Joshua 5:14 – “Neither,” he replied, “but as commander of the army of the Lord I have now come.” Then Joshua fell facedown to the ground in reverence, and asked him, “What message does my Lord have for his servant?”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
Joshua 5:14 captures a profound moment where Joshua meets the Commander of the Lord’s army. When Joshua asks if the figure is on his side or the enemy’s, the response is striking: “Neither.” The Commander identifies himself not as an ally of either side but as the leader of God’s forces. This response shifts the focus from human conflicts to God’s divine authority and presence. Joshua’s immediate reaction—to fall facedown in reverence—shows his recognition that this is a holy encounter. Rather than seeking to align God with his own plans, Joshua submits himself to God’s leadership, asking for guidance.
Historical Context
This encounter occurs just before the battle of Jericho, a pivotal point as the Israelites begin their conquest of the Promised Land. The Israelites had crossed the Jordan River and were camped near Jericho, preparing for their first major challenge. This meeting with the Commander of the Lord’s army is a divine reminder to Joshua that the battle belongs to God, not to man. Jericho was a heavily fortified city, and from a human perspective, it seemed impossible to conquer. God’s appearance at this moment was not just about providing encouragement; it was about showing Joshua that God’s plans and power were the keys to victory.
Theological Implications
The theological message of this verse is clear: God is not bound by human sides or agendas; He is sovereign over all. The Commander’s response, “Neither,” emphasizes that God does not merely join our causes—He commands His own. This encounter teaches that victory comes from aligning ourselves with God’s will rather than trying to fit God into our plans. It also highlights the importance of submission to God’s authority and recognizing His leadership in every area of life. Joshua’s posture of worship and his request for guidance demonstrate the proper response to God’s presence: humility, reverence, and a readiness to listen.
Literary Analysis
The verse uses dialogue to create a dramatic and revealing moment. The Commander’s reply to Joshua, “Neither,” disrupts expectations, emphasizing that God’s agenda is separate from human conflicts. Joshua’s physical response—falling facedown—visually conveys his recognition of the Commander’s authority and holiness. The narrative moves quickly from confrontation to worship, underscoring the immediate impact of God’s presence. This shift highlights the idea that encountering God calls for a response of reverence and obedience, not just questions of alignment or support.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Exodus 3:5: God tells Moses to take off his sandals because he is standing on holy ground, a parallel to Joshua’s reverence in the presence of God.
- 2 Chronicles 20:15: “The battle is not yours, but God’s,” a reminder that God leads and fights for His people, much like the message given to Joshua.
- Psalm 24:8-10: A description of God as the King of glory, strong and mighty in battle, reflecting the divine authority seen in the Commander of the Lord’s army.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Joshua 5:14 serves as a reminder that God is not just on our side; He is the ultimate authority over all things. It challenges us to examine whether we are aligning our lives with God’s purposes or merely asking Him to endorse our plans. This verse teaches that true victory and guidance come when we submit ourselves to God’s leadership and seek His direction in our lives. It calls us to a posture of humility and worship, recognizing that God’s ways are higher than our own and that He leads us in the battles we face.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse shows God’s love in His willingness to lead and fight on behalf of His people. God didn’t just send Joshua into battle alone; He came Himself to guide, protect, and assure His people of His presence. God’s love is evident in His desire to be actively involved in the lives of His people, providing direction and strength in the face of challenges. This encounter reminds us that God’s love is not passive—it’s powerful, protective, and purposeful.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Joshua 5:14 connects to Jesus Christ, who is often seen as the ultimate fulfillment of the Commander of the Lord’s army. In Revelation 19:11-16, Jesus is depicted as the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, leading the heavenly armies with power and authority. Just as the Commander came to lead Joshua, Christ comes to lead and guide us. Jesus is not just a supporter of our plans; He is the Lord who commands, directs, and calls us to follow Him in all things. Through Christ, we are reminded that we are not fighting our battles alone; He is with us, leading the way to victory.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How can you better align your life with God’s plans rather than trying to fit God into your own?
- What does Joshua’s response to the Commander teach you about the proper way to approach God’s presence?
- How does recognizing God as the ultimate authority affect the way you face challenges in your life?
- In what ways have you experienced God’s guidance and leadership during difficult times?
- How does seeing Jesus as the Commander who leads us impact your understanding of His role in your life and your response to His authority?