Joshua 4:20 – “And Joshua set up at Gilgal the twelve stones they had taken out of the Jordan.”

Extended Explanation of the Verse

Joshua 4:20 describes the moment when Joshua set up twelve stones at Gilgal, which had been taken from the middle of the Jordan River. These stones were collected by representatives from each of the twelve tribes of Israel as a direct command from God. The stones were set up as a memorial to remind the Israelites of God’s miraculous act in stopping the Jordan’s waters, allowing them to cross into the Promised Land. This simple but powerful act of setting up the stones served as a visual reminder of God’s faithfulness and power, standing as a testimony for future generations to remember how God had delivered His people.

Historical Context

The setting up of the stones at Gilgal occurred right after the Israelites crossed the Jordan River. This event was significant as it marked the end of forty years of wandering in the wilderness and the beginning of a new chapter in the Promised Land. Gilgal became the first campsite of the Israelites in Canaan, and it held great spiritual importance as a place of renewal and remembrance. The twelve stones were more than just a pile of rocks; they were a symbol of God’s faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. For the Israelites, who had seen God’s power demonstrated at the Red Sea and now at the Jordan River, these stones were a way to ensure that the memory of God’s mighty acts would not fade.

Theological Implications

Theologically, this verse highlights the importance of remembering and celebrating God’s work in our lives. The act of setting up the stones teaches us that it’s essential to create physical or symbolic reminders of God’s faithfulness. This helps keep the memory of His works alive, not only for ourselves but also for future generations. The stones were a way for the Israelites to pass down the story of God’s provision, showing that He is a God who acts on behalf of His people. It also emphasizes that remembering God’s past faithfulness strengthens our faith for present and future challenges.

Literary Analysis

Joshua 4:20 is straightforward but rich in meaning, emphasizing action and remembrance. The use of the phrase “set up” highlights the intentionality behind Joshua’s actions; this wasn’t just a random act but a purposeful setting of a memorial. The reference to the “twelve stones” repeatedly ties back to the twelve tribes of Israel, reinforcing the unity and shared heritage of the nation. The act of setting up the stones at Gilgal serves as a literary and physical marker of Israel’s transition from wandering to dwelling, from promise to fulfillment.

Biblical Cross-References

• Exodus 24:4: Moses sets up twelve pillars representing the twelve tribes of Israel at the base of Mount Sinai, another act of creating a memorial of God’s covenant.
• 1 Samuel 7:12: Samuel sets up a stone named Ebenezer, saying, “Thus far the Lord has helped us,” showing the ongoing practice of using stones to remember God’s help.
• Deuteronomy 6:12: A command to remember the Lord who brought Israel out of slavery, reminding believers not to forget God’s mighty acts.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For today’s Christians, Joshua 4:20 serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of remembering God’s works in our lives. Just as Joshua set up the stones at Gilgal, we are encouraged to establish our own “memorials” to remember how God has been faithful. This can be through journaling answered prayers, sharing testimonies, or even setting up symbolic reminders in our homes. These acts of remembrance help us keep our faith strong, especially during difficult times, by recalling what God has done. This verse challenges us to be intentional about not letting the stories of God’s faithfulness fade from our minds and hearts.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

This verse reflects God’s love by showing His desire for His people to remember His acts of deliverance and provision. By instructing the Israelites to set up a memorial, God was not only celebrating the moment but also ensuring that His love and power would be remembered for generations to come. This act of setting up stones at Gilgal was a loving way to keep the memory of God’s faithfulness alive in the hearts of His people. It shows that God cares deeply about our remembrance of His works because it helps us stay connected to His love and presence.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Joshua 4:20 connects to Jesus Christ in how it points to the importance of remembering God’s acts of salvation. Just as the stones were a memorial of God’s faithfulness, Jesus instituted the Lord’s Supper as a way to remember His sacrifice (Luke 22:19). The stones at Gilgal and the cross of Christ both serve as powerful reminders of God’s saving work. The memorial stones foreshadow the ultimate act of deliverance through Jesus’ death and resurrection, reminding us that God is faithful to save and desires that we never forget His acts of love.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. What “memorials” can you set up in your life to remember God’s faithfulness and provision?
2. How can you ensure that the stories of God’s work in your life are passed down to future generations?
3. In what ways does remembering God’s past actions help strengthen your faith for current challenges?
4. How can this verse inspire you to celebrate and reflect on the ways God has moved in your life?