Sin in the Community - Wednesday March 5th

If you missed last Wednesday night here is a recap of how Achan brought sin into the community and how we should handle the situation when it arises in our community. I want to thank Mark for leading the class for me this Wednesday and I will  return next Wednesday with a look at a time when Daniel was tempted to compromise.

The effect of sin unleashed in the body of Christ can have devastating consequences, quenching the work of the Holy Spirit and hindering the advance of God’s kingdom.

Have you ever seen the negative effects of one individual’s action in an organization, family, workplace, or neighborhood?

Israel discovered the deadly, far-reaching effect of individual sin during its conquest of Canaan around 1300 B.C. In the midst of a miraculous victory at Jericho (Joshua 6), Achan took several items that were devoted to the Lord.

Read Joshua 7

What happens to Joshua and the Israelites when they attempt to conquer the city of Ai, and why?  (vv. 1-5)

Imagine you are a reporter observing the scene.  Describe the different types of reactions you might hear. (Remember, they do not know yet the reason for their defeat)

When you or an individual in your fellowship or church experience a setback, how do you respond?

How does God respond to Joshua’s pleas? (vv.10-15)

***Why do you think God held all of Israel responsible for the sin of one person? Spend time on this question

What was the root cause of Achan’s sin against God?

What sins or obstacles might be preventing your church or fellowship from progressing according to God’s plan?

 “If your brother or sister sins, go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over.  But if they will not listen, take one or two others along, so that every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses. If they still refuse to listen, tell it to the church; and if they refuse to listen even to the church, treat them as you would a pagan or a tax collector  (Matthew 18:15-17)

What guidelines did Jesus give us to maintain holiness in the church?

What PRACTICAL steps can you take to build up your fellowship or church this week?

Joshua 8:1-29 recounts how God granted the Israelites victory over Ai in their second attempt to conquer the city.

Read Ephesians 4:17-5:7

What type of behavior do you most need to put off and put on?

What work does God need to do in your heart?