Joshua 4:2

"Choose twelve men from among the people, one from each tribe,

Study Bible

Choose twelve men
In this phrase, the number twelve is significant throughout the Bible, often symbolizing completeness or the people of God, as seen in the twelve tribes of Israel and the twelve apostles. The Hebrew root for "choose" (בָּחַר, bachar) implies a deliberate selection, indicating that these men were not randomly picked but were chosen for a specific purpose. This reflects God's intentionality in His plans and His desire for order and representation among His people.

from among the people
This phrase emphasizes the communal aspect of the Israelites' journey. The men were not outsiders but were selected from within the community, highlighting the importance of unity and shared identity. Historically, this underscores the collective experience of the Israelites as they entered the Promised Land, a journey that required the participation and cooperation of the entire nation.

one from each tribe
The instruction to select one man from each tribe ensures that all tribes are represented equally, reinforcing the unity and equality among the tribes of Israel. This inclusivity is crucial in maintaining harmony and preventing division. It also serves as a reminder that each tribe, regardless of size or status, has a role in the fulfillment of God's promises. Theologically, this can be seen as a precursor to the New Testament teaching that all members of the body of Christ are important and have unique roles to play.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Twelve Men
Representatives from each of the twelve tribes of Israel, chosen for a specific task.

3. The Tribes of Israel
The descendants of the twelve sons of Jacob, each tribe representing a significant part of the nation of Israel.

4. The Jordan River
The body of water the Israelites crossed to enter the Promised Land, symbolizing a transition from the wilderness to the fulfillment of God's promise.

5. Memorial Stones
Stones taken from the Jordan River to serve as a lasting memorial of God's faithfulness and the miraculous crossing.

Teaching Points

Representation and Unity
The selection of one man from each tribe emphasizes the unity and collective identity of God's people. Each tribe had a role and a voice, reminding us of the importance of unity in the body of Christ.

Remembrance and Testimony
The act of choosing twelve men to gather stones was to create a memorial. This teaches us the importance of remembering God's faithfulness and sharing testimonies of His work in our lives.

Obedience to God's Commands
Joshua's leadership and the people's obedience in following God's specific instructions highlight the importance of obedience in our walk with God.

Faith in Action
The crossing of the Jordan and the setting up of the stones required faith and action. We are called to step out in faith, trusting God's promises and acting upon His Word.

Bible Study Questions

1. What significance does the number twelve have in the context of Israel's history and God's covenant with His people?

2. How can we create "memorial stones" in our own lives to remember and testify to God's faithfulness?

3. In what ways does the unity of the twelve tribes in this passage reflect the unity we should strive for in the church today?

4. How does the obedience of the Israelites in this passage challenge us to respond to God's commands in our own lives?

5. What are some practical ways we can step out in faith, as the Israelites did when crossing the Jordan River?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 24:4
Moses sets up twelve pillars representing the twelve tribes, similar to the twelve stones in Joshua 4, symbolizing covenant and remembrance.

Numbers 13:2
Twelve men, one from each tribe, are sent to spy out the land of Canaan, showing a pattern of representation and responsibility.

Revelation 21:12-14
The New Jerusalem has twelve gates and twelve foundations, each associated with the tribes and apostles, reflecting the continuity of God's people.