What role does obedience play in the actions of the tribes in Joshua 22:1? Setting the Scene • Joshua 22 marks a transition point. The conquest is largely complete, and Joshua “summoned the Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh” (Joshua 22:1). • These eastern tribes had fought beside their brothers west of the Jordan for roughly seven years, leaving their own families and land undefended—purely out of obedience to a prior command (Numbers 32:20–22; Joshua 1:12-16). The Call They Chose to Obey • The command first came from Moses: “If you will do this… if all of you armed for battle cross over the Jordan before the LORD… then afterward you may return” (Numbers 32:20-22). • Joshua later reiterated the same charge: “Remember what Moses the servant of the LORD commanded you” (Joshua 1:13). • By Joshua 22:1 the eastern tribes have fully kept both Moses’ and Joshua’s words—highlighting that their primary motivation has been obedience to God-given authority. Marks of Their Obedience 1. Immediate readiness – They did not delay when the call to battle came (Joshua 4:12-13). 2. Sustained perseverance – They stayed “the whole time” (Joshua 22:3) until the LORD gave rest to the entire nation. 3. Submission under leadership – Their obedience is commended in Joshua 22:2: “You have kept all that Moses the servant of the LORD commanded you and have obeyed me in everything I commanded you.” 4. Covenant-centered motive – Their actions were more than military duty; they were a tangible expression of covenant faithfulness to the LORD and to their brothers (Deuteronomy 6:17). Fruit of Their Obedience • Commendation—Joshua publicly praises them (Joshua 22:2-3). • Blessing—They are sent away “with great wealth” (Joshua 22:8), showing that obedience often precedes divine provision (Deuteronomy 28:1-6). • Peace—They return “in peace to your tents” (Joshua 22:4), experiencing the rest promised by the LORD. • Ongoing testimony—Their later construction of an altar of witness (Joshua 22:10, 34) stems from a desire to safeguard future obedience. Takeaways for Today • Obedience brings unity. The tribes’ willingness to fight for land they would never inhabit preserved national solidarity (Psalm 133:1). • Obedience requires endurance. They modeled faithfulness until the assignment was complete (Hebrews 10:36). • Obedience invites blessing. Material reward was secondary; the primary gift was affirmation from God’s appointed leader and the enjoyment of promised rest (John 14:23). In Joshua 22:1 the summoning of the eastern tribes is the climax of years of steadfast obedience, proving that wholehearted submission to God’s word secures both fellowship with His people and the fulfillment of His promises. |
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