Joshua 4:23

For the LORD your God dried up the waters of the Jordan before you until you had crossed over, just as He did to the Red Sea, which He dried up before us until we had crossed over.

Study Bible

For the LORD your God
This phrase emphasizes the personal relationship between the Israelites and God. The use of "LORD" in all caps signifies the Hebrew name YHWH, which is the covenant name of God, highlighting His eternal, self-existent nature. The phrase "your God" underscores the personal and covenantal relationship God has with His people, reminding them of His faithfulness and their identity as His chosen people. This relationship is foundational to the Israelites' identity and mission, and it serves as a reminder of God's promises and His active role in their history.

dried up the waters of the Jordan
The miraculous drying up of the Jordan River is a testament to God's power over creation. The Hebrew word for "dried up" (יָבֵשׁ, yabesh) conveys the complete removal of water, symbolizing God's ability to make a way where there seems to be none. This event parallels the parting of the Red Sea, reinforcing God's consistent deliverance and provision for His people. Archaeologically, the Jordan River's significance as a boundary and life source in the region underscores the magnitude of this miracle, as it allowed the Israelites to enter the Promised Land.

before you until you had crossed over
This phrase highlights God's direct intervention and guidance in the Israelites' journey. The act of crossing over the Jordan signifies a transition from the wilderness into the Promised Land, a fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham. The phrase "before you" indicates God's leadership and protection, ensuring the safe passage of His people. Historically, this crossing marks a pivotal moment in Israel's history, as they move from a nomadic existence to establishing a nation in the land God promised them.

just as the LORD your God did to the Red Sea
By referencing the Red Sea, this phrase draws a parallel between the two miraculous events, reinforcing God's consistent faithfulness and power. The parting of the Red Sea is one of the most significant acts of deliverance in Israel's history, symbolizing salvation and liberation from bondage. This comparison serves to remind the Israelites of God's past faithfulness and to encourage trust in His continued provision. Scripturally, it connects the Exodus narrative with the conquest of Canaan, showing the continuity of God's plan for His people.

which He dried up before us until we had crossed over
This repetition of the miracle's description emphasizes its importance and the personal experience of God's deliverance. The phrase "before us" personalizes the narrative, inviting the Israelites to remember their collective experience of God's power. The act of crossing over is not just a physical journey but a spiritual one, symbolizing a transition from slavery to freedom, from promise to fulfillment. This historical event is a testament to God's unwavering commitment to His covenant and His ability to overcome any obstacle for His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who demonstrates His power and faithfulness by performing miracles for His people.

2. Joshua
The leader of Israel who succeeded Moses, guiding the Israelites into the Promised Land.

3. The Jordan River
The body of water that God miraculously dried up to allow the Israelites to cross into Canaan.

4. The Israelites
The people of God, descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, who are entering the Promised Land.

5. The Red Sea
The sea that God parted during the Exodus, allowing the Israelites to escape from Egypt.

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness
God is faithful to His promises. Just as He led Israel through the Red Sea and the Jordan, He will lead us through our challenges.

Miracles as Reminders
The miracles of the Jordan and the Red Sea serve as reminders of God's power and presence. Reflect on how God has worked in your life.

Leadership and Obedience
Joshua's leadership and the people's obedience were crucial. Consider how God calls us to lead and follow in faith.

Trust in God's Timing
The Israelites had to wait for God's timing to cross the Jordan. Trust in God's perfect timing for the events in your life.

Memorials of Faith
The stones taken from the Jordan served as a memorial. Establish spiritual "memorials" in your life to remember God's faithfulness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the crossing of the Jordan River compare to the crossing of the Red Sea, and what does this teach us about God's consistency?

2. In what ways can we create "memorials" in our lives to remember God's faithfulness and provision?

3. How does the leadership of Joshua inspire us to lead with faith and courage in our own communities?

4. Reflect on a time when you had to trust in God's timing. How did that experience strengthen your faith?

5. How can the account of the Jordan River crossing encourage us to face seemingly insurmountable obstacles in our lives today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 14
The parting of the Red Sea is a foundational event in Israel's history, demonstrating God's deliverance and power.

Psalm 114
This psalm poetically recounts the miraculous events of the Exodus and the crossing of the Jordan, emphasizing God's sovereignty over nature.

Hebrews 11
The faith of the Israelites in crossing the Red Sea is highlighted as an example of faith in action.

Isaiah 43
God promises to do new things for His people, reminding them of past deliverances like the crossing of the Red Sea.