Joshua 4:7

you are to tell them, 'The waters of the Jordan were cut off before the ark of the covenant of the LORD. When it crossed the Jordan, the waters were cut off.' Therefore these stones will be a memorial to the Israelites forever."

Study Bible

you are to tell them
This phrase emphasizes the importance of oral tradition and the transmission of faith from one generation to the next. In the Hebrew context, the act of telling or recounting is not merely about relaying information but is a sacred duty to ensure that the mighty acts of God are remembered and revered. The Hebrew word for "tell" (נָגַד, nagad) implies a declaration or making something known, often with a sense of authority and purpose. This underscores the responsibility of the Israelites to pass down their history and experiences with God to their children, ensuring that the covenant relationship with God is maintained.

that the waters of the Jordan
The Jordan River holds significant historical and spiritual symbolism in the Bible. It represents a boundary and a crossing point, a place of transition from the wilderness into the Promised Land. The mention of the "waters of the Jordan" here is a reminder of God's miraculous intervention. The Jordan River, which was a formidable barrier, was parted by God, allowing the Israelites to cross on dry ground. This miracle echoes the earlier crossing of the Red Sea, reinforcing God's power and faithfulness. The Hebrew word for "waters" (מַיִם, mayim) often symbolizes chaos and danger, which God overcomes to deliver His people.

were cut off
The phrase "were cut off" signifies a divine intervention where the natural order is suspended. The Hebrew word used here (כָּרַת, karat) can mean to cut or to make a covenant. In this context, it highlights God's sovereign power to alter creation for the sake of His people. This miraculous event serves as a testament to God's ability to remove obstacles and fulfill His promises. It also symbolizes the cutting off of the old life of wandering and the beginning of a new chapter in the Promised Land.

before the ark of the covenant of the LORD
The "ark of the covenant" is central to Israel's identity and worship. It represents God's presence among His people and His covenant with them. The ark leading the way into the Jordan signifies that it is God Himself who goes before His people, ensuring their safe passage. The Hebrew word for "ark" (אֲרוֹן, aron) is associated with a chest or container, but in this sacred context, it is the throne of God on earth. The presence of the ark in this miracle underscores the holiness and authority of God, who is faithful to His covenant promises.

When it crossed the Jordan
This phrase marks the moment of transition and fulfillment of God's promise to bring His people into the land He swore to their ancestors. The crossing of the Jordan is not just a physical act but a spiritual milestone. It signifies the end of the Israelites' wilderness journey and the beginning of their life in the land flowing with milk and honey. The act of crossing is a step of faith, trusting in God's provision and guidance. It is a reminder that God is faithful to lead His people through challenges and into His promises.

the waters of the Jordan were cut off
Reiterating the miraculous nature of the event, this phrase emphasizes the power of God to control nature. The repetition serves to reinforce the significance of the miracle and its impact on the Israelites' faith. It is a call to remember and testify to God's mighty works. The cutting off of the waters is a divine act that sets the stage for the Israelites' conquest of Canaan, demonstrating that nothing is impossible for God.

These stones are to be a memorial
The stones taken from the Jordan and set up as a memorial serve as a tangible reminder of God's faithfulness and power. In the Hebrew tradition, memorials are significant as they provide a physical representation of spiritual truths. The Hebrew word for "memorial" (זִכָּרוֹן, zikaron) implies remembrance and commemoration. These stones are meant to provoke questions and storytelling, ensuring that future generations understand and appreciate the mighty acts of God. They serve as a perpetual reminder of God's deliverance and the importance of faith and obedience.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The leader of the Israelites after Moses, tasked with leading them into the Promised Land.

2. The Israelites
The people of God, who are crossing the Jordan River into the Promised Land.

3. The Jordan River
The body of water that the Israelites miraculously crossed on dry ground.

4. The Ark of the Covenant
A sacred chest that represented the presence of God among His people.

5. Memorial Stones
Twelve stones taken from the Jordan River to serve as a lasting memorial of God's miraculous intervention.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Remembrance
God commands the Israelites to set up memorial stones to remember His faithfulness. In our lives, we should establish practices or symbols that remind us of God's work and faithfulness.

God's Presence and Power
The Ark of the Covenant signifies God's presence. As believers, we should be aware of God's presence in our lives and trust in His power to overcome obstacles.

Passing Down Faith
The memorial stones were meant to prompt questions from future generations. We should be intentional about sharing our faith accounts with others, especially the next generation.

Faith in Action
The Israelites had to step into the Jordan before it parted. Our faith often requires us to take steps of obedience before we see God's provision.

Bible Study Questions

1. What are some "memorial stones" in your life that remind you of God's faithfulness, and how can you share these with others?

2. How does the crossing of the Jordan River compare to other miraculous events in the Bible, and what does this teach us about God's character?

3. In what ways can you be intentional about passing down your faith to the next generation?

4. How can you cultivate an awareness of God's presence in your daily life, similar to the Israelites with the Ark of the Covenant?

5. What steps of faith is God calling you to take today, and how can you trust Him to provide as you move forward?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 14
The crossing of the Red Sea, where God parted the waters for the Israelites, parallels the crossing of the Jordan River.

Deuteronomy 6
The importance of remembering and teaching future generations about God's mighty acts.

Psalm 78
A call to remember and recount the deeds of the Lord to the next generation.

1 Peter 2
Christians are described as living stones, built into a spiritual house, which can be seen as a New Testament parallel to the memorial stones.