Joshua 4:17

So Joshua commanded the priests, "Come up from the Jordan."

Study Bible

So Joshua commanded the priests
Joshua, as the leader of Israel, acts with authority given by God. His command reflects obedience to God's instructions, as seen throughout the book of Joshua. The priests, who carry the Ark of the Covenant, symbolize God's presence among His people. This moment highlights the importance of spiritual leadership and obedience to divine guidance. Joshua's role as a leader can be seen as a type of Christ, who leads His people into the promises of God.

“Come up from the Jordan.”
The Jordan River represents a boundary between the wilderness and the Promised Land. The command to "come up" signifies a transition from wandering to entering into God's promises. This act is a fulfillment of God's promise to bring Israel into the land He swore to their ancestors. The crossing of the Jordan parallels the crossing of the Red Sea, both miraculous events that demonstrate God's power and faithfulness. The Jordan River is also significant in the New Testament, as it is the site of Jesus' baptism, marking the beginning of His public ministry and symbolizing a new beginning for humanity.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The leader of the Israelites after Moses, tasked with leading the people into the Promised Land. His name in Hebrew, "Yehoshua," means "Yahweh is salvation," which is significant as he leads the people into a new chapter of God's promise.

2. The Priests
These were the Levitical priests carrying the Ark of the Covenant. Their role was crucial as they represented God's presence among the people.

3. The Jordan River
A significant geographical and spiritual landmark for the Israelites. Crossing it symbolized entering into the promises of God.

4. The Ark of the Covenant
A sacred chest that held the tablets of the Law, representing God's covenant with Israel and His presence among them.

5. The Israelites
The people of God, who were transitioning from a nomadic life in the wilderness to settling in the Promised Land.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Command
Joshua's command to the priests highlights the importance of obedience in leadership and following God's instructions precisely.

God's Faithfulness
The crossing of the Jordan is a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to His people.

Symbolism of the Jordan
The Jordan River represents transitions in our spiritual journey, where we leave behind the old and step into the new promises of God.

Role of Spiritual Leaders
The priests carrying the Ark show the importance of spiritual leaders in guiding and supporting the community in their faith journey.

Remembering God's Acts
This event encourages us to remember and commemorate God's mighty acts in our lives, just as the Israelites set up memorial stones.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joshua's leadership in this passage reflect the qualities of a godly leader, and how can we apply these qualities in our own leadership roles?

2. In what ways does the crossing of the Jordan River serve as a metaphor for spiritual transitions in our lives today?

3. How can we, like the priests, carry the presence of God into challenging situations in our lives?

4. What are some "Jordan Rivers" in your life that God is calling you to cross, and how can you prepare for these transitions?

5. How can we create memorials or reminders in our lives to remember and celebrate God's faithfulness and past deliverance?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 14
The crossing of the Red Sea parallels the crossing of the Jordan, both representing deliverance and the beginning of a new journey with God.

Hebrews 11
The faith of the Israelites in crossing the Jordan is part of the larger account of faith demonstrated by God's people throughout history.

Matthew 3
The Jordan River is also where John the Baptist baptized Jesus, symbolizing a new beginning and the fulfillment of God's promises.