Learning on the Way
Sermon Summary
This sermon from Joshua 14:6-15 examines the remarkable faith of Caleb, who at 85 years old boldly requested the most challenging territory in the Promised Land – a mountain inhabited by giants. The message emphasizes that spiritual maturity doesn’t mean retiring from God’s service, but rather stepping into greater faith and courage. Through Caleb’s example, we learn that giants don’t disappear easily, but God’s past faithfulness prepares us for present battles. The sermon challenges both older believers to finish strong and younger believers to rise up with truth and courage in our current cultural moment.
Key Points
- Giants don’t go away easily – spiritual battles persist throughout our Christian journey
- God’s faithfulness in the past gives us boldness for present challenges
- Senior believers are called to finish strong, not retire from spiritual battle
- Faith asks for the mountain, not the valley – trusting God for impossible things
- True spiritual warfare is fought with truth, courage, and gospel proclamation
- God’s strength is made perfect in our weakness, even in old age
Small Group Questions
Caleb waited 45 years for his promise while watching his generation die in the wilderness due to their lack of faith. Share about a time when you had to wait on God’s timing while others around you seemed to be experiencing breakthroughs. How did that season shape your faith?
At 85, Caleb asked for the hardest assignment – a mountain full of giants. What “giants” in your life have you been asking God to remove rather than asking Him for strength to face them? How might your perspective change if you viewed these challenges as opportunities for God’s glory?
The sermon mentions that Caleb measured the giants against God, not against himself. When facing difficult circumstances, how can we practically shift from measuring our problems against our abilities to measuring them against God’s power?
Caleb demonstrated that spiritual maturity means continuing to take risks for God’s kingdom rather than playing it safe. What is one area where you feel God might be calling you to step out in faith, even though it feels risky or uncomfortable?
The message challenges younger believers to respond to current cultural opposition with truth and courage rather than anger or violence. How can we practically “escalate courage” and gospel proclamation in our daily lives and communities?
Caleb’s readiness came from 45 years of God’s preparation and faithfulness. If you’re currently in a “waiting season,” how might God be preparing you for future ministry or challenges? What spiritual disciplines can help you stay ready?
The sermon emphasizes that “faith asks for the mountain, not the valley.” What would it look like for you to stop praying safe prayers and start trusting God for something that seems impossible?
Key Verses
Joshua 14:12, Joshua 14:10-11, 2 Corinthians 12:9-10
Application On The Way
This week, identify one “giant” you’ve been avoiding or asking God to remove. Instead of praying for the giant to go away, pray for courage and faith to face it head-on. Take one concrete step toward that challenge, trusting that God’s strength will be sufficient for your weakness.
Want to Go Deeper?
Additional Scripture References:
Numbers 13:30, Numbers 14:6-9, Deuteronomy 1:36, 1 Samuel 17:45-47, Ephesians 6:10-18, 2 Timothy 4:7-8, Hebrews 11:32-34, 1 Corinthians 16:13, Philippians 4:13
Personal Reflection Questions:
Read Numbers 13-14 to understand Caleb’s original faith when the other spies brought back a bad report. How does understanding this background change your perspective on his request in Joshua 14?
Paul writes in 2 Timothy 4:7, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” What would it look like for you to “finish strong” in your current season of life, regardless of your age?