Introduction

• 2 Corinthians 6:1-2

• Joshua 4:1-24

How does God help us remember?

1. He used literal stones

• Joshua 4:3

• Joshua 4:5-9

• Joshua 4:20

• Matthew 14:24-33

2. He uses living stones

• Joshua 4:1-2

• Joshua 4:10-11

• Acts 9:2

• Acts 19:9

• Acts 11:26

• Joshua 5:1

• 1 Peter 2:4-5

• Joshua 4:6-7

• Joshua 4:20-22

• Proverbs 10:7

• John 14:26

• Luke 19:40

Application:

Do you have reminders around you of God's work in your life?

Are you a witness of those reminders and making new ones with those around you?

Warmup Question

What is something physical you keep because it reminds you of an important moment or person in your life? Why does it matter to you?

Sermon Discussion

Read: Joshua 4:1–24

1. God Uses Literal Stones

Read: Joshua 4:3, Joshua 4:5–9, Joshua 4:20

• Why do you think God wanted Israel to build a physical memorial?

• What are some “stones of remembrance” in your life that remind you of God’s faithfulness?

• Why is it easy to forget what God has done during difficult seasons?

• How can physical reminders help strengthen faith?

Key Insight: God instructed Israel to take twelve stones from the middle of the Jordan and stack them as a memorial. Every time someone saw those stones, they would remember God stopped the waters and brought His people safely through. The stones were

Meant to spark conversation. Peter stepping out onto the water became a living reminder of Jesus’ power and Peter’s need for faith. Even failures and rescues can become memorial stones in our lives.

2. God Uses Living Stones

Read: Matthew 14:24-33 and 1 Peter 2:4–5

John 14:26

• What does it mean to be a “living stone” today?

• How can our lives remind others of God’s goodness?

• Joshua 4 repeatedly emphasizes children asking questions (“What do these stones mean?”) What stories of God’s work should your family or small group continue passing on?

• Who helped you remember or understand God’s faithfulness when you were younger?

Key Insight: The memorial in Joshua 4 was not just about stones — it was about people telling the story. God chose twelve men, one from each tribe, to carry the stones. The people themselves became witnesses of God’s mighty work. Later in Scripture, believers are called “living stones” built into God’s spiritual house (1 Peter 2:4–5). Christians become walking reminders of God’s grace, mercy, and transforming power. We are meant to preserve and proclaim the memory of God’s faithfulness.

Application

• Do you have reminders around you of God’s work in your life?

• Are you intentionally sharing those stories with others?

• What spiritual memories are you creating for the next generation?

• If someone looked at your life, what would remind them of God?

Closing Prayer

“Lord, thank You for Your faithfulness in every season of life. Help us not forget Your goodness, rescue, and provision. Make us faithful witnesses and living reminders of Your grace to our families, friends, and future generations. Teach us to remember well and to tell the story of what You have done. In Jesus’ name, amen.”