In this verse-by-verse study of Joshua 5, Reasoning Through the Bible examines the chapter that comes just before Jericho. Instead of rushing straight into battle, Israel must first get right with God. The people are circumcised, they celebrate the Passover, the manna stops, and Joshua encounters a mysterious figure with a drawn sword who identifies himself as the commander of the Lord’s army. 

This session explores why circumcision mattered as a covenant sign, how it pictured cleansing and separation, and why Israel had neglected it during the wilderness years. The discussion also draws New Testament parallels to the heart, baptism, and the Christian life, showing that people are not saved by outward ritual, but that once God saves, He begins to clean up their lives. 

The episode also highlights the Passover as a memorial of God’s redemption, the end of manna once Israel entered the land, and the striking appearance of the man with the drawn sword. Since Joshua worships him and he accepts that worship, the session argues that this is no mere angel, but the pre-incarnate Christ appearing before the battle. 

Topics in this episode include:

•  Joshua 5 study 
•  circumcision in Joshua 
•  getting right with God 
•  Passover in the Promised Land 
•  why the manna stopped 
•  the commander of the Lord’s army 
•  pre-incarnate Christ 
•  cleansing before conquest 
•  preparation before Jericho 

Reasoning Through the Bible is a verse-by-verse Bible teaching ministry committed to careful exposition, biblical context, and faithful application.

Questions in this session:

• Do we get clean before or after salvation?
• When we get right with God, how much use is our flesh? 
• Who is the only person who can rightfully accept worship?
• What are the signs of the covenants in the OT vs the NT? 

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May God Bless you!! - Glenn and Steve