Sermon Snippet – One Way
INTRODUCTION – We rightly remember dear ones on Memorial Day. We recall characteristics, stories, and words of wisdom. If our Lord does not return soon – and He may – what will others remember about us?
1. WE LEAVE MARKERS ALONG THE WAY
Joshua 4:15-24 records the miraculous entrance of Israel into the Promised Land. There was just one way to safely enter into this new home. The memorial stones were a tangible reminder of God’s greatness and the Israelites’ faithful response. The markers that we leave behind are not usually physical. Verse 24 explains the reason for the stones: “That all the people of the earth might know the hand of the LORD, that it is mighty: that ye might fear [reverence] the LORD your God for ever.” The grand purpose of the Christian’s life is to serve Jesus and direct others to Him. Our markers are primarily spiritual.
2. WE MUST NOT LEAVE GOD’S RIGHT WAY
Jeremiah 6:16 warns about the dangers of deserting “the old paths.” I frequently warn (like the watchmen of verse 17) about the competing philosophy of postmodernism. Some influential people claim to be postmodern Christians, but the two are incompatible. The New Testament equivalent of this passage is Matthew 7:13-14 (and verse 15 adds a specific warning about “false” believers who teach wrong doctrine).
3. JESUS IS THE WAY, AND HE WILL NEVER LEAVE US
In John 14:6, Jesus proclaims this absolute statement: “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life: no man cometh unto the Father but by Me.” When we enter into a personal relationship with Jesus, He saves us completely and keeps us forever. My wife has a T-shirt that pictures falling leaves and says, “Fall for Jesus. He never leaves.” That theology is correct, for our Savior has promised, “I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee” (Hebrews 13:5c). The memorial that seals this and every other promise of God is the Cross.
CONCLUSION – What will others remember about us? May they recall our simple, sincere faith, and may they be drawn to that same saving faith.