Overview:

In Joshua 5, Israel stands on the edge of a new beginning as they prepare to conquer Jericho and enter the Promised Land. This chapter highlights Israel’s spiritual preparation through circumcision and the observance of the Passover. God reaffirms His covenant with Israel by renewing the practice of circumcision, which had ceased during their wilderness journey. After observing the Passover, the manna that had sustained them in the wilderness ceases, and they begin to eat the produce of Canaan. The chapter concludes with Joshua encountering the commander of the Lord’s army, a divine figure who emphasizes that the coming battles are under God’s sovereign direction.

Key themes include the importance of covenant renewal, consecration, trust in God’s provision, and recognizing God’s sovereignty in all things.

Historical and Literary Context:

Joshua 5 marks Israel’s transition from the wilderness to the Promised Land. This chapter is pivotal in Israel’s history as it underscores the importance of covenant faithfulness before entering Canaan. The reinstitution of circumcision and the celebration of the Passover reflect Israel’s need for spiritual readiness, obedience, and remembrance of God’s deliverance. The chapter’s climax, Joshua’s encounter with the commander of the Lord’s army, shifts the focus from Israel’s actions to God’s sovereignty and leadership in the conquest of Canaan.

Key Themes and Doctrinal Points:

Covenant Renewal and Spiritual Preparation:

The renewal of circumcision signifies Israel’s recommitment to God’s covenant. As the mark of the covenant with Abraham, circumcision represents Israel’s identity as God’s chosen people and their dedication to holiness.

For Christians, this theme underscores the importance of renewing one’s commitment to God and prioritizing spiritual readiness. Romans 2:29 speaks of a “circumcision of the heart,” reminding believers that spiritual renewal is essential for maintaining a strong relationship with God.

Trust in God’s Provision:

As Israel observes the Passover, God stops the provision of manna, and they begin to eat the produce of the Promised Land. This transition reflects God’s continued provision in a new form, calling Israel to trust in His faithfulness as they settle in Canaan.

For Christians, this shift emphasizes the need to trust in God’s provision, even when circumstances change. Philippians 4:19 assures believers that “God will meet all [their] needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus,” encouraging them to rely on God’s faithfulness in every season.

God’s Sovereignty and Lordship:

Joshua’s encounter with the commander of the Lord’s army reveals God’s sovereignty in the conquest of Canaan. The divine figure’s command to remove Joshua’s sandals on holy ground emphasizes that the coming battles belong to the Lord.

For Christians, this passage reinforces the reality that God is the ultimate authority in all things. Revelation 19:16 describes Jesus as “King of kings and Lord of lords,” reminding believers that God’s purposes will prevail, and they are called to submit to His will.

Verse-by-Verse Analysis:

Joshua 5:1:

“Now when all the Amorite kings west of the Jordan and all the Canaanite kings along the coast heard how the Lord had dried up the Jordan before the Israelites until they had crossed over, their hearts melted in fear and they no longer had the courage to face the Israelites.”

The miraculous crossing of the Jordan instills fear in Israel’s enemies, demonstrating God’s power and preparing the way for Israel’s conquest. This moment emphasizes the impact of God’s works on surrounding nations, affirming Israel’s role as God’s chosen people.

For Christians, this verse highlights the power of God’s works as a testimony to His sovereignty. Psalm 46:10 calls believers to “be still and know that [He] is God,” reminding them that God’s presence has the power to transform and influence those around them.

Joshua 5:2-3:

“At that time the Lord said to Joshua, ‘Make flint knives and circumcise the Israelites again.’ So Joshua made flint knives and circumcised the Israelites at Gibeath Haaraloth.”

God commands Joshua to circumcise the Israelite men, renewing the covenant sign first given to Abraham. This act of obedience marks the people’s readiness to enter the Promised Land as God’s consecrated people, reaffirming their identity and dedication to Him.

For Christians, this passage reflects the importance of commitment and spiritual renewal. Colossians 2:11-12 speaks of spiritual circumcision, calling believers to put off the old self and renew their dedication to God as they walk in faith.

Joshua 5:4-5:

“Now this is why he did so: All those who came out of Egypt—all the men of military age—died in the wilderness on the way after leaving Egypt. All the people that came out had been circumcised, but all the people born in the wilderness during the journey from Egypt had not.”

