Joshua 4:9

Joshua also set up twelve stones in the middle of the Jordan, in the place where the priests who carried the ark of the covenant stood. And the stones are there to this day.

Study Bible

Joshua also set up
The act of setting up stones is a significant biblical motif, often symbolizing remembrance and covenant. The Hebrew root for "set up" is "קוּם" (qum), which means to establish or raise. This action by Joshua is not merely physical but deeply spiritual, signifying the establishment of a memorial to God's faithfulness. It reflects the importance of creating tangible reminders of divine intervention and guidance in the lives of the Israelites.

twelve stones
The number twelve is symbolic throughout Scripture, representing the twelve tribes of Israel. These stones serve as a collective memorial for the entire nation, emphasizing unity and shared heritage. The stones are a physical representation of the covenant between God and His people, reminding them of their identity and God's promises. The use of stones as memorials is consistent with ancient Near Eastern practices, where stones often marked significant events or covenants.

in the middle of the Jordan
The location "in the middle of the Jordan" is crucial. The Jordan River was a formidable barrier to the Israelites entering the Promised Land, and its crossing was a miraculous event. By placing the stones in the river's midst, Joshua ensures that the memorial is directly associated with God's miraculous intervention. This act signifies that God's presence and power are central to Israel's journey and success.

where the priests who carried the ark of the covenant stood
The "priests who carried the ark of the covenant" represent the spiritual leadership and the presence of God among His people. The Ark was the most sacred object in Israel, symbolizing God's throne and His covenant with Israel. The priests standing in the river with the Ark signifies God's direct involvement and leadership in the crossing. The stones mark the exact spot where God's presence was manifest, serving as a perpetual reminder of His guidance and protection.

And they are there to this day
This phrase underscores the enduring nature of the memorial. The stones' continued presence serves as a lasting testimony to future generations of God's faithfulness and the historical reality of the event. It invites reflection on the importance of remembering and teaching God's mighty acts to subsequent generations. The phrase suggests that the memorial's significance transcends time, continually pointing back to God's unchanging nature and His covenantal promises.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The leader of the Israelites after Moses, tasked with leading them into the Promised Land. He is a central figure in this passage, demonstrating obedience and leadership.

2. Twelve Stones
These stones were set up as a memorial to the miraculous crossing of the Jordan River by the Israelites. They symbolize God's faithfulness and the fulfillment of His promises.

3. Jordan River
A significant geographical location where the Israelites crossed into the Promised Land. It represents a boundary between the wilderness and the land of promise.

4. Priests
The priests carried the Ark of the Covenant and stood in the Jordan River, signifying God's presence and leading the people.

5. Ark of the Covenant
A sacred chest that held the tablets of the Law, representing God's covenant with Israel and His presence among His people.

Teaching Points

Memorials of Faith
Just as Joshua set up stones to remember God's faithfulness, we should establish memorials in our lives to remind us of God's work and promises.

God's Presence in Transition
The presence of the Ark in the Jordan signifies God's presence during times of transition. Trust in God's guidance as you move through life's changes.

Obedience and Leadership
Joshua's actions demonstrate the importance of obedience to God's commands and the role of leadership in guiding others in faith.

Faith in Action
The Israelites' crossing of the Jordan required faith. We are called to step out in faith, trusting in God's promises even when the path seems uncertain.

Legacy of Faith
The stones were a testimony to future generations. Consider how your faith and actions today can impact and inspire future generations.

Bible Study Questions

1. What significance do the twelve stones hold in your personal faith journey, and how can you create similar memorials in your life?

2. How does the crossing of the Jordan River encourage you to trust God in your current life transitions?

3. In what ways can you demonstrate obedience and leadership in your community or family, following Joshua's example?

4. Reflect on a time when you had to step out in faith. How did you experience God's presence and provision during that time?

5. How can you ensure that your faith and actions leave a lasting legacy for future generations, similar to the stones set up by Joshua?

Connections to Other Scriptures

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

1 Samuel 7
The setting up of a stone by Samuel as a memorial, called Ebenezer, which also serves as a reminder of God's help and faithfulness.

Psalm 77
Reflects on God's mighty deeds and wonders, encouraging believers to remember and trust in God's past faithfulness.