Epiphany · The Baptism of Our Lord
Joshua 3:1-3, 7-8, 13-17
Crossing the Jordan
January 11, 2026
Overview & Insights
“Today I will begin to exalt you… so they may know that I am with you as I was with Moses.” (Joshua 3:7)
Crossing Over the Jordan: The action of the story slows down in the crossing narrative (Josh. 3–4). Commands are repeated and events are described in laborious detail to indicate the importance of crossing the Jordan for the faith of Israel. The narrator also describes a liturgical drama that would be used for instruction of the young. The fords of the Jordan River and then Gilgal, the camp after Israel crossed the river, become the central locations for the narrative and the events to follow. The Israelite narrator’s point of view dominates the two chapters. Officers, Joshua, the Lord, and finally Joshua again give commands. Then the tribes cross the Jordan as a result of their obedience and God’s miracle.
From Sermons.com: Join Today to access the most scholarly & well written preaching resources anywhere.
Take it further
Commentary
Joshua 3:7-17 (Old Testament) Working Preacher
Weekly exegesis of this reading by a named seminary scholar.
Joshua 3 Commentary: Crossing the Jordan Enduring Word
Full chapter commentary on Israel's crossing, tied to baptismal typology.
Commentary on Joshua 3 by Matthew Henry Blue Letter Bible
Classic exposition of the priests bearing the ark into the Jordan.
Background & Word Study
Joshua 3 Commentary Precept Austin
Verse-by-verse notes on the crossing of the Jordan.
Joshua 3 Sefaria
Hebrew text of the crossing narrative read on the Baptism of Our Lord.
Joshua 3-5, The Crossing of the Jordan River Enter the Bible
Seminary background essay on the crossing and end of wilderness wandering.
The Church Fathers
Sermons & Reflections
Questions preachers ask
How does Israel cross the Jordan?
As the priests carrying the ark step into the flooded Jordan, the waters stand in a heap and Israel crosses on dry ground (Joshua 3), an echo of the Red Sea and a sign that God is with Joshua as with Moses.
Prep at sermons.com
Ready to write?
- Full sermons on Matthew 3:13-17
- Illustrations cleared for use in worship
- Commentary, quotes, and Bible dictionary
Trusted by pastors since 1995.
Free every Tuesday
Illustrations & Sermon Prep in your inbox
The coming Sunday’s readings, a cleared-for-use illustration, and a sermon-prep head start. One email, free.