How should we apply the principle of complete obedience from Joshua 11:14 today? Setting the Scene “‘The Israelites carried off for themselves all the plunder and livestock of these cities, but every person they struck with the sword until they had destroyed them; they did not spare anyone who breathed.’” — Joshua 11:14 God told Joshua to eradicate Canaanite armies and culture. Israel obeyed—completely. Their total obedience is the principle Scripture commends to us. What “Complete Obedience” Looked Like Then • No negotiating with the enemy • No selective obedience • Action carried out promptly and thoroughly • Trust that God’s command is wiser than human feelings Why the Principle Still Matters • God’s character has not changed (Malachi 3:6) • Jesus affirms obedience as love’s proof: “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” (John 14:15) • Partial obedience is disobedience: Saul lost his kingdom for sparing Amalekite plunder (1 Samuel 15:22-23) Areas Calling for Our Complete Obedience Today 1. Personal Holiness – Reject every form of sin, not just the “big” ones (1 Peter 1:14-16). – “Make no provision for the flesh” (Romans 13:14). 2. Truth & Doctrine – Guard the full counsel of Scripture without trimming unpopular parts (2 Timothy 4:2-3). – Speak truth in love, but still speak it (Ephesians 4:15). 3. Stewardship – Use money, time, and talents exactly as He directs (Matthew 25:14-30). – First-fruits giving, not leftovers (Proverbs 3:9). 4. Relationships – Forgive entirely, not partially (Matthew 18:21-22). – Love even enemies, not just friends (Luke 6:27-28). 5. Mission & Witness – Share the gospel with all nations, not just comfortable circles (Matthew 28:19-20). – Stand for Christ publicly, not covertly (Romans 1:16). How to Pursue Complete Obedience • Daily Scripture intake: “Your word is a lamp to my feet” (Psalm 119:105). • Prompt responsiveness: obey as soon as the Spirit convicts (James 1:22). • Accountability partnerships: “Iron sharpens iron” (Proverbs 27:17). • Prayerful dependence: “Apart from Me you can do nothing” (John 15:5). Blessings Tied to Obedience • Deeper intimacy with God (John 14:21). • Spiritual authority and fruitfulness (Joshua 1:7-9; John 15:7-8). • Unshakable assurance and peace (Isaiah 26:3). Takeaway Just as Israel’s victory required uncompromising obedience, our walk with Christ flourishes only when we hold nothing back. God still expects—and empowers—full, not partial, surrender. |
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