How do the connections to Moses and Joshua serve the author’s argument about Jesus, especially considering Professor Bartlett’s reminder that “Joshua” and “Jesus” are essentially the same name?
The use of the verse from Psalm 95, “today if you hear his voice, harden not your hearts,” is repeated in chapters 3 and 4. What does this strategic repetition tell us about the author’s writing style? Is this just for emphasis, or is it a homiletic tactic?
Applying the Text:
The homilist makes a great effort to let Scripture speak to the “today” of his addressees. Do you think he is effective? Does his method work in a twenty-first century context? Does this message feel like it reaches you right now?
How do you hear the call to harden not your heart if you hear his voice? What does it look like to keep your heart soft in response to God?