EXPLORE THE TEXT
God expects believers to remember and testify to what He has done for them.
8 The Israelites did just as Joshua had commanded them.
The twelve men took stones from the middle of the Jordan,
one for each of the Israelite tribes,
just as the Lord had told Joshua.
They carried them to the camp and set them down there.
9 Joshua also set up twelve stones in the middle of the Jordan
where the priests who carried the ark of the covenant were standing.
The stones are still there today.
Share physical monuments or markers they may currently have around their home.
Why are they significant?
Review the information about the monument set up in verse 8:
The twelve men set the stones in the camp. .
Verse 19 indicates the camp was located in Gilgal,
a place that would have great significance in the life of Israel going forward.
Thus, generations to come would have the opportunity to learn the meaning of the twelve stones. (PSG, p. 35)
9 Joshua also set up twelve stones in the middle of the Jordan
where the priests who carried the ark of the covenant were standing.
The stones are still there today.
Why would it be important for the Israelites to know that the monument was still there?
Events in our lives as believers can serve as “memorials”
to God’s work in our lives.
Emphasize the importance of recounting our personal faith stories
for our children and grandchildren.
Thank God for His activity in the lives of His people,
asking Him to help each adult remember how much He does for them.