The Israelites Cross the Jordan (Joshua 3-4)

Introduction to Joshua

• Joshua was the leader of the Israelites, chosen by God to lead His people into the Promised Land.

Crossing the Jordan River

• The Jordan River was at flood stage, making it impossible to cross on foot.

• Joshua prepared the Israelites to cross the river, camping beside it for three days, following God's command.

God's Instructions

• God instructed Joshua to have the priests carry the Ark of the Covenant and lead the way.

• The priests were commanded to step into the rushing waters of the Jordan River.

• God promised that once the priests stepped into the water, the waters would stop flowing.

Miracle of the Jordan

• As the priests stepped into the river, the waters of the Jordan River miraculously stopped flowing.

• The priests stood on dry ground with the Ark of the Covenant as the Israelites crossed.

Gathering the Memorial Stones

• After crossing, God commanded Joshua to send twelve men, one from each tribe of Israel, to collect twelve stones from the riverbed.

• These stones were to serve as a memorial to remember how God brought His people through the Jordan River on dry ground.

Conclusion

• The stones were brought back to the camp and set up as a reminder for future generations about God's faithfulness and the miraculous crossing of the Jordan River.