The event of the priests coming up from the Jordan River is a significant moment in the biblical narrative, marking the completion of Israel's crossing into the Promised Land. This event is recorded in the Book of Joshua, specifically in Joshua 4:10-18. It serves as a powerful testament to God's faithfulness and the fulfillment of His promises to the Israelites.

Biblical Context

The crossing of the Jordan River occurs as the Israelites, under the leadership of Joshua, prepare to enter Canaan, the land promised to them by God. This event follows the death of Moses and represents a new chapter in the history of Israel. The crossing is not merely a physical transition but a spiritual and covenantal milestone, symbolizing the beginning of the conquest of the Promised Land.

Role of the Priests

The priests play a crucial role in this event. They are tasked with carrying the Ark of the Covenant, which represents the presence of God among His people. According to Joshua 3:13, "And as soon as the priests carrying the ark of the LORD—the Lord of all the earth—set foot in the Jordan, its waters will be cut off and stand up in a heap." The priests' obedience and faith are instrumental in the miraculous stopping of the Jordan's waters, allowing the entire nation to cross on dry ground.

The Crossing and the Memorial Stones

As the priests stand in the middle of the Jordan, the waters are held back, and the Israelites pass over. Once the people have crossed, God commands Joshua to select twelve men, one from each tribe, to take stones from the riverbed where the priests stood. These stones are to serve as a memorial for future generations, as stated in Joshua 4:6-7: "In the future, when your children ask, ‘What do these stones mean to you?’ 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."

The Priests' Ascent from the Jordan

Once the memorial stones are set up at Gilgal, Joshua commands the priests to come up from the Jordan. Joshua 4:18 records this moment: "When the priests carrying the ark of the covenant of the LORD came up from the middle of the Jordan, and the soles of their feet touched the dry ground, the waters of the Jordan returned to their place and ran at flood stage as before." This return of the waters signifies the completion of the crossing and the restoration of the natural order, underscoring the miraculous nature of the event.

Theological Significance

The event of the priests coming up from the Jordan is rich in theological significance. It highlights God's sovereignty and His ability to control the natural world to fulfill His purposes. The presence of the Ark, borne by the priests, emphasizes the centrality of God's presence and guidance in the life of Israel. The crossing of the Jordan is a reminder of God's past deliverance, akin to the crossing of the Red Sea, and a foreshadowing of future victories in the conquest of Canaan.

Furthermore, the memorial stones serve as a tangible reminder of God's faithfulness and the importance of teaching future generations about His mighty acts. This event calls believers to remember and recount God's works, fostering a legacy of faith and obedience.

Conclusion

The priests' ascent from the Jordan is a pivotal moment in the biblical narrative, encapsulating themes of faith, obedience, and divine intervention. It stands as a testament to God's unwavering commitment to His promises and His people.