Joshua 4:20

And there at Gilgal Joshua set up the twelve stones they had taken from the Jordan.

Study Bible

And there at Gilgal
Gilgal is significant as the first campsite of the Israelites after crossing the Jordan River into the Promised Land. It is located near Jericho and served as a base for their operations in Canaan. Gilgal means "circle of stones," which may refer to the memorial stones set up by Joshua. This site becomes a place of remembrance and renewal of the covenant, as seen in later events such as the circumcision of the new generation and the celebration of Passover (Joshua 5:2-12).

Joshua set up the twelve stones
The act of setting up stones is a common biblical practice for creating memorials or altars (Genesis 28:18, 1 Samuel 7:12). These stones served as a physical reminder of God's miraculous intervention in stopping the Jordan River, allowing the Israelites to cross on dry ground. The number twelve represents the twelve tribes of Israel, symbolizing unity and collective memory. This act reinforces the importance of remembering God's faithfulness and teaching future generations about His deeds (Joshua 4:6-7).

they had taken from the Jordan
The stones were taken from the middle of the Jordan River, where the priests carrying the Ark of the Covenant stood (Joshua 4:3). This emphasizes the miraculous nature of the crossing, as the river was at flood stage (Joshua 3:15). The stones' origin from the riverbed highlights God's power over nature and His ability to fulfill His promises. This event parallels the crossing of the Red Sea, reinforcing God's continuous guidance and provision for His people.

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 the book of Joshua, known for his faithfulness and obedience to God.

2. Gilgal
A location near the Jordan River where the Israelites camped after crossing the river. It became a significant place of remembrance and renewal for the Israelites.

3. The Twelve Stones
Stones taken from the Jordan River by representatives of the twelve tribes of Israel. These stones served as a memorial to the miraculous crossing of the Jordan River.

4. The Jordan River
The river that the Israelites crossed to enter the Promised Land. God miraculously stopped its flow to allow the Israelites to cross on dry ground.

5. The Israelites
The people of God, descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, who were delivered from slavery in Egypt and brought to the Promised Land.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Remembrance
Just as the Israelites set up stones to remember God's faithfulness, we should establish practices or symbols in our lives to remind us of God's work and promises.

Passing Down Faith
The stones were meant to provoke questions from future generations. We should be intentional in sharing our faith accounts with the next generation.

God's Faithfulness in Transition
The crossing of the Jordan marked a transition for the Israelites. Trusting God during times of change is crucial, as He is faithful to lead us through.

Symbolism in Worship
Physical symbols can play a significant role in our worship and remembrance of God's deeds. Consider how symbols in your own life or church can enhance your spiritual journey.

Community and Unity
The twelve stones represented the twelve tribes, highlighting the importance of unity and community in the body of believers.

Bible Study Questions

1. What are some ways you can create "memorial stones" in your life to remember God's faithfulness?

2. How can you effectively share accounts of God's work in your life with the next generation?

3. In what ways can you trust God during transitions or changes in your life, as the Israelites did when crossing the Jordan?

4. How do physical symbols or practices in your church or personal life help you remember and worship God?

5. What steps can you take to promote unity and community within your church or small group, reflecting the unity of the twelve tribes?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 12
The Passover serves as another memorial of God's deliverance, similar to the stones at Gilgal.

Deuteronomy 6
Emphasizes the importance of remembering and teaching God's acts to future generations.

1 Samuel 7
The setting up of the Ebenezer stone by Samuel as a memorial of God's help.

Psalm 78
A call to remember and recount the mighty works of God to the next generation.

Hebrews 11
The faith of the Israelites in crossing the Jordan is part of the larger account of faith in God's promises.