MPV Commentary

Joshua Encourages the People.

The Israelites had received no clear instructions on how to cross the river until just before it happened. Joshua's premonitory address, taken together with the miraculous outcome exactly as he described it, would have strengthened and confirmed their faith in the God of their ancestors. This experience would have contrasted sharply with their former idols, which were lifeless and powerless, but rather highlighted the living, powerful, and active nature of their God who was capable of defending and working on their behalf.