The renewal of circumcision addresses a gap in Israel’s covenantal practices due to their time in the wilderness. God’s command to renew this practice underscores the importance of obedience and identity for Israel as His chosen people.

For Christians, this passage emphasizes the importance of continuity in faith practices. Hebrews 10:23 encourages believers to “hold unswervingly to the hope we profess,” reminding them to remain faithful to God’s covenant and teachings.

Joshua 5:8-9:

“And after the whole nation had been circumcised, they remained where they were in camp until they were healed. Then the Lord said to Joshua, ‘Today I have rolled away the reproach of Egypt from you.’ So the place has been called Gilgal to this day.”

After the circumcision, God declares that He has “rolled away the reproach of Egypt,” signifying the removal of the shame of their past slavery. The name Gilgal, meaning “rolling,” marks this location as a place of renewed identity and freedom in God’s covenant.

For Christians, this passage reminds them of the freedom and new identity they have in Christ. Romans 8:1 proclaims, “There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus,” assuring believers that their past is forgiven and they are set free in God’s grace.

Joshua 5:10-11:

“On the evening of the fourteenth day of the month, while camped at Gilgal on the plains of Jericho, the Israelites celebrated the Passover. The day after the Passover, that very day, they ate some of the produce of the land: unleavened bread and roasted grain.”

Israel celebrates the Passover, remembering God’s deliverance from Egypt. This Passover marks a new beginning as they partake in the produce of Canaan, symbolizing the end of the wilderness and the start of God’s promises in the Promised Land.

For Christians, the Passover serves as a reminder of Christ, the ultimate Passover Lamb. 1 Corinthians 5:7 encourages believers to “keep the festival,” reflecting on Jesus’ sacrifice and remembering the deliverance found through His blood.

Joshua 5:12:

“The manna stopped the day after they ate this food from the land; there was no longer any manna for the Israelites, but that year they ate the produce of Canaan.”

God’s provision shifts from manna to the produce of Canaan, symbolizing Israel’s transition into the land of promise. The cessation of manna reflects God’s ongoing provision, demonstrating that He meets His people’s needs in every season.

For Christians, this transition emphasizes the need to trust God’s provision, even when it comes in new forms. Philippians 4:19 assures believers that God will meet all their needs, reminding them to rely on His faithfulness in changing circumstances.

Joshua 5:13-15:

“Now when Joshua was near Jericho, he looked up and saw a man standing in front of him with a drawn sword in his hand. Joshua went up to him and asked, ‘Are you for us or for our enemies?’ ‘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?’ The commander of the Lord’s army replied, ‘Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy.’ And Joshua did so.”

Joshua’s encounter with the commander of the Lord’s army reveals that the coming battles belong to God, who is the true leader of Israel’s conquest. The divine figure’s instruction to remove Joshua’s sandals signifies the holy ground, echoing God’s encounter with Moses at the burning bush. This encounter emphasizes God’s sovereignty and the sacredness of His presence.

For Christians, this passage serves as a reminder that God is the ultimate authority in all battles. Ephesians 6:12 teaches that “our struggle is not against flesh and blood,” calling believers to trust in God’s spiritual leadership and to rely on His strength in every challenge.

Theological Implications and Connection to Jesus Christ:

Joshua 5 emphasizes themes of covenant, consecration, and God’s sovereignty, all of which are fulfilled in Jesus Christ. The renewal of circumcision symbolizes the covenant, pointing to the New Covenant through Christ’s sacrifice. In Jesus, believers experience a spiritual circumcision of the heart, marking them as God’s people through faith (Colossians 2:11-12).

The Passover celebration foreshadows Jesus as the true Passover Lamb. Just as Israel remembered God’s deliverance from Egypt, believers commemorate Jesus’ sacrifice, which brings deliverance from sin. Through Jesus’ blood, believers are freed from condemnation and experience new life in God’s promise (1 Corinthians 5:7).

The encounter with the commander of the Lord’s army reflects Jesus’ role as the divine leader and conqueror. In Revelation 19, Jesus is portrayed as the ultimate warrior, leading God’s people in victory. Joshua’s recognition of holy ground points to the reverence believers are to show in God’s presence, acknowledging Jesus as their sovereign Lord.

