How does Joshua 22:26 emphasize the importance of maintaining unity among believers? Verse in focus “Therefore we said, ‘Let us build an altar for ourselves, not for burnt offering or sacrifice,’ ” (Joshua 22:26) Setting the scene • After years of conquest, the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh received their inheritance east of the Jordan. • Crossing back over the river meant physical separation from the rest of Israel and from the tabernacle in Shiloh—the approved place of worship (Deuteronomy 12:5–7). • To keep that distance from becoming a spiritual wedge, the eastern tribes erected a replica altar on the Jordan’s western bank as a “witness” (22:27) that they remained one people worshiping the one true God. Unity at stake • Without proactive steps, future generations might say, “You have no share in the LORD” (22:24). • The altar was not for sacrifices—preventing confusion or unauthorized worship—but a visible reminder of covenant fellowship. • Their motive highlights how quickly misunderstandings can fracture God’s people if communication and visible commitment are lacking. Key lessons for believers today • Guard unity before division starts—act early, not after tensions harden (Ephesians 4:3). • Use tangible reminders of shared faith: baptism, Communion, corporate worship, and even symbols like crosses can testify that we belong to one body (1 Corinthians 10:16–17). • Distinguish between true worship and symbols of unity; keep doctrine and practice aligned with Scripture (John 4:24). • Communicate intentions clearly. The eastern tribes immediately explained their action, averting war (Proverbs 15:1). • Share a collective identity that transcends geography, culture, or generation (Galatians 3:28). Supporting Scriptures • Psalm 133:1 — “How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity!” • John 17:21 — Jesus prays “that they may all be one… so that the world may believe.” • 1 Corinthians 1:10 — “I appeal to you… that there be no divisions among you.” • Ephesians 4:3 — “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” Take-home insights • Joshua 22:26 shows that unity is worth intentional, even creative, action. • Symbolic acts, when anchored in biblical truth, can strengthen communal bonds. • Believers safeguard unity by honoring God’s prescribed worship, communicating openly, and remembering they belong to one covenant family in Christ. |
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