Compare Israel's journey in Numbers 21:13 with another biblical journey. Setting the Scene: Numbers 21:13 “From there they set out and camped on the other side of the Arnon, which is in the wilderness extending into the boundary of the Amorites; for the Arnon is the border of Moab, between Moab and the Amorites.” • Israel is still in the wilderness, but right on the edge of the Promised Land. • The Arnon River marks a political and spiritual boundary: Moab on one side, Amorite territory on the other. • God leads them to camp at this strategic border before bringing victory over Sihon (vv. 21-31). Parallel Journey: Joshua 3:14-17 “So when the people set out from their tents to cross the Jordan with the priests carrying the ark of the covenant before the people, and when the priests who carried the ark entered the Jordan, and the feet of the priests carrying the ark were dipped in the edge of the water… the waters… were cut off… and the people crossed opposite Jericho.” • Forty years later, a new generation stands at another boundary river—the Jordan. • The priests, ark in hand, step into the water first, and the river parts. • The nation crosses from wilderness wandering into promised inheritance. Key Parallels 1. Boundary Rivers – Arnon and Jordan both demarcate enemy territory from covenant territory. – Each crossing or encampment signals a new phase in God’s promise. 2. Divine Timing – Numbers 21:13 shows God pausing Israel before battle; Joshua 3 shows Him pausing them before inheritance. – Waiting on God’s command is essential (cf. Deuteronomy 2:24; Joshua 3:7). 3. God’s Presence and Power – In Numbers the pillar of cloud/fire has guided them; in Joshua the ark, visible and central, leads. – Victories on both sides of the rivers (Sihon/Og, then Jericho) prove the Lord fights for His people (Joshua 5:13-15). 4. Faith Response – Israel must trust while bordered by potential foes at Arnon. – Israel must step into a flooded Jordan in faith. – Paul later affirms, “We walk by faith, not by sight” (2 Corinthians 5:7). Notable Contrasts • Numbers encampment = preparation; Joshua crossing = fulfillment. • Wilderness still surrounds them in Numbers; cultivated Canaan awaits them in Joshua. • Leadership: Moses directs in Numbers; Joshua, the successor, leads across the Jordan. Timeless Takeaways • God often brings His people to borders where faith must be exercised before progress is granted. • Every boundary—physical or spiritual—can become a testimony to God’s sovereignty when crossed in obedience (Psalm 114:1-8). • The same Lord who held back Arnon’s threats and parted the Jordan still leads believers step-by-step toward His promises today (Hebrews 13:8). |
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