How can we apply the lesson of witness from Joshua 22:34 in our lives? The Moment at the Jordan “ ‘The Reubenites and the Gadites named the altar Witness, for they said, “It is a witness between us that the LORD is God.”’ ” (Joshua 22:34) Why This Altar Matters • It safeguarded unity: an outward reminder that all twelve tribes served the same Lord. • It preserved orthodoxy: a testimony that worship belongs to Yahweh alone (cf. Deuteronomy 6:4). • It anticipated accountability: a physical marker that future generations must remain faithful (cf. Joshua 24:27). Lessons About Witness • Witness is public—something others can see, reference, and remember (Matthew 5:14–16). • Witness is doctrinal—anchored in the confession “the LORD is God” (1 Kings 18:39). • Witness is communal—it binds believers together around shared truth (Ephesians 4:4–6). Living as Everyday Altars 1. Display clear allegiance: – Wear your faith on your sleeve through words, actions, and priorities (Colossians 3:17). 2. Guard doctrinal purity: – Measure beliefs against Scripture, not culture (2 Timothy 1:13–14). 3. Build visible reminders at home: – Scripture on walls, family devotions, gospel-centered traditions (Deuteronomy 6:6–9). Practical Steps to Strengthen Your Witness • Speak the gospel naturally in conversation (Acts 1:8). • Serve consistently where people can connect your kindness to Christ (Philippians 2:15). • Share testimonies of God’s faithfulness—keep a journal, post it, tell it (Revelation 12:11). • Maintain integrity—repent quickly, make restitution publicly when needed (Proverbs 28:13). Guarding Unity Through Testimony • Clarify misunderstandings quickly, just as the eastern tribes did (Joshua 22:15–18). • Celebrate common ground in Christ rather than majoring on minor differences (Romans 15:5–7). • Pray for and with believers from other congregations, demonstrating one body (John 17:21). Passing the Witness Forward • Retell God’s works to children and grandchildren (Psalm 78:4). • Encourage memory-makers: mission trips, baptism celebrations, communion, testimonies. • Leave enduring symbols: Bibles with notes, highlighted promises, letters of faith. Stand Firm, Shine Bright The altar called Witness still speaks: our lives must echo the confession that “the LORD is God.” Live so unmistakably for Christ that those who follow can point to you and say, “That life is a witness between us that the LORD is God.” |
    |