Matthew Henry’s Modern English CommentaryJoshua 4

Joshua 4:1 – The Passage over the Jordan This section describes how, after the Israelites finished crossing the Jordan River, God gave special instructions to make sure the memory of this miracle would never be forgotten. Even though Joshua and the people were very busy and likely worried about moving their families and all their things into enemy territory, they still needed to take time to honor God. God wanted them to set up a memorial so future generations would always remember how He helped Israel cross the Jordan on dry ground.v. 1: God spoke to Joshua when all the people had safely crossed the river. No one was left behind, showing that God’s plan was complete and perfect. It’s possible that Joshua took time alone to thank God for this great miracle, and then God gave him these new instructions. This shows that we should never forget to thank God, even when we are busy or facing big challenges ( ).

v. 2, 4: God told Joshua to choose one man from each tribe to help with the memorial. This way, every tribe would be involved and could tell their own people about the miracle. The two and a half tribes who already had land also took part, showing that everyone must help share God’s mighty acts ( ).

v. 3, 5: The chosen men were to take stones from the middle of the river, right where the priests stood with the ark. These stones would be a natural reminder of what God did. God wanted the memorial to be simple but meaningful, not fancy or decorated. The men were allowed to come close to the ark for this special service ( ).

v. 6-7: The stones were meant to be a sign and a memorial for future generations. When children asked about the stones, parents could explain that God had stopped the Jordan River for Israel to cross into the promised land. This was a way to make sure everyone remembered God’s power and goodness (; ; ).

v. 8: The twelve men each took a stone out of the river as God commanded. They carried the stones to their camp for the night. These men acted as representatives for their tribes, so it was as if all Israel was involved. This act of remembrance points to how, after Jesus (our Joshua) overcame death, He sent out twelve apostles to share the good news everywhere.

v. 9: Joshua also set up another pile of twelve stones in the middle of the Jordan, where the priests had stood. This second monument was probably larger and could be seen when the water was low or clear. It showed the exact spot where God performed the miracle and served as a double reminder of God’s faithfulness.

Joshua 4:10 – The People Complete the Crossing This section carefully describes how Joshua and the Israelites followed God’s instructions exactly as they finished crossing the Jordan River. The writer emphasizes how Joshua did nothing except what God commanded, remembering both the guidance of Moses and the direct instructions from the Lord

v. 12-13: The men from the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh led the way as they had promised earlier (; ). Joshua had recently reminded them of this promise ( ). These tribes were ready for battle and did not have to worry about their families, so they went first. Their courage was an encouragement to the rest of Israel.

v. 14: On this day, God made Joshua great in the eyes of all Israel ( ). God spoke directly to Joshua and gave him authority over the people and priests. The people respected Joshua just as they had respected Moses ( ). When people serve God faithfully, He will honor them in front of others.

v. 15-17: The priests with the ark stayed in the river until God told Joshua to command them to come out ( ). The priests did not move on their own but waited for Joshua’s word, and Joshua waited for God’s word. This shows how everyone listened to God’s instructions and trusted His timing, even in difficult situations.

v. 18: As soon as the priests carrying the ark came out of the Jordan, the water returned to its normal flow and filled the riverbed again ( ). This proved that the miracle was only because of God’s power and presence. When God’s purpose was complete, nature returned to normal.

v. 19: The Israelites crossed the Jordan on the tenth day of the first month ( ). This was almost exactly forty years after they left Egypt. God brought them into Canaan five days before the end of that period, showing His kindness and mercy. They entered just in time to celebrate the Passover, which reminded them of how God had saved them from Egypt (; ).

Joshua 4:20 – The Memorial Stones at Gilgal This passage describes how the Israelites set up the twelve stones they had taken from the Jordan River at Gilgal. These stones were arranged carefully, either in a row or stacked, so that each one could be counted. They were not just a pile, but a special memorial called “these stones.” The purpose of the stones was to remind future generations of the miracle God had done for Israel.

v. 21: It is assumed that children in the future would see the stones and ask their parents what they meant. This shows that it is good for young people to be curious and ask questions to learn wisdom. Jesus also encouraged children to ask questions and learn ( ). When John the Baptist was at the Jordan, he may have pointed to these very stones and reminded the people of God’s power ( ). Even if children forget to ask, God’s great works will still be remembered, because “the stones would immediately cry out” ( ).

v. 22: Parents were given instructions to explain the meaning of the stones to their children ( ). They were to teach what they had learned from God’s word and from their own parents. This reminds us that it is a parent’s duty to teach their children about God and His mighty works.

v. 23: Parents would tell their children that the Lord

v. 24: The story of the stones was meant to teach everyone about God’s power and encourage people to respect and serve Him ( ). All nations would see that the hand of the Lord