The Verse
King James Version (KJV): And it shall be on the day when ye shall pass over Jordan unto the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee, that thou shalt set thee up great stones, and plaister them with plaister:
New International Version (NIV): When you have crossed the Jordan into the land the LORD your God is giving you, set up some large stones and coat them with plaster.
English Standard Version (ESV): And on the day you cross over the Jordan to the land that the Lord your God is giving you, you shall set up large stones and plaster them with plaster.
Introduction
Crossing over into new seasons of life can be both exhilarating and daunting. Deuteronomy 27:2 offers a powerful image for such transitions: the setting up of great stones as a lasting memorial. This verse invites us to consider how we mark moments of divine promise and fulfillment.
In our journey of faith, we often encounter thresholds that require us to remember God’s provision and promises. As the Israelites prepared to enter the Promised Land, they were instructed to set up stones—a tangible reminder of God’s faithfulness and their covenant relationship.
Historical Context
Deuteronomy was written by Moses around 1406 B.C., as the Israelites prepared to enter the Promised Land after 40 years in the wilderness. This verse instructs them to set up stones as they cross the Jordan River, serving as a memorial of God’s provision and their commitment to His laws. The setting was one of anticipation and fulfillment, as they were about to receive the land promised to their ancestors.
Key Word Analysis
Pass Over: The Hebrew word ‘abar’ signifies crossing or passing through, indicating movement into new territory.
Great Stones: The stones represent permanence and are a physical reminder of divine intervention and covenant.
Plaister: This refers to covering the stones with a coating, possibly to inscribe the words of the law, symbolizing the permanence of God’s commandments.
Spiritual Insight
This verse illustrates the importance of remembering God’s past faithfulness as we move forward in faith. It encourages us to establish markers in our lives that testify to God’s goodness and uphold His commandments as we enter new phases of our spiritual journey.
Life Application
Modern readers can apply this verse by creating ‘spiritual markers’ in their lives—whether through journaling, photographs, or art. These markers serve as reminders of God’s faithfulness and help us recall His promises during times of transition or difficulty.
What Jesus Might Say About This Verse
My beloved, as you journey through life, remember to pause and set markers of My love and faithfulness. Let these stones of remembrance guide you back to My promises when you face challenges. Trust that I am with you always, leading you into My promises.
Prayer Prompt
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your faithfulness in every season of my life. Help me to remember Your goodness and establish reminders of Your promises. Guide my steps as I cross into new territories, and fill my heart with peace and assurance. Amen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ques: Why were the Israelites instructed to set up great stones?
Ans: The great stones served as a memorial of God's faithfulness and a reminder of the covenant as the Israelites entered the Promised Land.
Ques: What does 'plaister' mean in this context?
Ans: Plaister refers to a coating applied to the stones, possibly to inscribe the words of the law, symbolizing the permanence of God's commandments.
Ques: How can we create spiritual markers today?
Ans: We can create spiritual markers through journaling, photographs, art, or any means that remind us of God's faithfulness and promises.
Ques: What is the significance of crossing the Jordan?
Ans: Crossing the Jordan represented entering the Promised Land, a fulfillment of God's promise and a new chapter in the Israelites' spiritual journey.
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