What can we learn from the tribes' decision to build an altar "for ourselves"? Setting the Scene—Joshua 22:10 “When they came to Geliloth near the Jordan in the land of Canaan, the sons of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh built an imposing altar there by the Jordan.” Why the Eastern Tribes Acted - Separation anxiety: their homes lay east of the Jordan, physically removed from the central place of worship at Shiloh. - Fear for future generations: “We did this for fear that in the future your descendants might say to our descendants, ‘What have you to do with the LORD…?’” (Joshua 22:24–25). - Desire for a visible witness: “Let us take action and build an altar for ourselves… it will be a witness between us and you and between the generations after us.” (Joshua 22:26–27). Lessons on Spiritual Identity • Guard your heritage—take deliberate steps to keep faith central for children yet unborn (Psalm 78:5–7). • Physical distance must never become spiritual distance; maintain connection with God’s people (Hebrews 10:24–25). • A tangible reminder can anchor invisible truths—much like the memorial stones at Gilgal (Joshua 4:6–7). Lessons on Unity in the Covenant Community • Clarify motives quickly: the western tribes confronted the issue before rumors festered (Proverbs 18:13). • Choose reconciliation over accusation: the dialogue in Joshua 22 prevented civil war (Ephesians 4:3). • Recognize one altar for sacrifice—God’s prescribed place (Deuteronomy 12:13–14); the eastern altar was explicitly “not for burnt offering or sacrifice” (Joshua 22:26). Lessons on Proactive Safeguards • Build spiritual guardrails before crisis hits (1 Corinthians 10:12). • Teach doctrine clearly so future generations cannot be talked out of their inheritance (2 Timothy 1:13–14). • Memorials point forward as well as back; every Lord’s Supper likewise proclaims Christ “until He comes” (1 Corinthians 11:26). Lessons on Holy Fear • Proper fear of God fuels obedience, not paralysis (Proverbs 1:7). • The tribes feared losing access to the LORD more than conflict with neighbors—right priorities (Matthew 10:28). Living It Out Today - Create visible reminders of God’s work in your family—journals, scripture plaques, testimonies. - Stay accountable to a Bible-believing church even when geography or culture separates. - Address misunderstandings among believers swiftly and biblically. - Teach children that their share in the LORD rests on Christ’s finished work, not family tradition alone (John 1:12–13). Summary The altar “for ourselves” shouts the importance of preserving faith identity, promoting covenant unity, and practicing proactive obedience. Its story urges every generation to remember, relate, and remain faithful to the LORD who unites His people on both sides of the river. |
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