1. The altar that became a Bible (30-32)

Joshua built an altar according to the specifications of the Law of Moses. After offering blood sacrifices to atone for sin, Joshua copied on the stones of the altar the blessings and the curses written in the Law of Moses. The altar became a Bible.

2. A solemn promise before God (33-35)

Half of the people stood in front of Mount Ebal, and half stood in front of Mount Gerizim. The ark of the covenant was between them. Joshua read to them the words of the Law--the blessings and the curses. When he read the curses, the people standing on Mount Ebal shouted, 'Amen.' When he read the blessings, those standing on Mount Gerizim shouted 'Amen.' This ceremony marked the new beginning that had been made in the promised land. God's people are a people of the Book. The Bible is our only rule of faith and practice. It tells us what the life of blessing is, and what the life of curse is. When we believe God's promises and obey his commands, he blesses us, and we are truly blessed.

Application: Lord, help me to obey your word so that I may live under your blessing.
One Word: Obey God's word and be blessed