Four Steps to God’s Promises

Pastor Matthew paused the Following Jesus series for a special message as The Tree Church stands at a pivotal moment. With the Logan campus preparing to launch, he turned to Joshua 3–6, where Israel entered the Promised Land. He reminded the church that God’s story continues through His people today. Just as Israel faced defining steps, The Tree Church is called to walk in obedience and faith.

The sermon began with a review of God’s promise to Abraham, that his descendants would inherit a land flowing with milk and honey. For 400 years they lived in slavery, but God raised up Moses to lead them out of Egypt. After miracles like the Passover and the Red Sea, Israel wandered in the wilderness due to unbelief. When the next generation returned under Joshua’s leadership, God prepared them with four commands: release, remember, recommit, and receive.

Before Israel could enter the land, they had to release fear and unbelief. At flood season, God parted the Jordan River as priests carrying the Ark stepped in. The people crossed on dry ground, and God cut away their doubts. Pastor Matthew explained that baptism represents this same release, dying to self and rising to live for God.

He challenged the church to ask what God needs to release from their lives. Is it addiction, selfishness, or anxiety? Just as Israel’s fear had to be removed, individuals and the church must allow God to set them free so they can fully embrace His calling.

God then told Joshua to build a memorial of twelve stones from the Jordan. Each generation would see the stones and remember God’s faithfulness. Pastor Matthew stressed the importance of pausing to reflect on how God has worked in the past because His faithfulness fuels trust for the next step.

The Tree Church looked back at its own journey: from a storefront, to 230 North Columbus, to the current building, to the youth center, and now to Logan. Each season was a reminder of God’s provision. Remembering builds faith for what lies ahead.

The third command was for Israel to recommit. Every man was circumcised, and the nation celebrated Passover. This marked a rededication of their lives and families to God before taking the land.

Pastor Matthew explained that recommitment often feels risky. Following God does not always make logical sense with time, finances, or personal comfort. Yet true faith requires sacrifice. Members of the church leaving Lancaster for Logan are making that recommitment. Though it is bittersweet, the greater calling is worth the cost — lives will be changed.

Finally, Israel received the promise at Jericho. God gave Joshua a strategy that seemed illogical: march around the walls, blow trumpets, and shout. In obedience, the walls fell and the city was captured.

For The Tree Church, receiving the promise means not conquering people but overcoming spiritual forces that bring division and brokenness. Pastor Matthew declared that the church will faithfully love and serve Logan, trusting that God will bring restoration and salvation.

This message called both individuals and the church to a posture of trust and obedience. God asks His people to release what holds them back, remember His past faithfulness, recommit fully to His calling, and then receive His promises.

As the church launches Logan, Pastor Matthew reminded everyone that this is not the end but the beginning. More cities will come, more steps of faith will be required, and God will continue to show Himself faithful.