A.B. Simpson emphasizes that true victory begins with self-conquest, drawing parallels to Joshua's battle where Moses' uplifted arms symbolized reliance on divine strength rather than human effort. He highlights that spiritual triumph comes from being led by the Spirit, which empowers believers to overcome sin and live under grace. Simpson warns that internal struggles can hinder one's spiritual journey, as seen in Saul's life, and encourages believers to seek victory over their inner enemies to serve the Lord effectively. The sermon ultimately points to Jesus as the greater Joshua who enables us to achieve holiness and victory.

Every victor must first be a self-conqueror. But the method of Joshua's victory was the uplifted arm of Moses on the mount. As Moses held up his hands, Joshua prevailed; as he lowered them, Amalek prevailed. It was to be a battle of faith and not of human strength. The banner that was to wave over the discomfited foe was Jehovah-nissi. This, too, is the secret of our spiritual triumph. If we are led of the Spirit we shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh (Galatians 5:16). Sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace (Romans 6:14). Have we begun the battle and in the strength of Christ planted our feet on our own necks? And thus victorious over the enemy in the citadel of the heart, have we been set at liberty for the battle of the Lord and the service of others? It was this lack that hindered the life of Saul, and it has wrecked many a promising career. One enemy in the heart is stronger than ten thousand in the field. May the Lord lead us all into Joshua's first triumph and show us the secret of self crucifixion through the greater Joshua, who alone can lead us on to holiness and victory!