Introduction.
Joshua Chapter 5 marks a period of renewal and preparation for the Israelites as they settle in the Promised Land. This chapter details significant events, including the circumcision at Gilgal, the cessation of manna, and the encounter with the commander of the Lord’s army. In this blog post, we explore the key elements of Joshua Chapter 5 and the lessons they offer.
The circumcision at Gilgal.
After crossing the Jordan River, the Israelites camp at Gilgal. God instructs Joshua to circumcise the new generation of Israelites born during the wilderness journey. Joshua 5:2-3 describes:
“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.”
This act of circumcision was a renewal of the covenant between God and the Israelites, signifying their commitment to Him and their identity as His chosen people.
The ceasing of Manna.
Following the circumcision and the celebration of Passover, the manna that had sustained the Israelites during their desert wanderings ceases. Joshua 5:12 states:
“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.”
The cessation of manna marked a transition from dependence on divine provision to the fruits of the Promised Land, symbolizing a new beginning and God’s fulfillment of His promises.
Encounter with the commander of the Lord’s army.
Joshua’s encounter with a divine figure marks a significant moment in this chapter. Joshua 5:13-15 recounts:
“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.”
This encounter emphasizes the divine guidance and presence with Joshua and the Israelites, preparing them for the battles ahead.
Lessons from Joshua chapter 5.
- Renewal of commitment: The circumcision at Gilgal represents a renewal of the Israelites’ commitment to God. It underscores the importance of reaffirming our dedication to spiritual covenants and values.
- Transition and provision: The cessation of manna and the consumption of the land’s produce highlight the transitions in life and how God’s provision evolves. It teaches us to recognize and embrace new seasons of sustenance and growth.
- Divine encounter: Joshua’s encounter with the commander of the Lord’s army reassures us of God’s presence and guidance in our endeavors. It calls for reverence and readiness to follow divine instructions.
- Holiness and reverence: The command to remove sandals on holy ground emphasizes the need for reverence and acknowledgment of sacred moments and spaces in our spiritual journey.
Conclusion.
Joshua Chapter 5 is rich with themes of renewal, transition, and divine guidance. The events at Gilgal prepare the Israelites for the challenges ahead, reinforcing their identity and reliance on God. As we reflect on this chapter, let us be encouraged to renew our commitments, embrace transitions, and remain attuned to divine guidance in our lives.
