Joshua 4:14

On that day the LORD exalted Joshua in the sight of all Israel, and they revered him all the days of his life, just as they had revered Moses.

Study Bible

On that day
This phrase marks a specific moment in time, indicating a significant event in the narrative of Israel's history. The context here is the miraculous crossing of the Jordan River, a pivotal moment for the Israelites as they enter the Promised Land. The phrase "on that day" underscores the immediacy and importance of God's actions and timing. It reminds us that God operates within His divine timeline, orchestrating events for His purposes.

the LORD
The use of "the LORD" here refers to Yahweh, the covenant name of God, emphasizing His faithfulness and sovereignty. This name is deeply rooted in the Hebrew tradition, signifying the eternal, self-existent nature of God. It is a reminder of His unchanging character and His commitment to His promises. In the context of Joshua, it highlights God's active role in leading and establishing His people.

exalted Joshua
The exaltation of Joshua is a divine act, signifying God's approval and empowerment of Joshua as the leader of Israel. The Hebrew root for "exalted" conveys the idea of lifting up or elevating. This act of exaltation is not merely for Joshua's benefit but serves to establish his authority among the people, ensuring that they recognize him as God's chosen leader, much like Moses before him.

in the sight of all Israel
This phrase indicates that Joshua's exaltation was a public event, witnessed by the entire nation. It was important for the people to see and acknowledge Joshua's leadership, ensuring unity and obedience as they embarked on the conquest of Canaan. The public nature of this event underscores the communal aspect of Israel's journey and the importance of collective faith and obedience.

and they revered him
The reverence shown to Joshua by the Israelites is a response to God's exaltation of him. The Hebrew word for "revered" can also be translated as "feared" or "respected," indicating a deep sense of awe and recognition of authority. This reverence is not just for Joshua as a man but for the God who appointed him. It reflects the proper attitude of the people towards their divinely appointed leader.

as they had revered Moses
This comparison to Moses is significant, as Moses was the quintessential leader and prophet in Israel's history. By stating that the people revered Joshua as they had revered Moses, the text emphasizes the continuity of leadership and God's ongoing guidance. It reassures the Israelites that just as God was with Moses, He is now with Joshua, providing stability and confidence as they face new challenges.

all the days of his life
This phrase highlights the enduring nature of Joshua's leadership and the people's respect for him. It suggests that Joshua's influence and authority were not fleeting but lasted throughout his lifetime. This enduring respect is a testament to Joshua's faithfulness and the effectiveness of his leadership, as well as God's continued presence and blessing upon him and the nation of Israel.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The central figure in this passage, Joshua is the leader of the Israelites following Moses. He is exalted by God, signifying his divine appointment and leadership.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who actively participates in the history of His people by exalting Joshua, demonstrating His continued guidance and presence.

3. Israel
The nation of God's chosen people, who witness the exaltation of Joshua and respond with reverence, acknowledging his leadership.

4. Moses
The former leader of Israel, whose leadership and reverence by the people set a precedent for Joshua's leadership.

5. The Jordan River Crossing
The event preceding this verse, where God miraculously stopped the waters of the Jordan River, allowing Israel to cross on dry ground, affirming Joshua's leadership.

Teaching Points

Divine Appointment and Leadership
God appoints leaders according to His purpose. Just as Joshua was exalted, we should recognize and respect the leaders God places in our lives.

Continuity of God's Work
The transition from Moses to Joshua shows that God's work continues through different leaders. We should trust in God's ongoing plan and provision.

Reverence and Respect for Godly Leadership
The Israelites revered Joshua as they did Moses. We are called to respect and support our spiritual leaders, recognizing their role in God's plan.

Faithfulness and Obedience
Joshua's exaltation was a result of his faithfulness to God. Our own faithfulness and obedience can lead to God's blessing and honor in our lives.

Witnessing God's Power
The miraculous crossing of the Jordan River was a testament to God's power. We should be attentive to the ways God demonstrates His power in our lives and communities.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the exaltation of Joshua in Joshua 4:14 demonstrate God's faithfulness to His promises?

2. In what ways can we show reverence and support for the leaders God has placed in our lives today?

3. How does the transition of leadership from Moses to Joshua encourage us to trust in God's ongoing work in our lives?

4. What are some practical ways we can demonstrate faithfulness and obedience to God in our daily lives?

5. How can we be more attentive to witnessing and acknowledging God's power and presence in our personal and communal experiences?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 34:9
This verse describes how Joshua was filled with the spirit of wisdom because Moses had laid his hands on him, establishing a connection between Moses' leadership and Joshua's.

1 Samuel 2:30
This verse speaks of God honoring those who honor Him, which is relevant to Joshua's exaltation as he faithfully follows God's commands.

Hebrews 13:7
This verse encourages believers to remember their leaders and consider the outcome of their way of life, which parallels the reverence shown to Joshua.