Joshua 5: Covenant of Circumcision

Introduction: Joshua Chapter 5 is a remarkable testimony of the faithfulness of God towards His chosen people, Israel. It provides a profound insight into the divine wisdom and providence, revealing the significance of obedience, sanctification, and divine encounters. This chapter narrates the progression of Israelites into the promised land, their ritual circumcision, the cessation of manna, and Joshua’s encounter with the Commander of the Lord’s army. This theological outline seeks to delve deeper into the wisdom embedded in Joshua Chapter 5, exploring the various themes, connections, and spiritual implications it holds for believers today.

I. Joshua 5: 1-9: The Covenant of Circumcision.

The Israelites’ circumcision signifies their sanctification and their readiness to enter the promised land, marking the end of their wilderness experience (Exodus 12: 25-27). Here, God instructs Joshua to make flint knives for the circumcision of the Israelite males (Joshua 5:2). This physical act is a symbolic representation of their spiritual state, aligning with the Abrahamic Covenant (Genesis 17:10-14). The act reaffirms their covenant with God, prepares them for the forthcoming battles and symbolizes the casting away of their old, sinful nature (Colossians 2:11).

II. Joshua 5:10-12: The Passover Celebration and Cessation of Manna.

As the Israelites celebrate the Passover in the Promised Land (Joshua 5:10), it signifies the culmination of their journey from slavery to freedom. The Passover meal, a reminder of their deliverance from Egypt (Exodus 12:13-14), now takes a new meaning in the land of milk and honey. The cessation of manna (Joshua 5:12) indicates the end of their dependency on divine sustenance (Exodus 16:15) and the beginning of their physical and spiritual nourishment from the land God had promised them.

III. Joshua 5:13-15: Joshua’s Encounter with the Commander of the Lord’s Army.

In this section, Joshua encounters a divine figure identified as the Commander of the Lord’s army (Joshua 5:14). This encounter mirrors Moses’ experience with the burning bush (Exodus 3:5) where both leaders are instructed to remove their sandals in the presence of Holy Ground. This divine figure is likely a manifestation of Christ in the Old Testament, known as a Theophany, emphasizing His active involvement in the deliverance of His people (John 8:58).

Conclusion: The wisdom and spiritual depth of Joshua Chapter 5 reveals the power and faithfulness of God in leading His people to the promised land. It urges believers to be obedient to God’s commandments and to prepare themselves for spiritual battles. Just like the Israelites, believers today are called to sanctify themselves, to trust in God’s provision, and to be open to divine encounters. Through Joshua Chapter 5, we learn that our journey with God is a progression from slavery to freedom, from dependence to provision, and from earthly struggles to divine victories. As we walk in faith and obedience, we can rest in the assurance of His promises and celebrate His deliverance in our lives.