What can we learn from Joshua 22:24 about addressing misunderstandings among believers? Setting the Scene • The eastern tribes (Reuben, Gad, half-Manasseh) build an altar by the Jordan after being dismissed by Joshua (Joshua 22:10). • The western tribes assume rebellion and prepare for war (22:12). • The eastern tribes explain their purpose in Joshua 22:24: “But in fact we have done this for fear that in the future your descendants might say to ours, ‘What have you to do with the LORD, the God of Israel?’”. Identify the Root of the Misunderstanding • Misinterpretation began with an external act—an altar that looked like disobedience. • Lesson: surface appearances can conceal faithful motives (cf. 1 Samuel 16:7). Initiate Honest, Humble Dialogue • The western tribes first sent a delegation headed by Phinehas (22:13–14), illustrating Proverbs 18:13: “He who answers a matter before he hears it, this is folly and shame to him.” • They asked pointed questions, but listened (22:15–20). • Lesson: approach possible sin directly and personally, not through gossip (Matthew 18:15). State Motives Clearly • Joshua 22:24 shows the eastern tribes laying out their heart-concern: future generations might be cut off from covenant worship. • Clear communication of motives diffuses suspicion (James 1:19). • Lesson: when misunderstood, articulate your intent calmly and completely. Stand on Shared Covenant Truth • The tribes appeal to “the LORD, the God of Israel,” reminding everyone of their common allegiance (22:19, 24). • Unity is preserved when believers return to Scripture’s authority (Ephesians 4:4–6). Act Before the Rift Widens • They confronted the issue “today” (22:16). Swift attention prevented escalation (Ephesians 4:26–27). • Lesson: lingering misunderstandings harden hearts; address them promptly. Invite Witness and Accountability • The altar was named “A Witness between us that the LORD is God” (22:34). • Tangible reminders—communion table, baptismal testimonies, shared service—keep believers focused on unity (1 Corinthians 11:26). Emulate Christlike Unity Today • Misunderstandings will arise; resolve them by: – Listening before judging (Proverbs 18:2). – Speaking truth in love (Ephesians 4:15). – Valuing the relationship over being “right” (Romans 12:18). • Joshua 22:24 teaches that proactively explaining our intentions, rooted in fear of God and concern for future faithfulness, turns potential division into deeper fellowship. |
    |