Joshua 3:6

And he said to the priests, "Take the ark of the covenant and go on ahead of the people." So they carried the ark of the covenant and went ahead of them.

Study Bible

And Joshua said
The name "Joshua" is derived from the Hebrew "Yehoshua," meaning "Yahweh is salvation." Joshua, as the leader of Israel, is a type of Christ, who leads His people into the promised inheritance. His role as a leader is pivotal, and his command here signifies the divine authority bestowed upon him. The act of speaking to the priests underscores his leadership and the importance of divine guidance in the journey of faith.

to the priests
The priests in Israel held a sacred role as mediators between God and the people. They were from the tribe of Levi, specifically chosen to perform religious duties. Their involvement in carrying the ark signifies the holiness and reverence required in approaching God. This highlights the necessity of spiritual leadership and the importance of consecration in the service of God.

Take up the ark of the covenant
The "ark of the covenant" was a sacred chest that held the tablets of the Law, Aaron's rod, and a pot of manna. It symbolized God's presence and covenant with Israel. The Hebrew word for "ark" is "aron," meaning a chest or box, but its significance is far greater as it represents God's throne on earth. The command to "take up" the ark indicates the need to carry God's presence with them, emphasizing the centrality of God in their journey and battles.

and go on ahead of the people
This phrase signifies leadership and guidance. The ark going ahead of the people symbolizes God leading His people. It is a reminder that God goes before us, preparing the way and ensuring victory. Historically, this act of the ark leading the procession was a demonstration of faith and obedience, as the Israelites were about to cross the Jordan River into the Promised Land.

So they carried the ark of the covenant
The obedience of the priests in carrying the ark reflects their faithfulness and dedication to God's command. This act of carrying the ark is a physical manifestation of bearing the presence of God. It serves as a reminder of the responsibility of believers to carry God's presence in their lives, being vessels of His glory and truth.

and went ahead of them
The priests going ahead of the people with the ark is a powerful image of divine leadership. It reassures the Israelites that God is with them, leading them into new territories. This act is a precursor to the miraculous crossing of the Jordan River, demonstrating that when God leads, obstacles are overcome. It is an encouragement for believers to trust in God's leading, knowing that He goes before us in every challenge and opportunity.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The leader of the Israelites after Moses, tasked with leading them into the Promised Land. His leadership is marked by faithfulness and obedience to God's commands.

2. The Priests
The Levitical priests were responsible for carrying the Ark of the Covenant. Their role was crucial as they were intermediaries between God and the people.

3. The Ark of the Covenant
A sacred chest that held the tablets of the Law, representing God's presence and covenant with Israel. It was central to Israel's worship and guidance.

4. The Israelites
The people of God, who were on the brink of entering the Promised Land after wandering in the desert for 40 years.

5. The Jordan River
The body of water that the Israelites needed to cross to enter the Promised Land. It represents a barrier that God would miraculously help them overcome.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Commands
Joshua's instruction to the priests demonstrates the importance of obedience in leadership. As believers, we are called to follow God's guidance even when the path is unclear.

The Role of Spiritual Leaders
The priests carrying the Ark symbolize the responsibility of spiritual leaders to guide and intercede for their communities. Leaders today should seek to carry God's presence and lead with integrity.

God's Presence Goes Before Us
The Ark going ahead of the people signifies that God's presence leads and prepares the way for His people. We can trust that God is with us in every challenge we face.

Faith in Action
The act of taking up the Ark and moving forward requires faith. Believers are encouraged to step out in faith, trusting that God will fulfill His promises.

Preparation for New Beginnings
Crossing the Jordan was a new beginning for Israel. In our lives, we should be prepared for the new things God wants to do, leaving behind past failures and embracing His future plans.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joshua's leadership in this passage reflect the qualities of a godly leader, and how can we apply these qualities in our own leadership roles?

2. In what ways does the Ark of the Covenant symbolize God's presence in our lives today, and how can we ensure that we are following His guidance?

3. What barriers or "Jordan Rivers" are you facing in your life, and how can you trust God to help you overcome them?

4. How can the role of the priests in this passage inspire us to support and pray for our spiritual leaders?

5. Reflect on a time when you had to step out in faith. How did you see God's presence and guidance in that situation, and how can that experience encourage you in your current walk with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 25
Describes the construction of the Ark of the Covenant, emphasizing its significance as the dwelling place of God's presence among His people.

Numbers 10
Details the role of the Ark in guiding the Israelites during their wilderness journey, highlighting its function as a symbol of divine guidance.

Hebrews 11
Discusses the faith of the Israelites, including their crossing of the Jordan, as an example of trusting in God's promises.