Joshua 4:22

you are to tell them, 'Israel crossed the Jordan on dry ground.'

Study Bible

you are to tell them
This phrase emphasizes the importance of oral tradition and the passing down of God's mighty acts to future generations. In the ancient Near Eastern culture, storytelling was a primary means of preserving history and teaching values. This command reflects the biblical principle of teaching children about God's works, as seen in Deuteronomy 6:7, where parents are instructed to diligently teach their children about God's commandments.

‘Israel crossed the Jordan
The crossing of the Jordan River is a pivotal event in Israel's history, marking the transition from the wilderness wanderings to the conquest of the Promised Land. The Jordan River, a significant geographical boundary, symbolized a barrier to the fulfillment of God's promises. This miraculous crossing parallels the earlier crossing of the Red Sea (Exodus 14), reinforcing God's power and faithfulness. It also prefigures Christian baptism, symbolizing the believer's passage from death to life.

on dry ground.’
The mention of "dry ground" highlights the miraculous nature of the event, as the river was at flood stage (Joshua 3:15). This miracle served to authenticate Joshua's leadership, as God had done for Moses at the Red Sea. It also demonstrated God's control over creation, affirming His sovereignty. The dry ground is a testament to God's provision and faithfulness, ensuring safe passage for His people. This event is a type of Christ, who provides a way through the barriers of sin and death, leading believers into the promises of eternal life.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The leader of the Israelites after Moses, tasked with leading the people into the Promised Land.

2. Israelites
The people of God, descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, who are entering the Promised Land.

3. Jordan River
The river that the Israelites miraculously crossed on dry ground as they entered Canaan.

4. Promised Land (Canaan)
The land promised by God to the descendants of Abraham, a symbol of God's faithfulness.

5. Memorial Stones
Twelve stones taken from the Jordan River to serve as a memorial for future generations of God's miraculous provision.

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness
The crossing of the Jordan on dry ground is a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. Just as He was faithful to Israel, He remains faithful to us today.

The Importance of Remembrance
The memorial stones serve as a physical reminder of God's miraculous works. We should also establish "memorials" in our lives to remember and testify to God's goodness.

Generational Testimony
The instruction to tell future generations about God's deeds emphasizes the importance of passing down faith accounts to our children and grandchildren.

Trust in God's Timing
The Israelites had to wait for God's perfect timing to enter the Promised Land. We, too, must trust in God's timing for the promises He has given us.

Living by Faith
Just as the Israelites stepped into the Jordan by faith, we are called to step out in faith in our own lives, trusting in God's provision and guidance.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the crossing of the Jordan River on dry ground demonstrate God's faithfulness to His promises?

2. In what ways can we create "memorials" in our own lives to remember and testify to God's work?

3. How can we effectively pass down accounts of God's faithfulness to future generations in our families or communities?

4. What are some areas in your life where you need to trust in God's timing, and how can the account of the Jordan crossing encourage you?

5. How does the act of stepping into the Jordan River by faith challenge you to step out in faith in your own life?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 14
The crossing of the Red Sea, where God parted the waters for the Israelites, parallels the crossing of the Jordan River, demonstrating God's consistent power and faithfulness.

Psalm 114
This psalm poetically recounts the crossing of the Jordan and the Red Sea, emphasizing God's mighty acts in nature for His people.

Hebrews 11
The faith chapter, which highlights the faith of the Israelites in crossing the Jordan, trusting in God's promises.

1 Peter 2:9-10
The concept of being a chosen people, called to declare the praises of God, connects with the purpose of the memorial stones as a testimony to future generations.