Joshua 4:18

When the priests carrying the ark of the covenant of the LORD came up out of the Jordan and their feet touched the dry land, the waters of the Jordan returned to their course and overflowed all the banks as before.

Study Bible

When the priests carrying the ark of the covenant of the LORD
The Ark of the Covenant was a sacred chest that held the tablets of the Ten Commandments, Aaron's rod, and a pot of manna. It symbolized God's presence and covenant with Israel. The priests carrying the Ark signifies the leadership and spiritual guidance of the Levites, who were set apart for holy duties. The Ark's presence in the crossing of the Jordan River underscores the divine intervention and guidance in Israel's journey to the Promised Land, reminiscent of the crossing of the Red Sea in Exodus 14.

came up out of the Jordan
The Jordan River was a significant geographical and spiritual boundary for the Israelites. Crossing it marked the transition from the wilderness wanderings to entering the Promised Land. This event is a fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham regarding the land (Genesis 15:18-21). The act of coming up out of the Jordan symbolizes a new beginning and the faithfulness of God in leading His people.

and their feet touched the dry land
The dry land signifies the miraculous nature of the crossing. Just as God parted the Red Sea, He also stopped the flow of the Jordan River, allowing the Israelites to cross on dry ground. This miracle reinforced God's power and presence with His people. The dry land also represents the fulfillment of God's promise and the tangible evidence of His provision and protection.

the waters of the Jordan returned to their course
The return of the waters to their natural course after the priests and the Ark had crossed signifies the completion of the miracle. It demonstrates God's control over nature and His ability to suspend natural laws for His purposes. This event would have served as a powerful reminder to the Israelites of God's sovereignty and might.

and overflowed all the banks as before
The overflowing of the banks indicates the natural state of the Jordan River during the harvest season, as mentioned earlier in Joshua 3:15. This detail highlights the miraculous nature of the crossing, as the river was at its fullest and most formidable. The return to normalcy after the crossing serves as a testament to the extraordinary intervention of God, reinforcing the idea that the Israelites' success in entering the Promised Land was due to divine assistance rather than human effort.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Priests
The spiritual leaders of Israel who carried the Ark of the Covenant. Their role was crucial in demonstrating faith and obedience to God's commands.

2. Ark of the Covenant
A sacred chest that held the tablets of the Law, representing God's presence and covenant with Israel. It was central to Israel's worship and identity.

3. Jordan River
A significant geographical landmark in Israel's history, representing a barrier to the Promised Land that God miraculously parted for the Israelites.

4. Israelites
The people of God, who were entering the Promised Land after years of wandering in the desert. Their journey is marked by acts of faith and reliance on God's promises.

5. Promised Land
The land of Canaan, promised by God to Abraham and his descendants. Crossing the Jordan was a pivotal moment in claiming this promise.

Teaching Points

Faith in Action
The priests stepping into the Jordan before it parted is a powerful example of faith. We are called to step out in faith, trusting God's promises even when the path is not clear.

God's Timing
The waters returned to their place only after the priests' feet touched the dry ground. God's timing is perfect, and His plans unfold according to His divine schedule.

Symbol of New Beginnings
Crossing the Jordan marked a new chapter for Israel. In our lives, God often calls us to leave behind the old and step into new beginnings with Him.

Obedience Leads to Miracles
The obedience of the priests and the people led to a miraculous event. Our obedience to God's commands can open the door to His miraculous work in our lives.

God's Presence
The Ark of the Covenant symbolized God's presence. We are reminded that God is with us in every step of our journey, guiding and protecting us.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the priests in Joshua 4:18 demonstrate the importance of spiritual leadership in our communities today?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of stepping out in faith, as the priests did, in our personal lives?

3. How does the crossing of the Jordan River serve as a reminder of God's faithfulness in your own life?

4. What are some "Jordan Rivers" in your life that require you to trust in God's timing and provision?

5. How can the presence of God, symbolized by the Ark of the Covenant, be a source of comfort and guidance in your daily walk with Him?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 14
The crossing of the Red Sea parallels the crossing of the Jordan, both demonstrating God's power and faithfulness in delivering His people.

Hebrews 11
The faith of the Israelites in crossing the Jordan is part of the broader account of faith that includes many Old Testament figures.

Psalm 114
This psalm poetically recounts the miraculous events of the Exodus and the crossing of the Jordan, emphasizing God's sovereignty over nature.