MPV Commentary

1. Joshua rose early in the morning on the day following the spies' return with their encouraging report. The camp was broken up at Shittim and moved to the eastern bank of the Jordan. Their stay there lasted only one entire day, including the evening of arrival and the morning of departure.

2-4. The officers went through the host, instructing the people. These instructions differed from those given earlier (Joshua 1:11).

3, 4. When you see the ark, with the priests bearing it, follow after it. However, keep a space between yourselves and the ark, nearly a mile wide. This distance was necessary to ensure that everyone could see the ark clearly as they advanced into the river.

5. Joshua had previously instructed the people about sanctification, which likely involved an outward cleansing (Exodus 19:10-15) in preparation for their spiritual state during this significant event.

6. Joshua privately ordered the priests to step into the waters of Jordan and stand still. The ark would accomplish what Moses' rod had done earlier.

Joshua 3:7, 8. The Lord Encourages Joshua.

7, 8. The Lord said to Joshua, "Today I will begin to magnify you in the sight of all Israel." This public recognition of Joshua's authority and mission was a higher token of divine favor, similar to what Moses had received (Exodus 14:31).