1. Study the whole story
Deacon Childs explains why Old Testament study matters for understanding the Bible as a whole. He compares beginning in the middle of a book with trying to understand the present without its background. Sunday School, careful reading, and help from others can deepen understanding, especially for someone beginning a walk with Christ.
Recording: 2:25-5:46
2. Recognize the size of the challenge
Joshua 11:1-5 describes Jabin of Hazor gathering other kings, soldiers, horses, and chariots at the waters of Merom. Deacon Childs uses this background to explain the challenge facing Joshua. As responsibilities grow, opposition may also become more demanding. The lesson directs attention to God rather than appearances alone.
Recording: 9:23-13:23
3. Receive God's assurance and respond
In Joshua 11:6, God tells Joshua not to fear and promises to deliver the opposing army. Joshua and his forces then approach suddenly at Merom. Deacon Childs emphasizes taking God at His word and acting on His direction. Faith involves a response, even when the assignment appears overwhelming.
Recording: 13:25-17:03
4. Depend on God rather than the equipment
Joshua 11:8-9 records victory and obedience to the command about the horses and chariots. Deacon Childs explains this as a lesson in dependence: the people should not transfer their confidence to the equipment they could acquire. The class stresses acknowledging God's power rather than treating success as a chance to collect wealth or take personal credit.
Recording: 20:07-25:09
5. Persevere without taking all the credit
The discussion repeatedly returns to putting God first and remaining submissive to Him. Joshua 11:18 says the campaign lasted a long time. The lesson connects perseverance with obedience and faith. Continued progress is a reason for gratitude and continued dependence, rather than an excuse to become self-sufficient.
Recording: 25:23-30:18
6. Read difficult passages with care
Deacon Childs acknowledges that the chapter's destruction can trouble readers. Joshua 11:16-21 presents the campaign within its account of judgment and God's commands to Moses. Study the historical setting and the surrounding Scripture carefully. The teacher urges deeper study instead of taking isolated verses as the whole message of the Bible.
Recording: 28:42-33:26
7. Practice the way of Christ
Deacon Childs moves from the conquest account to the Christian call to love enemies, pray for persecutors, and bear witness. He emphasizes Christ's sacrifice, grace, and mercy while maintaining the importance of obedience. The present-day application is faithful witness and compassionate conduct; the ancient battle account is not a command to attack people today.
Recording: 35:20-38:14
8. Tell the journey, not just the result
The class warns that confidence can turn into arrogance. A person who is struggling may find it hard to relate to a testimony that begins only with the speaker's present success. Share how you needed help, prayed, learned, and grew. Honest testimony helps others see a path forward instead of feeling that faith is beyond their reach.
Recording: 38:22-45:19
9. Recognize fulfillment and receive rest
Joshua 11:22-23 describes the remaining Anakim locations, the distribution of the land, and rest from war. Deacon Childs highlights God's role in bringing rest after the campaign. His closing encouragement is to remember God's care when the world feels unsettled. Trust His faithfulness while continuing to live in obedience.
Recording: 47:36-50:16
10. Bring humility and grace into conflict
The closing discussion cautions against calling every person who disagrees with us an enemy. It explores the difficulty of showing grace while also addressing harmful behavior. Pause when anger rises, seek God's help, and respond with self-control. A firm correction and a compassionate heart can belong together.
Recording: 50:22-57:54
