Joshua 4:3

and command them: 'Take up for yourselves twelve stones from the middle of the Jordan where the priests were standing, carry them with you, and set them down in the place where you spend the night.'"

Study Bible

and command them:
This directive comes from God through Joshua, emphasizing the importance of obedience to divine instructions. It reflects the biblical theme of leadership and the role of God's chosen leaders in guiding His people. This command is part of a larger narrative where God is establishing Joshua's authority, similar to how Moses was commanded by God in the past.

‘Take up for yourselves twelve stones:
The number twelve is significant in biblical symbolism, representing the twelve tribes of Israel. This act serves as a memorial for the entire nation, signifying unity and collective memory. The stones are a physical representation of God's faithfulness and the fulfillment of His promises to the twelve tribes.

from the middle of the Jordan:
The Jordan River is a significant geographical and spiritual landmark in Israel's history. Crossing the Jordan symbolizes entering into the Promised Land, a pivotal moment for the Israelites. The middle of the river, where the waters were miraculously stopped, highlights God's direct intervention and power. This location underscores the miraculous nature of the event, as the stones are taken from a place that would normally be inaccessible.

where the priests were standing:
The priests carrying the Ark of the Covenant stood in the riverbed, symbolizing God's presence among His people. The Ark, representing God's covenant and His throne, signifies that it is by God's power and presence that the Israelites are able to cross. This mirrors the crossing of the Red Sea, where God's presence led the way.

carry them with you:
This instruction to carry the stones signifies the importance of remembering and bearing witness to God's acts. It is a call to actively participate in the remembrance of God's deliverance. The act of carrying the stones is a tangible way for the Israelites to engage with their history and faith.

and set them down in the place where you spend the night.’”
The stones are to be set up at the Israelites' first encampment in the Promised Land, Gilgal. This location becomes a place of remembrance and teaching for future generations. It serves as a physical reminder of God's faithfulness and the miraculous crossing, encouraging the Israelites to trust in God's continued guidance and provision.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The leader of the Israelites after Moses, tasked with leading the people into the Promised Land.

2. The Israelites
The people of God, who are crossing the Jordan River into the land promised to them by God.

3. The Jordan River
A significant geographical and spiritual boundary that the Israelites must cross to enter the Promised Land.

4. The Twelve Stones
Stones taken from the Jordan River to serve as a memorial for the miraculous crossing.

5. The Priests
Those who carried the Ark of the Covenant and stood in the Jordan River, causing the waters to part.

Teaching Points

Memorials of Faith
Just as the twelve stones served as a physical reminder of God's deliverance, we should establish memorials in our lives to remember God's faithfulness.

Obedience to God's Commands
The Israelites' obedience in taking the stones demonstrates the importance of following God's instructions, even when they may not fully understand the purpose.

The Role of Leadership
Joshua's leadership in directing the people to take the stones highlights the importance of godly leadership in guiding others to remember and honor God's works.

The Significance of Community
The collective action of the Israelites in setting up the stones underscores the importance of community in witnessing and remembering God's acts.

Faith in Action
The act of taking stones from the riverbed required faith that God would continue to hold back the waters, illustrating the need for faith in God's ongoing provision and protection.

Bible Study Questions

1. What significance do the twelve stones hold for the Israelites, and how can we create similar memorials in our own spiritual journeys?

2. How does the crossing of the Jordan River compare to other miraculous events in the Bible, and what does this teach us about God's power?

3. In what ways can we demonstrate obedience to God's commands in our daily lives, even when the reasons are not immediately clear?

4. How can we, as a community of believers, support one another in remembering and celebrating God's faithfulness?

5. Reflect on a time when you had to step out in faith, trusting in God's provision. How did that experience strengthen your relationship with Him?

Connections to Other Scriptures

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

1 Samuel 7
The setting up of the Ebenezer stone by Samuel as a memorial of God's help, similar to the twelve stones from the Jordan.

Psalm 114
A poetic reflection on the power of God over nature, including the parting of the Jordan River.

Matthew 3
John the Baptist baptizing in the Jordan River, symbolizing a new beginning, much like the Israelites' entry into the Promised Land.

1 Peter 2
The concept of believers as living stones, building a spiritual house, reflecting the idea of memorial stones as a testimony to God's work.