Sermon Outline and Flow:

Title: “Renewal, Provision, and God’s Sovereignty: Preparing for the Promised Land”

1. Introduction
   • Introduce the themes of covenant renewal, provision, and God’s sovereignty as Israel prepares to enter the Promised Land.
   • Emphasize the importance of spiritual readiness and trust in God’s provision.
2. Covenant Renewal and Spiritual Preparation (Joshua 5:2-9)
   • Discuss the significance of circumcision as a covenant sign, emphasizing the importance of renewal and consecration.
   • Apply this to the Christian life, where believers are called to spiritual renewal and commitment to God (Romans 2:29).
3. Trust in God’s Provision (Joshua 5:10-12)
   • Examine the transition from manna to the produce of Canaan, highlighting the need to trust in God’s faithfulness and provision.
   • Apply this to the Christian life, where believers rely on God’s provision, even in changing circumstances (Philippians 4:19).
4. God’s Sovereignty and Lordship (Joshua 5:13-15)
   • Highlight Joshua’s encounter with the commander of the Lord’s army, emphasizing God’s ultimate authority in Israel’s conquest.
   • Apply this to the Christian life, where believers are called to recognize and submit to God’s sovereignty in all things (Ephesians 6:12).
5. Conclusion
   • Reaffirm the call to renew one’s commitment to God, trust in His provision, and acknowledge His sovereignty, knowing that God’s purposes will prevail.

Illustrations and Examples:

• Personal Story: Share an example of someone who found strength in renewing their commitment to God, illustrating the power of spiritual renewal.
• Global Example: Many cultures honor rites of passage and consecration. Relate this to the importance of spiritual preparation and dedication to God.

Application for Today’s Christian:

Joshua 5 calls today’s believers to:

• Renew Their Commitment to God: Just as Israel renewed their covenant, believers are encouraged to seek spiritual renewal, committing their hearts to God.
• Trust in God’s Provision in Every Season: The cessation of manna and the start of Canaan’s produce underscore God’s provision. Believers are called to trust in His faithfulness, even as circumstances change.
• Recognize God’s Sovereignty: The encounter with the commander of the Lord’s army highlights God’s authority. Believers are encouraged to submit to God’s will, acknowledging that He is the ultimate leader.

Connection to the Father in Joshua 5:

God the Father’s faithfulness and care for Israel are evident in His instructions for covenant renewal and His provision of the produce of Canaan. His sovereignty over the coming battles and His call for consecration reflect His holiness and love for His people. Just as God provided for Israel, He provides for His children today, guiding them as a loving Father.

Connection to Jesus Christ in Joshua 5:

Joshua 5 foreshadows Jesus’ role as the leader of God’s people. The Passover celebration points to Jesus as the Passover Lamb, whose sacrifice brings salvation and freedom from sin. The encounter with the commander of the Lord’s army prefigures Jesus as the ultimate warrior, leading believers in spiritual victory. Through Christ, believers experience covenant renewal and the assurance of His presence.

Connection to the Holy Spirit in Joshua 5:

The Holy Spirit empowers believers to live in obedience and consecration, guiding them as they renew their commitment to God. Just as the Israelites prepared to enter the Promised Land, the Spirit prepares believers to walk in God’s promises. The Spirit provides strength and courage, enabling believers to trust in God’s provision and sovereignty.

Connection to God’s Love in Joshua 5:

God’s love is demonstrated in His provision for Israel and His desire for them to renew their covenant. His guidance through circumcision, Passover, and provision reveals His care for their spiritual and physical needs. Through Jesus, God’s love is revealed fully, inviting believers to trust in His promises and to follow Him wholeheartedly.

Reflection Questions:

1. How does Israel’s renewal of the covenant through circumcision inspire you to renew your commitment to God?
2. In what ways can you trust God’s provision, even when circumstances change?
3. How does the celebration of Passover connect with your understanding of Jesus as the Passover Lamb?
4. What areas of your life can you submit more fully to God’s sovereignty?
5. How does recognizing the holiness of God’s presence impact your worship and daily life?