Sermon Questions
- Some have said that Christianity is about relationship with God, not rules. What do you think about this statement? How do rules and relationship fit together in the Christian faith?

- Pastor Josh said that God’s covenant with Israel was based on ancient treaties. In fact, Deuteronomy is structured like an ancient treaty. Those treaties include a historical prologue recounting the past relations between the sovereign king and the vassal state (Deut. 1-4), stipulations of what is required of the vassal state (Deut. 5-26), and blessings and curses for obedience or disobedience (Deut. 27-28). How does that inform your understanding of a relationship with God? Is it different for those of us under the new covenant?

- Read Joshua 8:30-31. Pastor Josh said burnt offerings are for atonement and peace offerings are to celebrate relationship with God and the covenant community. We renew our relationship with God through restoration and celebration. How can you focus more on restoration and celebration, in your individual life and in your participation in worship services?

- Read Joshua 8:32-35. Pastor Josh said we renew our relationship with God by living under his rule and blessing. What role should God’s Word play as you seek to live under God’s rule? How does the gospel motivate you to live under God’s Word?