What can we learn about unity from the alliance of five Amorite kings? The Stage is Set: Five Kings Join Forces “So the five Amorite kings—the kings of Jerusalem, Hebron, Jarmuth, Lachish, and Eglon—joined forces, advanced with all their armies, camped at Gibeon, and fought against it.” (Joshua 10:5) • Five separate city-states feel threatened by Israel’s covenant with Gibeon (Joshua 9). • Political, military, and cultural differences are laid aside for a single goal: stop God’s advancing people. • Their unity is impressive on the surface—swift coordination, pooled resources, collective strategy. What Their Alliance Teaches About Unity 1. Unity is morally neutral until its purpose is known. • Psalm 2:1-3: “Why do the nations rage… against the LORD and against His Anointed?” • Genesis 11:4: Tower of Babel builders were united, yet God scattered them. • Lesson: Shared passion does not sanctify an ungodly cause. 2. Evil alliances often look formidable but are inherently fragile. • Joshua 10:8: “The LORD said to Joshua, ‘Do not fear them, for I have delivered them into your hand; not one of them shall stand against you.’” • Proverbs 21:30: “There is no wisdom, no understanding, no counsel against the LORD.” • When opposition is rooted in rebellion, God Himself becomes its adversary. 3. God sometimes allows conspicuous evil unity to magnify His deliverance. • Joshua 10:11-14: hailstones from heaven, the sun standing still—miracles made unforgettable because five armies were jointly defeated. • Romans 9:17: Pharaoh was raised up “so that My power may be displayed.” 4. False unity pressures God’s people to compromise; true unity presses them into deeper dependence. • Israel had just been disciplined for the Gibeon treaty error, now immediately tested by this confederation. • Acts 4:24-31: Early church responds to united persecution by united prayer, boldness, and reliance on God’s sovereignty. God’s Response: Unity Against Him Cannot Stand • The kings flee and hide (Joshua 10:16), then are publicly judged (Joshua 10:24-26). • Their armies are routed beyond recovery (Joshua 10:20). • Long-term effect: other Canaanite powers lose heart (Joshua 10:42). Positive Call to God-Honoring Unity • John 17:21: Jesus prays “that they may all be one… so that the world may believe.” • Philippians 2:2: “Be like-minded, having the same love, being united in spirit and purpose.” • Ephesians 4:3: “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” Key contrasts: • Amorite unity: self-preservation, rebellion, eventual shame. • Christian unity: Christ-exalting, Spirit-empowered, eternal fruit. Practical Takeaways for Believers Today • Examine motives before joining any coalition; ask whether the purpose aligns with God’s revealed will. • Do not be intimidated by the apparent strength of ungodly alliances; the Lord has already “disarmed the rulers and authorities” (Colossians 2:15). • Cultivate unity rooted in truth, not mere sentiment—truth secures, error fractures. • Remember God can turn the enemy’s combined efforts into a backdrop for His greater victory. |
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