Joshua 3:5

Then Joshua told the people, "Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the LORD will do wonders among you."

Study Bible

Then Joshua told the people
This phrase sets the stage for a pivotal moment in Israel's history. Joshua, as the leader appointed by God after Moses, is addressing the Israelites. The Hebrew root for "told" is "amar," which implies a declaration or command. Joshua's role as a leader is not just administrative but deeply spiritual, guiding the people in obedience to God's will. Historically, this moment is significant as it precedes the miraculous crossing of the Jordan River, a testament to God's faithfulness and power.

Consecrate yourselves
The Hebrew word for "consecrate" is "qadash," meaning to sanctify, prepare, or dedicate. This command is a call to spiritual purification and readiness. In the ancient context, consecration involved rituals such as washing, abstaining from certain activities, and offering sacrifices. It signifies a setting apart for a holy purpose. For the Israelites, this was a preparation to witness God's mighty acts, reminding us that spiritual readiness is crucial for experiencing God's work in our lives.

for tomorrow
The mention of "tomorrow" indicates an imminent divine intervention. It creates a sense of anticipation and urgency. In the biblical narrative, "tomorrow" often signifies a new beginning or a significant event orchestrated by God. This temporal marker encourages the Israelites to prepare with expectation and faith, knowing that God's timing is perfect and His promises are sure.

the LORD
The use of "the LORD" refers to Yahweh, the covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal, unchanging nature and His relationship with Israel. This name is a reminder of God's faithfulness and His role as the divine warrior and protector of His people. It underscores that the wonders to come are acts of Yahweh, reinforcing His sovereignty and power.

will do wonders
The phrase "will do wonders" comes from the Hebrew "pala," meaning to perform extraordinary or miraculous acts. This promise of wonders is a testament to God's supernatural intervention in human history. The wonders God performs are not just displays of power but are purposeful, revealing His glory and fulfilling His promises. For the Israelites, these wonders would affirm God's presence and His commitment to lead them into the Promised Land.

among you
The phrase "among you" highlights the personal and communal nature of God's actions. God's wonders are not distant or abstract; they occur in the midst of His people, demonstrating His intimate involvement in their lives. This assurance of God's presence among the Israelites is a source of comfort and strength, reminding them that they are not alone as they face the challenges ahead. It calls believers today to recognize and celebrate God's active presence in their own communities and lives.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The leader of the Israelites after Moses, tasked with leading them into the Promised Land. He is a central figure in the book of Joshua, known for his faithfulness and obedience to God.

2. The Israelites
The people of God, descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, who are on the brink of entering the Promised Land after wandering in the desert for 40 years.

3. Consecration
A process of making oneself holy or set apart for God's purposes. In the context of Joshua 3:5, it involves spiritual preparation for witnessing God's miraculous works.

4. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, who is about to perform miraculous deeds to demonstrate His power and faithfulness to His promises.

5. The Promised Land
The land of Canaan, promised by God to the descendants of Abraham, a symbol of God's faithfulness and the fulfillment of His promises.

Teaching Points

The Call to Holiness
Consecration is a call to holiness and purity, setting ourselves apart for God's purposes. It involves both spiritual and moral preparation.

Expectancy of God's Work
Joshua's instruction to consecrate themselves was in anticipation of God's wonders. We should live with expectancy, preparing our hearts for God's work in our lives.

Obedience Precedes Miracles
The Israelites' obedience in consecrating themselves was a prerequisite for witnessing God's miraculous acts. Our obedience to God's commands often precedes His blessings and interventions.

Personal and Communal Preparation
Consecration was both an individual and communal act for the Israelites. Similarly, our spiritual preparation should involve personal devotion and communal worship and accountability.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does it mean to consecrate yourself in today's context, and how can you apply this in your daily life?

2. How does the concept of consecration in Joshua 3:5 relate to the New Testament call to holiness found in 1 Peter 1:15-16?

3. In what ways can you prepare your heart and life to witness God's wonders, both personally and within your community?

4. Reflect on a time when obedience to God preceded a significant blessing or intervention in your life. How did that experience shape your faith?

5. How can the church today encourage both personal and communal consecration in anticipation of God's work among us?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 19:10-11
Before God gave the Ten Commandments, the Israelites were instructed to consecrate themselves, highlighting the importance of preparation before encountering God's presence.

Leviticus 20:7-8
God commands His people to consecrate themselves and be holy, for He is the LORD who sanctifies them, emphasizing the ongoing call to holiness.

1 Peter 1:15-16
Peter calls believers to be holy in all their conduct, reflecting the call to consecration and holiness found throughout Scripture.