The Centrality of Worship

The Israelites are receiving promises. The land was promised and is now taken. In Genesis 12 up through Joshua, the physical promises are to be seen in light of spiritual truths and realities. The land was to be set apart for the worship of the Lord. It was a physical possession but it was a possession with a purpose. We see Joshua building an altar. This is a foreshadowing of the eternal state. The land given to Abraham finds its ultimate fulfillment in the new heaven and new earth. That promised possession is to be a place where the Lord is worshiped. Don't go so far that you forget your purpose: worship and obedience.

1. the event
   1a. precept governing the event
   As it is written in the book of the law of Moses... (8:31). All these things were done because of the commands given by Moses.
   1b. place of event
   This was between Mount Gerizim and Mount Ebal. These places most likely were near Shechem which is the place where Abraham received the promises (Gen 12:6). Jacob's visit to Shechem illustrates the theme of land, possession and worship (Gen 33:18-20).
   1c. parts of the event

• altar built
  altar points to Calvary and the gospel
• altar used
  the burnt offerings point to Christ
• people blessed
• Word written
• Word read
  1d. people in the event
  all the word was for all the people, including the little ones
  1e. purpose of event
  rejoice with thankfulness
  renewal of covenant

2. key thought
   we see an example of public worship

3. application

• worship is an act of obedience
• worship demands an attitude of reverence
• worship requires approach by sacrifice
• worship involves relaying the unchanging word
• worship expresses our hearts unto God