Joshua 5
Main Highlights
This chapter details Israel's spiritual preparation for conquering the Promised Land. It recounts the mass circumcision at Gilgal, the celebration of Passover, the cessation of manna, and Joshua's encounter with the Commander of the Lord's army, marking a crucial transition from wilderness wanderings to a holy war under divine leadership.
Key Verses
"At that time the Lord said to Joshua, “Make flint knives and circumcise the sons of Israel a second time.”"— Joshua 5:2
"And the Lord said to Joshua, “Today I have rolled away the reproach of Egypt from you.” And so the name of that place is called Gilgal to this day."— Joshua 5:9
"And the Commander of the Lord’s army said to Joshua, “Take off your sandals from your feet, for the place where you are standing is holy.” And Joshua did so."— Joshua 5:15
Scholar Insight
"The appearance of the Captain of the Lord's host to Joshua is a significant Christophany, revealing that the true leader of God's people in battle is not Joshua, but the pre-incarnate Christ Himself. This encounter underscores that victory in spiritual warfare belongs to the Lord and is achieved by His divine presence and authority, not by human might or strategy alone." - R. C. Sproul, The Captain of the Host
Questions
What do we learn about God?
We learn about God's holiness and His faithfulness to His covenant promises. He demands consecration from His people and actively removes their past shame, demonstrating His ongoing care. "And the Lord said to Joshua, “Today I have rolled away the reproach of Egypt from you.”" - Joshua 5:9.
How is Christ Connected?
Jesus is powerfully foreshadowed in this chapter through the appearance of the "Commander of the army of the Lord." This figure, whom Joshua worships without rebuke, is widely understood as a Christophany, a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ, asserting divine authority and leadership over Israel's conquest. "And he said, “No; but I am the Commander of the army of the Lord. Now I have come.”" - Joshua 5:14.
What Theology concept is taught?
This chapter teaches us about covenant theology and sanctification, as Israel's circumcision at Gilgal renews their covenant relationship with God and marks them as set apart for His purposes. This act removes the "reproach of Egypt," signifying their spiritual cleansing and preparation for holy war under God's command. "Today I have rolled away the reproach of Egypt from you." - Joshua 5:9.
Do we see Law or Grace?
The chapter illustrates the interplay of law and grace; the command for circumcision represents the demands of God's covenant law, requiring obedience from His people. Yet, God's gracious act of removing their generational reproach and His active presence with them in battle demonstrates His unmerited favor. "At that time the Lord said to Joshua, “Make flint knives and circumcise the sons of Israel a second time.”" - Joshua 5:2.
Personal Application
People should respond with obedience and reverence to God's commands and His divine presence. Joshua's immediate obedience to circumcise the nation and his worshipful response to the Commander of the Lord's army serve as examples for us to consecrate ourselves and acknowledge God's supreme authority in all battles. "And Joshua did so." - Joshua 5:15.
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