“And the people came up out of Jordan on the tenth day of the first month, and encamped in Gilgal, in the east border of Jericho.”
Context:Joshua 4 records the account of the Israelites crossing the Jordan River on dry ground as they entered the Promised Land. This miraculous event took place after the death of Moses, and Joshua was now leading the people of Israel. In this verse, the Israelites have successfully crossed the Jordan River and have reached Gilgal, which was their first encampment in the Promised Land.
Significance of the Jordan River crossing:The crossing of the Jordan River held great significance for the Israelites. It symbolized the end of their wilderness wandering and the beginning of their possession of the land promised to them by God. It mirrored the crossing of the Red Sea during the Exodus from Egypt, emphasising God’s faithfulness and deliverance. The Jordan River crossing also marked the fulfilment of God’s promise to Joshua that He would be with him just as He was with Moses (Joshua 1:5).
Timing and location:According to the verse, the Israelites crossed the Jordan River on the tenth day of the first month. This detail highlights the precise fulfilment of God’s instructions. It is significant because it was on the tenth day of the first month that the Israelites were commanded to select a lamb for the Passover celebration (Exodus 12:3). The crossing of the Jordan River happened just before the observance of the Passover, connecting their entrance into the Promised Land with the commemoration of their deliverance from Egypt.
Encampment in Gilgal:After crossing the Jordan, the Israelites set up camp in Gilgal. Gilgal was situated on the east border of Jericho. This location was strategic as it allowed them to prepare for the conquest of the land, with Jericho being the first major city they were to conquer. Gilgal became an important base for the Israelites throughout their conquest of Canaan.
Symbolism and spiritual lessons:
- Obedience and Trust:The Israelites’ obedience and trust in God’s instructions were crucial for the crossing of the Jordan River. They had to step into the waters by faith before God parted the waters. This event reminds us of the importance of obedience and trust in following God’s guidance in our lives.
- New Beginnings:The crossing of the Jordan River marked a new beginning for the Israelites. It was a transition from the wilderness to the Promised Land, from wandering to possession. Similarly, in our spiritual lives, crossing the Jordan River can represent our transition from a life of sin and aimlessness to a life of purpose and abundance in Christ.
- Remembrance:God instructed Joshua to have twelve stones taken from the Jordan River and set up as a memorial in Gilgal (Joshua 4:20-24). This was to serve as a reminder to future generations of God’s faithfulness and miraculous acts. It reminds us of the importance of remembering God’s faithfulness in our lives and sharing our testimonies with others.
- Preparation for Battle:Gilgal served as a place of preparation for the Israelites as they planned their conquest of Canaan. It highlights the importance of being spiritually prepared and equipped for the battles we face in life. We need to rely on God’s strength and guidance as we face challenges and fulfil our God-given purposes.
In conclusion, Joshua 4:19 records the Israelites’ arrival in Gilgal after miraculously crossing the Jordan River. This event holds great significance in the history of Israel as it marked their entry into the Promised Land. It teaches us lessons of obedience, trust, new beginnings, remembrance, and preparation for the battles we face in our own lives.
