Eden became a symbol of what was lost through sin. Later, God gave the patriarchs the promise of the land of Canaan – a new symbol of divine care and hope. Like Eden, Canaan was a gift given solely by God’s grace, not human merit. As Adventists today, we live in faith toward an even greater promise – the heavenly Canaan – and are called, like the patriarchs, to inherit this hope through faith and perseverance.

9.2 The Land as a Gift
Living in Covenant with God

The Promised Land was not Israel’s property in the modern sense, but a gift from God that could only be retained within the framework of covenantal obedience. This special relationship emphasized their complete dependence on God’s faithfulness, provision, and blessing. The land was a visible sign of divine grace and was meant to constantly remind Israel of the Giver – not just the gift. Transitioning from Egypt’s controlled irrigation to Canaan’s rain-dependent agriculture, God taught His people to trust in Him. As the land’s true owner, God remained Lord – Israel were merely guests. Likewise, we today are spiritual strangers and pilgrims, looking forward to a better homeland – a city whose builder and maker is God (Hebrews 11:10).

9.3 The Challenge of the Land
Receiving Grace, Living Responsibly

Although the Promised Land was a gift from God, the Israelites faced real challenges in taking possession of it by trusting in God’s leadership. Their military weakness made it clear: victory would not be by their own strength, but through divine grace. Yet the gift came with responsibility – the land had to be faithfully inhabited, cared for, and defended. The same applies to Christians today: salvation is a gift, but it demands a response of obedience and perseverance in faith. God works in us, but we are called to live in “obedience of faith” (Philippians 2:12). Life in God’s kingdom means actively and responsibly living out the inheritance we have received.

9.4 The Jubilee
Justice, Grace, and New Beginnings in God’s Rhythm

The Year of Jubilee expressed God’s social justice and care for all people – especially the weak. It provided regular opportunities for economic release, social restoration, and a fresh start for the disadvantaged. Unlike Egypt’s unjust systems, God’s laws prevented permanent poverty and land loss. The Sabbath year and the Year of Jubilee reminded Israel that the land belongs to God and they were merely stewards of His gifts. These principles call us today to live lives of solidarity, mercy, and trust rather than exploitation. The Sabbath helps us embody God’s principle of equality – free from greed, performance pressure, and social inequality.

9.5 The Land Restored
The Final Promise Beyond Borders

Israel’s return from Babylonian exile was a sign of divine faithfulness, but only a foretaste of a much deeper restoration. God showed that His relationship with His people was not limited to geographic borders, but depended on their hearts. The Old Testament prophets announced an even greater return – under the rule of a future Davidic king, fulfilled in Jesus Christ. In Him, all promises were realized – not only for Israel, but for all believers. In the New Testament, the Promised Land becomes a symbol of our eternal home with God – the new earth. This hope is secured by Jesus’ death and resurrection and will be fully realized at His return, when God’s people will enter their true, eternal inheritance.

9.6 Summary
Living Between Gift and Hope

Lesson 9 shows that the Promised Land was a central element in God’s plan for His people – not as a reward, but as an expression of divine grace. From Eden to Canaan, it is clear that God not only wanted to give His children a home but also to lead them into a deep relationship with Himself. Possessing the land came with challenges that required faith, obedience, and trust in God’s guidance. Principles such as the Year of Jubilee highlight God’s concern for justice, renewal, and equality. Even though Israel failed, God’s promise remained and was ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ. Our hope as Christians now points toward the true Promised Land – the new earth, where God Himself will dwell with His people forever.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lessons-of-faith-from-joshua-lesson-9-heirs-of-the-promise-prisoners-of-hope-%f0%9f%93%98-sabbath-school-with-pastor-mark-finley/

Series LESSONS OF FAITH FROM JOSHUA with Pastor Mark Finley

Lesson 8.Giants of Faith: Joshua and Caleb
Wholeheartedly Following the Lord

Introduction:
Lesson 8 focuses on two remarkable men: Joshua and Caleb – heroes of faith who remained faithful to God in the midst of doubt and opposition. While the people often wavered, they clung steadfastly to God’s promises and demonstrated courage, obedience, and perseverance. Their lives show that genuine faith is not only expressed in words but becomes visible through consistent action. Caleb’s unwavering attitude and Joshua’s servant leadership are powerful examples for believers today. This lesson invites us to reflect on our own faithfulness. Do we follow God wholeheartedly – even when the path is difficult?

