Joshua 5:1-15
So we find ourselves on this resurrection shore! What do we discover? We discover to our distress first of all that external enemies have reappeared. Take heart! They are weak (v. 1), already defeated by Christ at the cross (Colossians 2:15). Our internal enemy, the flesh, is also present. Was it not pronounced dead and buried in the depths of the Jordan? Certainly! In God’s eyes, it occupies that place. But we must reckon ourselves dead to sin (Romans 6:11), recognizing that it has no authority to show its face. Circumcision represents this judgment which we must bring to bear upon every manifestation of the flesh in us. When it is carried out, then we discover what resources and joy await us on this "shore" of the heavenly places. Firstly the old corn of the land, which replaces the manna, is a picture of the glorified Christ by whom each redeemed one is fed. Then comes the Passover; it can be held beneath the very walls of Jericho. "Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies" (Psalms 23:5). Finally there is the Angel promised by the LORD (Exodus 23:23). He too is a type of Jesus who is in heaven on our behalf and directs our battles.