Joshua 4:21

Then Joshua said to the Israelites, "In the future, when your children ask their fathers, 'What is the meaning of these stones?'

Study Bible

Then Joshua said to the Israelites
Joshua, the leader of the Israelites after Moses, is speaking to the people of Israel. This moment occurs after the miraculous crossing of the Jordan River, where God stopped the waters to allow the Israelites to pass on dry ground. Joshua's leadership is crucial as he guides the people into the Promised Land, fulfilling God's promise to Abraham. This phrase highlights Joshua's role as a mediator between God and the Israelites, similar to Moses, and foreshadows Christ as the ultimate mediator.

In the future
This phrase indicates a forward-looking perspective, emphasizing the importance of remembering God's acts for future generations. It reflects the biblical theme of remembrance and the transmission of faith, as seen in Deuteronomy 6:6-9, where parents are instructed to teach God's commandments to their children. It underscores the continuity of God's covenant and the importance of historical memory in maintaining faith.

when your children ask their fathers
The phrase anticipates a time when children, curious about their heritage and faith, will seek understanding from their parents. This reflects the cultural and familial structure of ancient Israel, where oral tradition and storytelling were vital for passing down history and religious beliefs. It also highlights the responsibility of parents to educate their children in the ways of the Lord, as seen in Proverbs 22:6.

‘What is the meaning of these stones?’
The stones refer to the twelve stones taken from the Jordan River and set up at Gilgal as a memorial. This act of setting up stones as a memorial is a common practice in the Old Testament, serving as a tangible reminder of God's faithfulness and mighty acts. The stones symbolize the twelve tribes of Israel and God's deliverance, similar to the Passover as a memorial of the Exodus. This practice of creating physical reminders points to the sacraments in Christianity, such as baptism and communion, which serve as reminders of Christ's work.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The leader of the Israelites after Moses, who guided them into the Promised Land. He is a central figure in this passage, instructing the Israelites on the significance of the memorial stones.

2. The Israelites
The people of God who crossed the Jordan River into the Promised Land. They are the recipients of Joshua's instructions and the ones responsible for passing down the account to future generations.

3. The Jordan River
The body of water that the Israelites miraculously crossed on dry ground, symbolizing God's power and faithfulness.

4. Memorial Stones
Twelve stones taken from the Jordan River, set up as a memorial to remind future generations of God's miraculous intervention.

5. Future Generations
The children of the Israelites who will inquire about the meaning of the stones, representing the continuity of faith and the importance of teaching God's works.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Remembrance
Just as the Israelites set up stones to remember God's faithfulness, we should establish practices or symbols in our lives that remind us of God's work and promises.

Passing Down Faith
It is crucial for parents and elders to share accounts of God's faithfulness with younger generations, ensuring the continuity of faith.

God's Faithfulness in Our Lives
Reflect on personal "Jordan River" moments where God has intervened miraculously, and consider how to memorialize these events.

Engaging with Questions
Encourage curiosity and questions about faith from younger generations, using them as opportunities to teach and reinforce God's truths.

Community Testimony
The stones were a collective memorial for all Israel. Similarly, our testimonies should be shared within our communities to strengthen collective faith.

Bible Study Questions

1. What are some modern-day "memorial stones" you can establish in your life to remember God's faithfulness?

2. How can you effectively share accounts of God's work in your life with the next generation?

3. In what ways does your community of faith serve as a living testimony to God's power and faithfulness?

4. How do you respond to questions about your faith from others, especially from younger individuals?

5. Reflect on a time when God intervened in your life. How can you use that experience to encourage others in their faith journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 12
The Passover serves as another memorial for the Israelites, reminding them of God's deliverance from Egypt. This connection emphasizes the importance of remembering and teaching God's mighty acts.

Deuteronomy 6
The command to teach children about God's laws and deeds, highlighting the role of parents in spiritual education.

Psalm 78
A call to recount God's deeds to the next generation, reinforcing the theme of passing down faith accounts.

1 Peter 2
Christians are described as living stones, building a spiritual house, which can be connected to the idea of memorial stones as a testimony to God's work.