The title "Commander of the LORD's Army" refers to a mysterious and divine figure who appears in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Joshua. This figure is often interpreted as a theophany, a manifestation of God Himself, or as an angelic being of high rank, possibly the pre-incarnate Christ. The encounter is significant for its theological implications and its role in the narrative of Israel's conquest of Canaan.

Biblical Account

The primary reference to the Commander of the LORD's Army is found in Joshua 5:13-15. As Joshua prepares to lead the Israelites in the conquest of Jericho, he encounters a man standing before him with a drawn sword:

"Now when Joshua was near Jericho, he looked up and saw a man standing in front of him with a drawn sword in his hand. Joshua approached him and asked, 'Are you for us or for our enemies?' 'Neither,' he replied. 'I have now come as commander of the LORD’s army.' Then Joshua fell facedown in reverence and asked him, 'What does my Lord have to say to His servant?' The commander of the LORD’s army replied, 'Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy.' And Joshua did so." (Joshua 5:13-15)

Theological Significance

1. Divine Authority: The appearance of the Commander underscores the divine authority and presence guiding Israel's military endeavors. The figure's command to Joshua to remove his sandals echoes God's instruction to Moses at the burning bush (Exodus 3:5), suggesting a direct encounter with the divine.

2. Holiness and Worship: Joshua's response—falling facedown and removing his sandals—indicates recognition of the sacredness of the moment. The commander's presence sanctifies the ground, emphasizing the holiness of God and the reverence due to Him.

3. Neutrality and Sovereignty: The commander's response, "Neither," to Joshua's question about allegiance highlights God's sovereignty. The LORD's purposes transcend human conflicts and alignments, focusing instead on His divine plan and glory.

4. Pre-Incarnate Christ: Many conservative theologians and scholars interpret the Commander of the LORD's Army as a Christophany, an appearance of the pre-incarnate Christ. This interpretation is supported by the commander's acceptance of worship, which is reserved for God alone, and the holiness of His presence.

Role in the Conquest of Canaan

The encounter with the Commander of the LORD's Army sets the stage for the miraculous victory at Jericho, where the walls fall after the Israelites follow God's unconventional battle plan (Joshua 6). This event reinforces the theme that success in the conquest of Canaan depends not on military might but on obedience to God's commands and reliance on His power.

Conclusion

The figure of the Commander of the LORD's Army serves as a powerful reminder of God's active involvement in the history of His people. It calls believers to recognize the holiness of God, submit to His authority, and trust in His sovereign plans. The encounter with Joshua remains a profound testament to the divine presence that leads and fights for those who are faithful to the LORD.