Deuteronomy 27:2

And on the day you cross the Jordan into the land that the LORD your God is giving you, set up large stones and coat them with plaster.

Study Bible

And on the day
This phrase sets a specific time frame, indicating a moment of significant action and transition. In the Hebrew context, "day" (יוֹם, yom) often signifies not just a 24-hour period but a divinely appointed time. This highlights the importance of timing in God's plan, reminding believers that God orchestrates events in His perfect timing.

you cross the Jordan
The Jordan River is a critical geographical and spiritual boundary for the Israelites. Crossing it symbolizes entering into the promises of God, a transition from the wilderness into the Promised Land. Historically, the Jordan was a formidable barrier, and crossing it required faith and obedience. This act is a metaphor for believers stepping into their God-given destinies, leaving behind past struggles and embracing new beginnings.

into the land
The "land" refers to Canaan, the Promised Land, a central theme in the Old Testament. It represents God's covenant faithfulness and the fulfillment of His promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. For Christians, it symbolizes the spiritual inheritance and abundant life promised through faith in Christ.

the LORD your God is giving you
This phrase emphasizes the divine origin of the gift. The land is not earned by the Israelites' merit but is a gracious gift from God. The Hebrew word for "giving" (נָתַן, natan) implies a continuous action, suggesting that God's provision is ongoing. This reflects the Christian belief in grace, where salvation and blessings are gifts from God, not based on human effort.

you are to set up
This command involves action and preparation. The Hebrew root (קוּם, qum) means to establish or erect, indicating a deliberate and purposeful act. It underscores the importance of obedience and preparation in receiving God's promises. For believers, it is a call to actively participate in God's work and prepare their hearts for His blessings.

large stones
Stones in biblical times were often used as memorials or altars. These "large stones" serve as a physical reminder of God's covenant and faithfulness. Archaeologically, such stones have been found, confirming the biblical narrative. Spiritually, they represent the enduring nature of God's promises and the importance of remembering His works in our lives.

and coat them with plaster
The act of coating with plaster (שִׂיד, sid) was a common practice to prepare surfaces for writing. This indicates that the stones were to be inscribed with the law, making it visible and permanent. It symbolizes the importance of God's Word being clearly displayed and accessible, a reminder for believers to keep God's commandments at the forefront of their lives.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who is delivering God's commandments to the people before they enter the Promised Land.

2. The Israelites
The chosen people of God who are about to enter the Promised Land after their exodus from Egypt and years of wandering in the desert.

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

4. The Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which God promised to Abraham and his descendants.

5. Large Stones
Physical markers to be set up by the Israelites as a memorial and a means to inscribe the law.

Teaching Points

Memorials of Faith
Setting up stones serves as a physical reminder of God's faithfulness and the covenant relationship. Consider how we can create "memorials" in our lives to remember God's work and promises.

The Importance of God's Law
The act of inscribing the law on stones highlights the permanence and importance of God's commandments. Reflect on how we prioritize and internalize God's Word in our daily lives.

Obedience and Preparation
The instruction to prepare the stones before entering the land signifies the importance of obedience and readiness to follow God's commands. Evaluate how we prepare our hearts and lives to follow God's will.

Community and Accountability
The communal act of setting up stones involves the entire nation, emphasizing the role of community in upholding God's law. Consider how we can support and hold each other accountable in our faith communities.

Crossing into New Beginnings
Crossing the Jordan represents a transition into a new phase of God's promise. Reflect on the transitions in our own lives and how we can trust God through them.

Bible Study Questions

1. What significance do the large stones have in the context of the Israelites' journey, and how can we create similar reminders of God's faithfulness in our lives today?

2. How does the act of inscribing the law on stones relate to the way we engage with Scripture in our daily lives?

3. In what ways can we prepare ourselves spiritually for the "new beginnings" or transitions that God leads us into?

4. How can we foster a sense of community and accountability in our faith journey, similar to the communal act of setting up stones?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced a "crossing of the Jordan" moment in your life. How did you see God's hand at work, and what did you learn from that experience?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joshua 4
This chapter describes the actual crossing of the Jordan River and the setting up of stones as a memorial, fulfilling the command given in Deuteronomy 27:2.

Exodus 24
The covenant ceremony at Mount Sinai where Moses builds an altar and sets up twelve pillars, paralleling the setting up of stones as a witness to the covenant.

Deuteronomy 6
The command to keep God's laws in their hearts and to teach them diligently, which is symbolized by the inscribing of the law on stones.

Psalm 119
Emphasizes the importance of God's law and the desire to meditate on it continually, reflecting the purpose of inscribing the law on stones.

Hebrews 8
Discusses the new covenant where God's laws are written on hearts, contrasting the physical stones with the spiritual internalization of God's commandments.