Joshua 4:20
And those twelve stones, which they took out of Jordan, did Joshua pitch in Gilgal.
Joshua 4:20 (KJV)
Context
The book of Joshua records Israel’s entry into the Promised Land under Joshua’s leadership after Moses’ death. This verse comes from the account of the Jordan River crossing, an event that mirrors the earlier crossing of the Red Sea. As the priests carrying the Ark of the Covenant stepped into the Jordan, the waters parted, and the whole nation passed over on dry ground.
God commanded Joshua to choose twelve men, one from each tribe, to take twelve stones from the middle of the riverbed (Joshua 4:3). Joshua then set those stones up in Gilgal, the first camp of Israel in the land. The Hebrew word translated “pitch” means to set up or raise, showing that this was a deliberate, visible act.
Meaning
The twelve stones formed a lasting memorial. They reminded Israel that God had dried up the Jordan so they could enter the land He promised. The number twelve clearly connects to the twelve tribes, showing that the whole nation shared this testimony.
The stones also had a teaching purpose. When children later asked what they meant, parents were to tell the story of God’s mighty work (Joshua 4:6-7). The memorial was not just for the generation that crossed; it was for all who would come after.
Biblical connections
Gilgal became a significant place in Israel’s history. It was the base for the conquest of Canaan and a place where the people renewed their commitment to God. The crossing of the Jordan also connects to the Red Sea crossing, showing that the same God who delivered Israel from Egypt brought them into the land He had sworn to give them.
Application
Believers today are called to remember and commemorate God’s faithfulness. We can create our own “stones of remembrance” by journaling answered prayers, celebrating spiritual milestones, or keeping tangible reminders of God’s goodness. Such practices keep the memory of His work alive in our hearts.
Gilgal was a spiritual foundation for Israel. Likewise, we need a firm base—regular fellowship, study of Scripture, prayer, and worship—to remain rooted in our relationship with God and to face life’s challenges with strength.
Pitching the stones was a deliberate act. It gave future generations a reason to ask questions and hear the story of God’s power. When we share testimonies of deliverance, provision, and answered prayer, we strengthen our own faith and encourage others, demonstrating God’s ongoing involvement in our lives.
Reflection
Joshua 4:20 teaches the importance of remembering and proclaiming God’s faithfulness. The twelve stones set up in Gilgal were a lasting witness to His power. This passage calls us to establish personal memorials, build a solid spiritual foundation, and boldly share what God has done, so that coming generations may know and trust Him.
