Joshua 3:13

When the feet of the priests who carry the ark of the LORD--the Lord of all the earth--touch down in the waters of the Jordan, its flowing waters will be cut off and will stand up in a heap."

Study Bible

And when the soles of the feet of the priests
The phrase "soles of the feet" emphasizes the physical act of stepping into the water, symbolizing faith in action. The priests, as spiritual leaders, are the first to step into the Jordan, demonstrating trust in God's promise. In Hebrew, "soles" (כַּפּוֹת, kaphot) can also imply the base or foundation, suggesting that the priests' faith is foundational for the miracle to occur. This act of stepping into the water is a powerful image of obedience and trust, setting an example for the Israelites to follow.

carrying the ark of the LORD
The Ark of the Covenant represents God's presence among His people. It is not merely a religious artifact but a symbol of the divine covenant and guidance. The Hebrew word for "ark" (אֲרוֹן, aron) signifies a chest or container, but in this context, it is the sacred vessel containing the tablets of the Law, Aaron's rod, and manna. The priests carrying the ark signify that God's presence leads the way, and His promises are central to the Israelites' journey.

the Lord of all the earth
This title for God underscores His sovereignty and authority over all creation. The Hebrew word for "Lord" (אֲדוֹן, Adon) conveys mastery and ownership, while "earth" (אֶרֶץ, eretz) refers to the entire world. By declaring God as the "Lord of all the earth," the text affirms His power to control natural elements, such as the waters of the Jordan, and His rightful dominion over all nations and lands.

touch the waters of the Jordan
The Jordan River is a significant geographical and spiritual boundary for the Israelites. "Touch" (נָגַע, naga) implies contact and influence, suggesting that the mere presence of the ark, carried by the priests, is enough to initiate the miracle. The Jordan River, often a symbol of transition and purification, becomes the stage for God's power to manifest, marking the Israelites' entry into the Promised Land.

the flowing waters will be cut off
This phrase describes the miraculous intervention of God in nature. "Flowing waters" (מֵי הַיַּרְדֵּן, mei ha-yarden) indicates the natural, continuous movement of the river, which is suddenly halted. "Cut off" (נִכְרָתוּ, nikratu) suggests a decisive action, as if the waters are severed or divided. This act recalls the parting of the Red Sea, reinforcing God's ability to make a way where there seems to be none, and His faithfulness in fulfilling His promises.

and stand up in a heap
The imagery of waters standing "in a heap" (נֵד אֶחָד, ned echad) is both awe-inspiring and indicative of divine intervention. The Hebrew word "heap" suggests a piling up, as if the waters are gathered and held back by an invisible hand. This miraculous event serves as a testament to God's power and a sign to the Israelites and surrounding nations of His presence and favor with His people. It is a moment of divine revelation, where the natural order is suspended to fulfill God's purposes.

Persons / Places / Events

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

2. Priests
The Levitical priests who carried the Ark of the Covenant, representing God's presence among His people.

3. Ark of the Covenant
A sacred chest that held the tablets of the Law, symbolizing God's covenant with Israel.

4. Jordan River
The river that the Israelites needed to cross to enter the Promised Land.

5. The LORD (Yahweh)
Referred to as "the Lord of all the earth," emphasizing His sovereignty and power over creation.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty
The title "the Lord of all the earth" reminds us of God's ultimate authority over creation. We can trust Him to guide us through seemingly impossible situations.

Faith in Action
The priests had to step into the water before the miracle occurred. This teaches us that faith often requires us to take the first step, trusting in God's promises.

Symbol of New Beginnings
Crossing the Jordan marked a new chapter for Israel. In our lives, God often calls us to step into new territories, trusting Him for guidance and provision.

God's Presence
The Ark of the Covenant symbolized God's presence. As believers, we have the assurance of God's presence through the Holy Spirit, guiding us in our journey.

Miracles as Testimonies
The miraculous stopping of the Jordan's waters served as a testimony to God's power and faithfulness. Our lives can also be testimonies of God's work when we step out in faith.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the priests carrying the Ark of the Covenant relate to our role as believers in carrying God's presence into the world?

2. In what ways can we demonstrate faith in action, similar to the priests stepping into the Jordan River?

3. How does understanding God's sovereignty ("the Lord of all the earth") impact our trust in Him during challenging times?

4. What "Jordan Rivers" in your life require you to step out in faith, trusting God for a new beginning?

5. How can the account of the Jordan River crossing encourage us to share our testimonies of God's faithfulness with others?

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 continued faithfulness and power.

Psalm 114
This psalm poetically recounts the crossing of the Jordan, highlighting God's dominion over nature.

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

Matthew 3
The baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River connects to the theme of new beginnings and divine approval.