Joshua 4:1-24

4:1-24 | This chapter presents the dynamic truth that the hope of the future is based on the memories of the past, and this hope gives meaning to the present.

4:8 | The repetition of details is a standard Hebrew literary technique intended to emphasize that the people obeyed God’s instructions exactly. It also underscores the importance of following God’s instructions to the letter.

4:9 | At first glance, this verse seems to say that Joshua built his own memorial in the midst of the Jordan in addition to the memorial set up on the bank. However, the Hebrew grammar indicates that the author has stopped the action to provide some background information. Thus, this verse simply describes the source of the same stones referred to in verse 8, not their final resting place. It is highly doubtful that nay stones placed in the middle of the Jordan as a memorial would be visible year after year, because the annual floodwaters would scatter them.

4:14 | The crossing of the Jordan River solidified Joshua as the nation’s leader. Because God exalted him, the people feared him (held him in highest regard), understanding that God was with Joshua just as He had been with Moses. This fulfilled God’s promise in 3:7.

4:19 | The timing of the Jordan River crossing coincided with the day the Israelites selected the Passover Lamb (Ex. 12:3,6,18), enabling them to celebrate the Passover as their first act in the Promised Land (5:10). Perhaps Israel camped at the Jordan for three days before crossing it in order to achieve this timing.

4:20-24 | In repeating the story of God’s deliverance tot heir children, the Israelites would bear witness of God’s mighty power to the world and uphold the fear of the LORD forever (Ex. 14:31; 15:16; 1 Kgs. 8:42-43; 2 Kgs. 19:19; Ps. 106:8).