How can Joshua 22:32 guide us in addressing conflicts within the church? Setting the Scene • After conquering Canaan, the two-and-a-half eastern tribes built an altar by the Jordan. • The western tribes feared it signaled rebellion against the LORD. • A delegation led by Phinehas investigated, heard the eastern tribes’ explanation (vv. 21-31), and, as Joshua 22:32 records, “brought back a report concerning them.” • Their careful process averted civil war and preserved unity. Key Verse “Then Phinehas son of Eleazar the priest and the leaders returned from the Reubenites and the Gadites in the land of Gilead to the Israelites in Canaan and brought back a report concerning them.” (Joshua 22:32) Principles for Resolving Conflict • Initiate personal engagement rather than react with hostility. – Matthew 18:15-17 models the same pattern: go first, talk, then involve others if needed. • Seek full information before judging motives. – Proverbs 18:13 warns, “He who answers before he hears, it is folly and shame to him.” • Include spiritually mature leadership. – Phinehas, a priest zealous for holiness (Numbers 25:10-13), guided the talks. • Return and give an honest, peace-seeking report. – “A truthful witness saves lives” (Proverbs 14:25). • Celebrate unity when truth prevails. – Psalm 133:1; Ephesians 4:3 emphasize the blessing of brethren dwelling in harmony. Practical Steps for Today’s Church 1. Notice early signs of misunderstanding; don’t let silence widen the gap. 2. Send a small, respected team to listen first, not lecture. 3. Let Scripture, not personal preference, define right and wrong (2 Timothy 3:16-17). 4. Verify facts, then communicate them clearly to the wider body. 5. Reaffirm shared faith and mission, expressing gratitude when resolution comes (Colossians 3:15). Further Scriptural Parallels • Acts 15:1-35—Jerusalem Council used dialogue and Scripture to resolve doctrinal conflict. • Galatians 6:1—Restore a brother “in a spirit of gentleness.” • 1 Corinthians 1:10—Appeal that “there be no divisions among you.” • Philippians 4:2-3—Paul mediates between Euodia and Syntyche, urging help from others. Takeaway Joshua 22:32 models proactive investigation, godly leadership, and transparent reporting—tools that still safeguard unity and truth in Christ’s church today. |
    |