The Faith of Caleb
Introduction:
Caleb had been impressed with what he saw as a spy. (Numbers 13:27-30; 14:6-8) After not taking the land, God banishes them to 40 yrs in the wilderness so the older generation could die off without inheriting the land. Numbers 14:24: God promises Caleb that he and his descendants would take possession of the land. Joshua 14 – 45 years later, Caleb steps forward to take his inheritance. Caleb moved with tremendous faith – His faith propelled his service and he is noted in scripture for that. God gave him victory!
I. This story needs telling to young
adults today.
A. 1 Tim. 4:12
B. See giants and walled cities: immorality; alcohol; drugs; apathy
1. Stand up. Gal. 1:10
1. Need the attitude: we are able to overcome – Num 13:30
2. Phil. 4:13 – I can do all things through Jesus who strengthens me.
C. Set goals – then work hard to attain them.
II. This story needs
to be told to older Christians.
A. Mt. 20:6-7 – parable of the laborers.
B. Caleb did not conquer his mountain in his youth.
1. Be faithful to assemblies and active in your service!
2. You have the potential to make a tremendous difference!
C. what was your mountain?
1. After retirement – is a great time to excel in God’s work.
III. Today’s
Congregations Needs to Hear This Story.
A. How many times are congregations like the other spies?
1. Rom. 8:31 – if God is for us – who can be against us?
B. Where are we going as a congregation?
1. Are we settling for less than we should?
C. We pray for growth – do we work for it?
IV. Those outside of Christ need to hear this story.
A. So many do not obey for fear of giants, etc.
B. Don’t hold back because you think that you can’t.
1. Remember Phil. 4:13; Rom. 8:31
2. God wants you in heaven – not hell.
Conclusion:
A. Let us rediscover our mountain and conquer it.
B. Let’s have the attitude of Caleb.
C. God will give us that mountain if we follow Him.