Joshua 4:5

and said to them, "Cross over before the ark of the LORD your God into the middle of the Jordan. Each of you is to take a stone upon his shoulder, according to the number of the tribes of Israel,

Study Bible

and said to them
This phrase indicates a direct command from Joshua, who is acting under divine instruction. The Hebrew root for "said" is "אָמַר" (amar), which often conveys not just speaking but declaring or commanding with authority. Joshua, as the leader appointed by God, is fulfilling his role as a mediator of God's will to the people. This highlights the importance of obedience to divinely appointed leadership within the community of faith.

Cross over
The Hebrew word for "cross over" is "עָבַר" (avar), which means to pass through or go over. This action is symbolic of transition and transformation, representing the movement from the wilderness into the Promised Land. It signifies a step of faith and obedience, as the Israelites are called to trust in God's provision and guidance.

before the ark of the LORD your God
The "ark of the LORD" is central to Israel's worship and represents God's presence among His people. The Hebrew word for "ark" is "אֲרוֹן" (aron), which refers to a chest or box, specifically the sacred chest containing the tablets of the covenant. The phrase underscores the necessity of God's presence and guidance in the journey of faith. The ark going before them signifies that God leads His people and that their actions should be in alignment with His divine will.

into the middle of the Jordan
The Jordan River is a significant geographical and spiritual boundary. The Hebrew word for "middle" is "תָּוֶךְ" (tavek), meaning the midst or center. This command to go into the middle of the Jordan emphasizes the miraculous nature of the crossing, as the river was at flood stage. It is a testament to God's power to make a way where there seems to be none, reinforcing the theme of divine intervention and faith.

Each of you is to take up a stone on his shoulder
The act of taking up a stone is both a physical and symbolic gesture. The Hebrew word for "stone" is "אֶבֶן" (eben), which often represents strength and permanence. Carrying the stone on the shoulder indicates the weight and significance of the task. This action serves as a memorial of God's faithfulness and a tangible reminder of the miraculous crossing, intended to inspire future generations to remember and trust in God's promises.

according to the number of the tribes of Israel
This phrase highlights the unity and collective identity of the twelve tribes of Israel. The number twelve is significant in biblical numerology, often representing completeness and divine order. Each tribe's participation in this act of remembrance underscores the communal aspect of God's covenant with Israel. It serves as a reminder that God's promises and blessings are for the entire community, not just individuals, and that each tribe has a role in the unfolding of God's plan.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. The Ark of the LORD
A sacred chest that held the tablets of the Ten Commandments, representing God's presence among His people.

3. The Jordan River
The river that the Israelites crossed to enter the Promised Land, symbolizing a transition from the wilderness to the fulfillment of God's promise.

4. The Twelve Tribes of Israel
The descendants of the twelve sons of Jacob, each represented by a stone taken from the Jordan.

5. The Memorial Stones
Stones taken from the Jordan River to serve as a lasting memorial of God's faithfulness in bringing the Israelites into the Promised Land.

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness
The stones serve as a tangible reminder of God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. We should also set up "memorials" in our lives to remember God's work.

Leadership and Obedience
Joshua's leadership and the people's obedience to God's command highlight the importance of following God's appointed leaders and His instructions.

Symbolism of the Stones
Each stone represents a tribe, emphasizing unity and collective memory. In our communities, we should strive for unity and shared remembrance of God's deeds.

Generational Teaching
The stones were meant to prompt questions from future generations, teaching them about God's mighty acts. We should be intentional in passing down our faith accounts to the next generation.

Faith in Action
The act of crossing the Jordan required faith. We are called to step out in faith, trusting God to lead us through challenges and into His promises.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the act of taking stones from the Jordan River symbolize in your personal walk with God?

2. How can you create "memorials" in your life to remember God's faithfulness and share them with others?

3. In what ways does Joshua's leadership inspire you to lead or follow in your community or family?

4. How can the unity of the twelve tribes in this passage inform our approach to unity within the church today?

5. Reflect on a time when you had to step out in faith. How does the crossing of the Jordan encourage you in current or future challenges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 14
The crossing of the Red Sea parallels the crossing of the Jordan, both demonstrating God's miraculous provision and faithfulness.

Deuteronomy 27
The setting up of stones as a memorial is echoed in the instructions for setting up stones on Mount Ebal with the law written on them.

1 Samuel 7
The setting up of the Ebenezer stone by Samuel as a reminder of God's help, similar to the memorial stones from the Jordan.

Psalm 114
A poetic reflection on the power of God in nature, including the parting of the Jordan River.

Hebrews 11
The faith of the Israelites in crossing the Jordan is part of the broader account of faith in God's promises.