How does Joshua 22:30 demonstrate resolving conflict within the faith community? Conflict at the Jordan River After years of united conquest, the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh headed east across the Jordan. Before crossing, they built a large altar. The western tribes feared idolatry, readied for war, and sent a delegation led by Phinehas. A frank conversation followed, revealing the altar was only a witness to shared faith, not a competing place of sacrifice (Joshua 22:21-29). Joshua 22:30 – The Turning Point “When Phinehas the priest and the leaders of the congregation—the heads of the clans of Israel who were with him—heard the words that the descendants of Reuben, Gad, and Manasseh had spoken, they were satisfied.” What We Learn About Resolving Conflict • Take concerns seriously, but slow the move to judgment. • Send respected, spiritually minded representatives (Phinehas, the leaders). • Listen first; let the accused speak fully before any verdict (Proverbs 18:13; James 1:19). • Measure every claim against God’s revealed will (Deuteronomy 12:13-14). • Look for common ground in shared covenant commitments. • When a godly explanation is offered, receive it gladly and let peace replace suspicion. • Allow satisfaction—“they were satisfied”—to end hostilities; no need to revisit the matter. Echoes Through the Rest of Scripture • Matthew 18:15-17: go to a brother, talk it through, seek reconciliation. • Acts 15:6-21: apostles and elders gather, hear testimonies, reach unified decision. • Ephesians 4:3: “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” • Psalm 133:1: unity among brothers is “good and pleasant.” Putting It Into Practice • Address issues quickly yet carefully; rumors fester. • Choose mediators marked by holiness and credibility. • Let the accused explain motives; intentions matter. • Compare every side with Scripture, our ultimate standard. • Celebrate resolution; refuse to keep score of past misunderstandings. • Guard unity as passionately as doctrine—both honor the Lord who saved us. |
    |