Joshua 3:13 – And as soon as the priests who carry the ark of the Lord—the Lord of all the earth—set foot in the Jordan, its waters flowing downstream will be cut off and stand up in a heap.
Extended Explanation of the Verse
In this verse, Joshua explains the miracle that God is about to perform as the Israelites cross the Jordan River. The priests, carrying the ark of the covenant, are instructed to step into the river, and when they do, God promises to stop the waters, causing them to stand up like a wall. This miraculous event demonstrates God’s power over nature and confirms His presence among His people. The ark, representing God’s presence, goes before them into the river, showing that God Himself is making a way through what seems impossible. This act would not only allow the Israelites to cross on dry ground but also serve as a powerful reminder of God’s ability to overcome any barrier.
Historical Context
The Israelites were on the brink of entering the Promised Land, but the Jordan River, swollen and overflowing due to the harvest season, stood in their way. This moment mirrored the crossing of the Red Sea when Moses led the people out of Egypt, where God also parted the waters. The priests carrying the ark stepping into the river symbolized an act of faith and obedience, trusting that God would fulfill His promise to stop the waters. This event was significant as it marked the beginning of the conquest of Canaan, reinforcing that God was with Joshua just as He had been with Moses.
Theological Implications
Theologically, this verse highlights God’s supreme authority over all creation. The phrase “the Lord of all the earth” emphasizes that God’s power is not confined to any one place but extends over everything, including the forces of nature. This verse teaches that God’s presence is what makes the impossible possible. It also shows that faith often requires stepping out into uncertainty—like the priests stepping into the flooded river—trusting that God will act. It’s a reminder that God’s promises are reliable, and His power is greater than any obstacle.
Literary Analysis
The verse uses vivid imagery to describe the miracle that is about to take place. The language emphasizes action: the priests “set foot” in the Jordan, and immediately the waters are cut off. The phrase “stand up in a heap” paints a dramatic picture of the water piling up, defying natural laws. This descriptive style creates a sense of awe and anticipation, highlighting the direct link between human obedience and divine intervention. The title “the Lord of all the earth” serves to elevate the narrative, reminding the reader of God’s ultimate authority.
Biblical Cross-References
- Exodus 14:21-22: The parting of the Red Sea, where God made a path through the waters for the Israelites to escape from Egypt, mirrors the crossing of the Jordan.
- Psalm 66:6: “He turned the sea into dry land; they passed through the waters on foot.” This psalm celebrates God’s power over the waters, reflecting on both the Red Sea and Jordan crossings.
- Isaiah 43:16: “This is what the Lord says—he who made a way through the sea, a path through the mighty waters.” This verse reinforces God’s reputation as the One who makes a way when there seems to be none.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christians, Joshua 3:13 serves as a powerful reminder that God can make a way through any obstacle. Just as God stopped the Jordan’s waters, He can intervene in our lives in ways that defy natural explanation. This verse encourages believers to step out in faith, even when the path ahead seems blocked or uncertain, trusting that God’s presence goes before them. It teaches that God’s power is not limited by circumstances and that He is always working to fulfill His promises.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s loving nature in that He actively goes before His people, clearing the way and removing barriers. God’s willingness to part the waters of the Jordan shows His care and commitment to leading His people safely into their promised future. His love is demonstrated through His involvement in the details of their journey, ensuring that they can move forward without fear. This act of divine intervention is a clear expression of God’s desire to guide, protect, and provide for His people in tangible ways.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Joshua 3:13 connects to Jesus Christ, who also demonstrated authority over nature, such as when He calmed the storm in Matthew 8:26-27 and walked on water in Matthew 14:25. Just as the ark went ahead of the Israelites into the Jordan, Jesus goes before His followers, leading them through life’s challenges. Jesus is the ultimate way-maker, clearing the path to salvation through His death and resurrection. In John 14:6, Jesus says, “I am the way and the truth and the life,” affirming that He is the one who leads us through every obstacle and into eternal life.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What “Jordan Rivers” are you facing in your life that seem impossible to cross?
- How can you step out in faith, trusting that God will make a way for you?
- In what ways have you seen God’s presence go before you in difficult situations?
- How does knowing Jesus as the ultimate way-maker encourage you in your walk with God?