Compare Joshua 22:25 with Ephesians 4:3 on maintaining unity. What insights emerge? Setting the Stage Israel had just completed the conquest of Canaan. The tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh were preparing to return east of the Jordan. Before leaving, they built a large altar by the river—an action that nearly sparked civil war (Joshua 22). Centuries later, Paul, writing to believers in Ephesus, urged them to “keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:3). What happens when we read these two moments side by side? Joshua 22:25 – A Potential Breach “ ‘For the LORD has made the Jordan a boundary between us and you Reubenites and Gadites. You have no share in the LORD.’ So your descendants could cause our descendants to stop fearing the LORD.” • The east-side tribes feared future exclusion from temple worship. • Their solution—an altar of witness—was meant to shout, “We belong to the same covenant family.” • Unity here is threatened by geography, misunderstanding, and assumptions about motives. Ephesians 4:3 – A Call to Guard the Bond “and with diligence to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” • Paul treats unity as something already given by the Spirit, but fragile and needing protection. • “Diligence” (Greek: spoudazō) implies haste, earnest effort, and persistence—no passive attitude allowed. • The “bond of peace” echoes the altar’s purpose in Joshua 22: a visible, peace-creating witness that God’s people share one faith. Shared Insights on Unity • Unity must be pursued proactively. Reuben, Gad, and Manasseh took action before division took root; Paul commands believers to act “with diligence.” • Misunderstandings are inevitable; clarifying motives preserves fellowship (Joshua 22:15-34; Proverbs 18:13). • Physical or cultural barriers (a river, a denomination, a cultural line) need tangible reminders that we are one body (1 Corinthians 12:12-13). • True unity centers on shared worship of the LORD. The altar pointed to the tabernacle; Paul points to the Spirit who indwells every believer (John 17:21-23). • Peace is both the means and the evidence of unity. The altar diffused war; the Spirit’s peace showcases authentic fellowship (Colossians 3:14-15). Practical Takeaways for Today • Build “altars of witness” in relationships—clear, visible commitments that say, “We are on the same team in Christ.” • Handle rumors swiftly and graciously: go to your brother, ask questions, listen well (Matthew 18:15). • Make every effort to preserve unity before differences harden into division; it is easier to prevent a split than to repair one. • Let peace be the umpire (Colossians 3:15). If tension escalates, pause and ask: “Will this course protect the bond of peace or fracture it?” • Remember that unity is a gift, not a human achievement; our job is to guard what the Spirit has already forged. Supporting Scriptures Psalm 133:1; John 13:34-35; 1 Corinthians 1:10; Philippians 2:2-3; Romans 14:19 |
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