Content:
8.1 Faithfulness
Unshakable in the Truth – Caleb’s Faithfulness

Caleb was a man of extraordinary faith and courage who did not bow to majority opinion, even under great pressure. While ten of the spies lost courage and described the promised land as impossible to conquer, Caleb remained convinced that God would lead His people to victory. He stood boldly against the fear and unbelief of the majority and held firmly to God’s promise. Caleb’s faithfulness was rewarded: he was one of the few from his generation allowed to enter the promised land. His attitude shows that true faith does not require the approval of the majority but rests on the firm conviction that God keeps His word. Caleb remains a shining example of faithfulness amid doubt and resistance.

8.2 Give Me This Hill Country
Wholehearted for the Lord – Caleb’s Uncompromising Faith

Caleb’s and Joshua’s mindset was marked by deep trust in God’s promises and unshakable determination to follow His way – regardless of circumstances or popular opinion. Caleb followed the Lord wholeheartedly, without compromise, and preserved his faith for decades. Even in old age he firmly believed that God would give him the promised inheritance – which is why he boldly declared: “Give me this mountain!” (Joshua 14:12). He was not seeking comfort but seeking to fulfill God’s assignment. To follow the Lord wholeheartedly means to remain faithful in every situation – with a heart that is undivided. Caleb shows us that those who trust God without compromise will experience His promises becoming reality.

8.3 The Power of Example
Faith That Lives On – The Strength of a Good Example

Caleb’s faith and determination extended beyond his own life – they influenced the next generation. Othniel, his nephew and later a judge of Israel, courageously followed his example and took responsibility in faith. Caleb’s daughter Achsah also showed spiritual boldness when she asked confidently for an inheritance – in the same spirit as her father. These accounts show that lived-out faith inspires others and moves them to take God’s promises seriously in their own lives. A credible example is often more powerful than many words: it shapes hearts and guides decisions. Our task is to pass on the baton of faith through our example – so that God’s work continues through future generations.

8.4 Humble Hero
True Greatness Reveals Itself in Humility

Joshua, the great leader of Israel, humbly waited until everyone else had received their inheritance before he took his own – and that from the “remaining” land. Instead of seeking fame or wealth, he chose a simple place near the sanctuary, because God’s presence mattered more to him than outward honor. His behavior shows genuine leadership strength: he put himself last, served faithfully, and kept his focus on God. This attitude is a powerful example for us today – especially in a time when self-promotion is often valued more than character. Joshua’s humility invites us to examine our priorities: Are we seeking recognition, or closeness to God? A life devoted to God often begins with the choice to serve quietly while letting others go first.

8.5 Changed by Contemplation
Transformed by Gazing on Jesus

When we reflect on the life of Jesus and the great heroes of faith, our thinking is renewed and our character is shaped. Continually beholding Jesus – His nature, His love, His devotion – transforms us inwardly and helps us become more like Him (2 Corinthians 3:18). The world wants to shape us from the outside, but the Holy Spirit transforms us from the inside out through God’s power. It is up to us whose influence we allow: the pressure of the world or the work of the Spirit. Daily surrender, intentional meditation, and the decision to remain close to God make true transformation possible. In this way, our lives become a living testimony to Christ.

8.6 Summary
Faithfulness in the Midst of Testing – Joshua and Caleb as Role Models of Faith

Joshua and Caleb were men characterized by unwavering faith and uncompromising loyalty to God – even when they stood alone. While the majority of the spies spread fear, they boldly held to God’s promises. In his old age, Caleb still demanded the promised mountain, and Joshua put his own inheritance last to serve the people first. Both were role models for the next generation and demonstrated that spiritual greatness is revealed through humility, trust, and obedience. Their lives call us to place God’s word above every human opinion. Those who follow the Lord wholeheartedly will experience the fulfillment of His promises.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lessons-of-faith-from-joshua-lesson-8-giants-of-faith-joshua-and-caleb-%f0%9f%93%98-sabbath-school-with-pastor-mark-finley/

Series LESSONS OF FAITH FROM JOSHUA with Pastor Mark Finley

Lesson 7 – Supreme Loyalty: Worship in a War Zone
God first – even in the face of the greatest challenges

Introduction

Lesson 7 places us right in the middle of Israel’s critical moment: the conquest of the Promised Land. But before swords are drawn and cities are taken, worship, covenant renewal, and spiritual alignment come first. Joshua reminds the people—and us—that true victory begins in the heart, not on the battlefield. God’s presence, His Word, and the covenant are not just companions in battle, but the foundation of every spiritual advance. This lesson shows us that loyalty to God is not proven in retreat, but in the midst of conflict. Whoever puts God first will experience His guidance, even in the storm.

