Chapter Summary

The passing of Jordan.

Discussion Questions for Joshua, Chapter 3

1. What do we know about the Ark of the Convent, and why was it so important for the Israelites to remain so far away from it? What can we learn from their obedience and how can we apply it to our lives? Be specific in your response.
2. What did it mean to purify or consecrate oneself? Why was it important to do so? Does that same command still apply today? How do we apply the concept of purification to our lives?
3. What similarities and what differences are there between the parting of the Red Sea and the parting of the Jordan River?
4. What was the significance of choosing one representative of each tribe of Israel?
5. How do the priests in this account foreshadow Christ's role as the High Priest? Why is it important to understand Christ's priesthood? Use real life examples in your answer.
6. How do you think the Israelites felt when crossing the Jordan? Do you think they experienced fear, wonder, or something else and why? How do you think you would feel in that situation and why?
7. In verse 9, Joshua tells the Israelites that they will "know that the living God is among you..." (NIV). In Matthew 1:23, it speaks of Jesus, saying, "they will call him Immanuel (which means “God with us”)." (NIV) What are other instances in the Bible when we are directly assured of God's presence? What do they all have in common? How do they differ?
8. Is verse 10 a fulfillment of God's promise in Exodus 6:8 to deliver the Israelites to the land He promised to Abraham? Why or why not?
9. In Joshua 3, we see the obedience of the people to Joshua who took over when Moses died. How important is biblical obedience to our church leadership? Do you struggle to obey godly leadership? Why or why not?
10. This account takes place shortly after Joshua sends spies into Jericho to "look over the land" (NIV) where God used Rahab to help them. How does chapter 3 build on this account of God's sovereignty and His care for the Israelites?

Key Words/Phrase

Pass-over, v. 6.

Characters

God, Joshua, priests.

Strong Verse(s)

5, 17.