In this sermon from Joshua 24, Pastor Anson McMahon confronts the persistent cultural anthem of “I did it my way” with Joshua’s final charge: “Choose this day whom you will serve.”

Drawing from the end of Joshua’s life, Pastor Anson shows that every person already serves a master - whether self, money, approval, pleasure, or control - and that true freedom is found only in gladly submitting to the Lord.

Listeners are challenged to move beyond momentary enthusiasm into daily, Spirit-enabled obedience by continually inclining their hearts toward God.

Key Points

• Something or someone is always exercising lordship over your life; the only question is whom.
• Self is a terrible master because it is never satisfied.
• Money, approval, pleasure, and control are common false masters.
• No one can serve two masters (Matthew 6:24).
• Enthusiasm is not the same as obedience.
• The way to resist wandering from the Lord is to keep turning my heart towards the Lord.
• Five ways to incline your heart towards the Lord:
  1. Read your Bible every day.
  2. Join a Missional Community Group.
  3. Join the Bible study.
  4. Come to church weekly.
  5. Eikon Student Ministry.
• Christianity is not merely a list of doctrines to believe but a life we intentionally enter into by abiding in Christ.

Reflect & Discuss

1. Where have you most recently sensed the pull to live “my way,” and how does the finished work of Christ free you to trust Him as Master instead?
2. In what area of life is enthusiasm outrunning actual obedience, and what would it look like to depend on the Spirit rather than self-confidence?
3. How is the Lord inviting you this week to incline your heart toward Him in a concrete, daily way?

Main Passage Joshua 24:15-28

Supporting Passages

• Matthew 6:24
• Exodus 19 (and the golden calf episode)
• John 15:4-5
• 2 Peter 1:5
• 1 Timothy 4:7-8