Content:
7.1 Covenant First
Spiritual preparation before battle: Loyalty begins with relationship

Before Israel could take Jericho, God insisted on the renewal of the covenant sign—a seemingly illogical step in enemy territory. Yet it was in that very moment that God reminded His people that true victory comes not through military strength, but through covenant faithfulness. Circumcision was not just a physical act, but a spiritual declaration: our first and best belongs to God—even in the midst of war. This event teaches us that loyalty to God must always come before strategic planning. We too are often pressured to act quickly—but the first step is to choose God’s guidance intentionally. Whoever seeks first the Kingdom of God will see how He provides the victory.

7.2 Passover
Remembrance before victory: God’s redemption as the foundation of faith

Before the battle for the Promised Land began, Joshua led the people in celebrating the Passover—an act of deep faith and obedience. The people remembered that the same God who had delivered them from Egypt was now leading them into the land. Amid strategic tension, Joshua ensured that God’s redemption remained the center. Passover was more than a ritual—it was a testimony: the victory belongs to the Lord. Even today, God calls us to pause in the middle of our busyness and remember the cross. Whoever keeps the Lamb’s sacrifice in view can face life’s “battles” with peace and confidence.

7.3 Altars of Renewal
Obedience carved in stone: Worship as a response to victory

Joshua didn’t build the altar by personal initiative, but in obedience to a clear divine command. In the midst of military success, he reminded the people that spiritual faithfulness mattered more than triumph in battle. The altar on Mount Ebal was a public declaration of covenant with God—visible, tangible, and lasting. Next to the altar, Joshua had God’s law written on stones to continually remind the people of divine promises and responsibilities. This act connects victory with responsibility, and grace with obedience. Even today, our spiritual lives need “altars”—moments, places, or rituals that remind us of our dependence on God’s Word and grace.

7.4 Written on Stones
Eternal remembrance: God’s Word as the foundation of life

The engraved stones on Mount Ebal made God’s covenant visible, permanent, and accessible to all. In a world full of forgetfulness and distraction, this monument ensured that God’s words would not be lost—neither spiritually nor literally. Positioned between the two mountains where blessings and curses were read aloud, it reminded Israel of the life-changing power of their decisions. These stones impressed daily upon the people: loyalty to God brings life—turning away brings loss. Even today, we need spiritual “stones”—firm reminders of God’s truth to guide us through the everyday. Scripture, community, and intentional remembrance help us not to lose sight of God in the busyness.

7.5 Longing for His Presence
God’s presence first: The sanctuary as the heart of life

Joshua interrupted the strategically important land distribution to establish the sanctuary at Shiloh—a powerful sign: worship comes before possession. The Tent of Meeting reminded Israel that their strength lay not in warfare but in God’s presence. The center of the people was to be the place where God’s glory dwelled—a visible center for spiritual life. We too live in a “land of opportunity,” but true life flows only from a constant connection with Jesus, our High Priest in the heavenly sanctuary. In a hectic world, God invites us to pause and realign our focus on Him. Only those who are centered on God can live victoriously and fulfilled in the long run.

7.6 Summary
Faithfulness in the tension between battle and worship

Lesson 7 shows that true loyalty to God is especially proven in the tension between challenge and decision. Before Israel took the land, circumcision, Passover, altar building, and the setting up of the sanctuary were all placed at the center—acts of worship and remembrance. These spiritual actions weren’t interruptions to the conquest plan but the decisive key to victory. Joshua’s leadership makes it clear: the covenant with God, His presence, and His Word stand above any strategic or military agenda. We too are called to make space for God first—even in the everyday struggles and battles of life. True victory doesn’t begin with the sword—but with worship.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lessons-of-faith-from-joshua-lesson-7-supreme-loyalty-worship-in-a-war-zone-%f0%9f%93%98-sabbath-school-with-pastor-mark-finley/