Joshua 4:14

On that day the LORD exalted Joshua in the sight of all Israel, and they revered him all the days of his life, just as they had revered Moses.

Study Bible

On that day
This phrase refers to a specific moment in time, the day when the Israelites crossed the Jordan River into the Promised Land. It marks a significant transition in Israel's history, symbolizing the fulfillment of God's promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The crossing of the Jordan is a pivotal event, akin to the crossing of the Red Sea, and signifies a new chapter for the nation under Joshua's leadership.

the LORD exalted Joshua
The exaltation of Joshua is a divine act, indicating God's approval and appointment of Joshua as the leader of Israel. This mirrors the way God had previously exalted Moses, establishing Joshua's authority and ensuring the people's confidence in his leadership. It underscores the theme of divine election and empowerment, as God chooses and equips leaders for His purposes.

in the sight of all Israel
This public exaltation ensures that the entire nation witnesses God's endorsement of Joshua. It is crucial for maintaining unity and obedience among the people, as they prepare to conquer the land. The visibility of this act reinforces the legitimacy of Joshua's leadership and serves as a unifying factor for the tribes of Israel.

and they revered him
The reverence shown to Joshua by the Israelites is a response to God's exaltation of him. It reflects the respect and obedience that the people are to have for God's chosen leader. This reverence is not merely personal admiration but is rooted in the recognition of God's authority working through Joshua.

all the days of his life
This phrase indicates the enduring nature of the respect and authority Joshua held among the Israelites. Unlike some leaders whose influence wanes, Joshua's leadership remains strong throughout his lifetime, suggesting his faithfulness and effectiveness in fulfilling God's commands.

just as they had revered Moses
The comparison to Moses highlights the continuity of leadership and the fulfillment of God's promises. Moses was a central figure in Israel's history, and his leadership set a standard for future leaders. By paralleling Joshua with Moses, the text emphasizes that Joshua is the rightful successor, continuing the mission of leading Israel into the Promised Land. This also points to the typology of Christ, as both Moses and Joshua serve as types of Christ, leading God's people to salvation and rest.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The central figure in this passage, Joshua is the leader of the Israelites following Moses. He is exalted by God, signifying his divine appointment and leadership.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who actively participates in the history of His people by exalting Joshua, demonstrating His continued guidance and presence.

3. Israel
The nation of God's chosen people, who witness the exaltation of Joshua and respond with reverence, acknowledging his leadership.

4. Moses
The former leader of Israel, whose leadership and reverence by the people set a precedent for Joshua's leadership.

5. The Jordan River Crossing
The event preceding this verse, where God miraculously stopped the waters of the Jordan River, allowing Israel to cross on dry ground, affirming Joshua's leadership.

Teaching Points

Divine Appointment and Leadership
God appoints leaders according to His purpose. Just as Joshua was exalted, we should recognize and respect the leaders God places in our lives.

Continuity of God's Work
The transition from Moses to Joshua shows that God's work continues through different leaders. We should trust in God's ongoing plan and provision.

Reverence and Respect for Godly Leadership
The Israelites revered Joshua as they did Moses. We are called to respect and support our spiritual leaders, recognizing their role in God's plan.

Faithfulness and Obedience
Joshua's exaltation was a result of his faithfulness to God. Our own faithfulness and obedience can lead to God's blessing and honor in our lives.

Witnessing God's Power
The miraculous crossing of the Jordan River was a testament to God's power. We should be attentive to the ways God demonstrates His power in our lives and communities.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the exaltation of Joshua in Joshua 4:14 demonstrate God's faithfulness to His promises?

2. In what ways can we show reverence and support for the leaders God has placed in our lives today?

3. How does the transition of leadership from Moses to Joshua encourage us to trust in God's ongoing work in our lives?

4. What are some practical ways we can demonstrate faithfulness and obedience to God in our daily lives?

5. How can we be more attentive to witnessing and acknowledging God's power and presence in our personal and communal experiences?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 34:9
This verse describes how Joshua was filled with the spirit of wisdom because Moses had laid his hands on him, establishing a connection between Moses' leadership and Joshua's.

1 Samuel 2:30
This verse speaks of God honoring those who honor Him, which is relevant to Joshua's exaltation as he faithfully follows God's commands.

Hebrews 13:7
This verse encourages believers to remember their leaders and consider the outcome of their way of life, which parallels the reverence shown to Joshua.