Commentary on Joshua 5:10

Text of Joshua 5:10 (ESV): "While the people of Israel were encamped at Gilgal, they kept the Passover on the fourteenth day of the month in the evening on the plains of Jericho."

Contextual Background

The fifth chapter of Joshua marks a pivotal moment in the history of Israel as they transition from wanderers in the wilderness to conquerors in the Promised Land. The significance of the events at Gilgal demonstrates their preparation to receive God’s blessings and the establishment of their identity as His covenant people. The observance of the Passover serves not only as a remembrance of God’s deliverance from Egypt but also as a reaffirmation of His covenant promises as they embark on a new chapter.

Significance of the Passover

The observance of the Passover is central to Joshua 5:10 and is rich in theological implications:

• Remembrance of Deliverance: Matthew Henry notes that the Passover is a reminder of God's mercy, as it commemorates the Israelites' liberation from slavery in Egypt. This remembrance is foundational, as it reminds the community of their identity as God's chosen people.
• Covenantal Identity: Adam Clarke emphasizes the importance of covenant in this event. The Israelites, by observing the Passover, are renewing their commitment to God and acknowledging His promises as they take possession of the land.
• A New Beginning: Albert Barnes points out that celebrating Passover at Gilgal represents a transition—a new beginning for Israel as they enter the Promised Land. It symbolizes their transformed status and renewed relationship with God.

Geographical and Historical Context

The location of Gilgal is significant in this passage. Situated on the plains of Jericho, Gilgal emerges as an altar and point of reference for the Israelites. It serves as both a spiritual and strategic base as they prepare to conquer Jericho. This geographical setting underlines the importance of worship and obedience to God:

• Strategic Base: Gilgal functions as a military site where the Israelites regroup before engaging in battle, highlighting the interplay between faith and action in advancing God's purposes.
• Spiritual Renewal: The act of keeping the Passover at Gilgal indicates a spiritual revival among the Israelites, setting a precedent that spiritual readiness precedes physical conquest. As Clarke suggests, the observance brings them back to their roots.

The Timing of the Passover

Significantly noted in the passage is the specific timing of the Passover observance, which is on the evening of the fourteenth day of the month. This timing is crucial for several reasons:

• Obedience to the Law: The Israelites’ adherence to the prescribed time, as set out in the Law of Moses, demonstrates their commitment to God's commandments. As noted by Barnes, this obedience serves as a testament to their faithfulness.
• Fulfillment of Tradition: This observance is a continuation of tradition from their ancestors and reflects the continuity of God’s faithfulness from generation to generation as highlighted by Henry.
• Preparation for Conquest: By celebrating Passover before entering into battle, the Israelites acknowledge their dependence on God. Clarke emphasizes that true strength comes not from military might but from obedience and remembrance.

Theological Reflections

Joshua 5:10 invites profound theological reflection:

• Grace and Covenant: The passage illustrates how God’s grace is the foundation of Israel’s relationship with Him. Their ability to observe the Passover is a testament to God’s ongoing covenantal promises, as pointed out by Henry.
• Spiritual Warfare: This verse highlights an important principle in spiritual warfare: before engaging with challenges, one must acknowledge God’s sovereignty through sacraments and covenant signs. Barnes emphasizes that the Israelites are spiritually armed through their reverence.
• Community Worship: The collective aspect of celebrating the Passover with the entire Israelite community reflects the importance of communal worship in the life of God’s people. Their unity in remembrance strengthens their resolve as they face impending challenges.

Application for Today’s Believers

The lessons drawn from Joshua 5:10 hold significant implications for contemporary believers:

• The Importance of Remembrance: Just as the Israelites remembered God’s past faithfulness, modern believers are called to remember Christ’s sacrifice and the deliverance found in Him. This can be done through communion and individual reflection.
• Covenant Community: The observance of communal feasts emphasizes the need for believers to engage in community. As the church continues to navigate challenges, physical and spiritual unity is essential.
• Preparation for Action: Like the Israelites who prepared spiritually before engaging in battle, believers today should prioritize spiritual readiness through worship and obedience before taking action in their lives.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Joshua 5:10 serves as a profound reminder of the significance of communal worship, remembrance, and obedience in the life of faith. It challenges modern believers to engage deeply in their spiritual lives and the life of the church, honoring God’s covenant through remembrance, obedience, and preparation. The observance of Passover represents a profound act of faith that transitions Israel into a future filled with God’s promises—a message that resonates across time for all who seek to walk in the footsteps of the faithful.