Faithless Discretion and Foolish Faith – Elder's Choice 2026 – Numbers 13–14

Sermon by Pastor John DeVriesWhen does caution become unbelief—and when does zeal become presumption? Numbers 13–14 presents both dangers as Israel stands on the edge of the Promised Land.In this sermon, John DeVries examines the difference between faithful prudence and faithless discretion, as well as the danger of a reckless zeal that runs ahead of God’s call. The central question is not whether something appears risky or ambitious, but whether God has truly called his people to it. Where he calls, faith must follow; where he has not called, zeal cannot substitute for obedience.—Vineland Road is a resource ministry of the Christian Reformed Church of St. Joseph, Michigan. For more Reformed preaching and other confessionally Reformed resources, visit crcstjoseph.com.