(Josh. 3)
is often applied to actual death which is called “passing through the cold waters,” and affords entrance to Canaan, or heaven. But although Jordan may appear at first a very apt simile of the death of the body, this view is not strictly correct, for the first thing Israel did after they crossed was to renew circumcision, and the next to begin to fight in order to possess the land. This corresponds with Eph. 6, which would make the crossing of Jordan a figure, rather, of our death “with Christ (ch. 2.); and this is clearly set forth by the placing of the twelve tribes in figure where the ark had been (Josh. 4:9). The Christian not only knows that Christ has died for him, but that he has died with Christ (Rom. 6). and, risen out of death, can proceed to reckon himself dead, and to practically enjoy his new heavenly position (Canaan) and blessings in which, however, Satan will resist him at every point. The true meaning, then, of “crossing the Jordan” is having died with Christ. Observe carefully this is not an attainment, or a state, but is the privilege and standing of every true believer. To say, therefore, “You must cross the Jordan” is incorrect, and casts me on myself instead of Christ. If I am His I have crossed it, though I may not know my position or enjoy the lands.