What role do the priests play in Joshua 3:6, and why is it significant? Setting the Scene Israel is poised to enter the promised land, but the Jordan River stands between them and Canaan—at flood stage (Joshua 3:15). The Lord’s plan hinges on a handful of men in priestly garments. The Priests’ Assignment in Joshua 3:6 “Joshua said to the priests, ‘Pick up the ark of the covenant and go on ahead of the people.’ So they picked it up and went ahead of them.” What they do: • Lift the Ark of the Covenant—the visible throne of the invisible God (Exodus 25:21-22). • Step out in front of all of Israel, leading rather than following. • Stand in the riverbed until every last Israelite crosses (Joshua 3:17). Why the Priestly Role Matters • Tangible Presence: Carrying the Ark means carrying God’s own presence (Numbers 10:35-36). When the priests move, the people see that God Himself is moving. • Mediators of Holiness: Only priests may handle the holy Ark (Numbers 4:15; Deuteronomy 10:8). Their consecration safeguards the nation from judgment while granting safe passage. • Faith in Action: The river does not part until their feet touch the water (Joshua 3:13). Their obedience triggers the miracle; faith precedes sight. • Leadership Transfer: Just as Moses lifted his staff at the Red Sea, the priests now bear the Ark under Joshua, confirming him as God’s chosen leader (Joshua 3:7). • Covenant Reminder: The Ark contains the tablets of the Law (Hebrews 9:4). By elevating it before the people, the priests spotlight the unbreakable covenant that guarantees Israel’s inheritance. Echoes in the Broader Biblical Story • Red Sea Parallel—Exodus 14:21-22: Priestly feet in the Jordan echo Moses’ staff over the sea, bookending the wilderness years with two water crossings. • Future Processions—1 Samuel 4:4; 2 Samuel 6:13: The Ark continues to go before Israel in battles and celebrations, always borne by priests. • Foreshadowing the High Priest—Hebrews 4:14-16: Just as the priests make a path through death-like waters, Christ our High Priest opens the way into God’s presence. Takeaways for Today • God still leads His people through consecrated servants who lift up His presence, not their own stature. • Miracles often wait on obedient, faith-filled steps—water parts only when the priests step in. • The covenant promises of God remain the sure foundation for every forward move of His people. |
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