How does Joshua 4:5 demonstrate the importance of obedience to God's commands? Setting the Scene The Jordan River has stopped flowing, and the nation stands on dry ground. Joshua now relays God’s next instruction. Verse Spotlight: Joshua 4:5 “Cross over before the ark of the LORD your God into the middle of the Jordan. Each of you is to lift a stone onto his shoulder, according to the number of the tribes of the Israelites.” Obedience Illustrated • Immediate compliance―the men act while the riverbed is still miraculously dry. • Specific details―twelve men, one stone each, shoulder-carried, matching the tribes. • God-given authority―Joshua’s command carries weight because God had spoken (Joshua 4:1–3). • Visible testimony―their obedience produces a memorial that will testify to future generations (v. 6–7). Why This Matters • Obedience seals the miracle. Without their action, the memory stones would never exist. • Partial obedience is not enough; precise obedience honors every word God speaks (Deuteronomy 5:32). • Obedience creates teaching tools—God links remembrance to acted-out faith (Exodus 12:24–27). • Corporate obedience unites the community; each tribe participates, no one excluded (Psalm 133:1). Lessons for Believers Today • Respond promptly when God’s word directs—delayed obedience risks lost opportunities (James 1:22–25). • Fulfill the whole instruction, even the mundane parts; God’s purposes often ride on the seemingly small. • Recognize that obedience today builds faith monuments for tomorrow’s generation (Psalm 78:4–7). • Honor godly leadership that faithfully conveys Scripture; submitting to it is part of obeying God (Hebrews 13:17). Supporting Scripture • Joshua 1:7—“Only be strong and very courageous, being careful to do all the law…” • 1 Samuel 15:22—“To obey is better than sacrifice…” • John 14:15—“If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” |
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