Joshua 4:24

He did this so that all the peoples of the earth may know that the hand of the LORD is mighty, and so that you may always fear the LORD your God."

Study Bible

He did this
This phrase refers to the actions of God, emphasizing His direct involvement in the events described. In the context of Joshua 4, God is the one orchestrating the miraculous crossing of the Jordan River. The Hebrew root for "did" is "עָשָׂה" (asah), which means to make, do, or accomplish. This highlights God's active role in the history of Israel, reminding us that He is not a distant deity but one who intervenes in the lives of His people to fulfill His promises.

so that all the peoples of the earth
This phrase expands the scope of God's actions beyond Israel to include all nations. The Hebrew word for "peoples" is "עַמִּים" (amim), which often refers to nations or ethnic groups. This underscores the universal nature of God's power and His desire for all humanity to recognize His sovereignty. Historically, Israel was meant to be a light to the nations, demonstrating God's character and inviting others to know Him.

may know
The Hebrew word "יָדַע" (yada) means to know, perceive, or understand. This is not merely intellectual knowledge but an experiential understanding. God's actions are intended to lead to a deep, personal recognition of His power and authority. This knowledge is transformative, calling for a response of reverence and worship.

that the hand of the LORD
The "hand of the LORD" is a metaphor for God's power and intervention. In Hebrew, "יָד" (yad) signifies strength and capability. This imagery is used throughout Scripture to depict God's mighty acts, such as delivering Israel from Egypt. It reassures believers of God's ability to act decisively in history and in their personal lives.

is mighty
The word "mighty" in Hebrew is "חָזָק" (chazaq), meaning strong or powerful. This emphasizes the overwhelming strength of God, which is unmatched by any earthly power. The crossing of the Jordan River is a testament to this might, as God controls nature itself to fulfill His purposes. This serves as a reminder of God's omnipotence and His ability to overcome any obstacle.

and so that you may always fear the LORD your God
The phrase "fear the LORD" involves reverence, awe, and respect for God. The Hebrew word "יָרֵא" (yare) conveys a sense of awe and worshipful submission. This fear is not about being afraid but about recognizing God's holiness and responding with obedience and devotion. The historical context of Israel's journey shows that their success depended on their faithfulness to God, and this fear was meant to guide their relationship with Him continually.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The leader of the Israelites after Moses, who led them into the Promised Land.

2. The Israelites
God's chosen people, who crossed the Jordan River into Canaan.

3. The Jordan River
The body of water that God miraculously stopped so the Israelites could cross on dry ground.

4. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, demonstrating His power and faithfulness.

5. The Peoples of the Earth
Refers to all nations, highlighting God's universal sovereignty and the witness of His mighty acts.

Teaching Points

The Power of God
Recognize that God's hand is mighty and active in the world. His power is not just historical but present and available to us today.

Fear of the LORD
Cultivate a reverent awe and respect for God. This fear is not terror but a recognition of His holiness and authority.

Witness to the Nations
Understand that God's works in our lives are a testimony to others. We are called to share His deeds and character with the world.

Faith in Action
Just as the Israelites had to step into the Jordan, we are called to step out in faith, trusting in God's promises and power.

Remembrance and Teaching
Like the stones set up as a memorial, we should remember and teach the next generation about God's faithfulness and mighty acts.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the crossing of the Jordan River demonstrate the power of God, and how can we see His power in our lives today?

2. In what ways can we cultivate a healthy fear of the LORD in our daily walk with Him?

3. How can we be effective witnesses to the "peoples of the earth" about the mighty acts of God in our lives?

4. What are some "Jordan River" moments in your life where you have seen God work powerfully, and how can you use these as a testimony to others?

5. How can we ensure that the next generation knows about the mighty works of God, and what practical steps can we take to teach them?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 14
The crossing of the Red Sea parallels the crossing of the Jordan, both demonstrating God's power and faithfulness.

Psalm 66:3-5
Speaks of God's awesome deeds and power, inviting all the earth to see His works.

1 Samuel 17:46
David's declaration that the whole world will know there is a God in Israel, similar to the purpose of the Jordan crossing.

Isaiah 41:20
God's acts are so that people may see and know, consider and understand that the hand of the LORD has done this.

Acts 1:8
The call for believers to be witnesses to the ends of the earth, echoing the purpose of God's mighty acts.