What scriptural connections exist between Joshua 22:21 and Matthew 18:15 on conflict resolution? Backdrop in Joshua 22 • After receiving their inheritance east of the Jordan, Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh build an imposing altar near the river (Joshua 22:10). • The western tribes assume this new altar signals rebellion against the one true sanctuary. • War is threatened, but before swords come out, a delegation is sent for clarification (22:11-14). The Pivotal Response “Then the Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh answered the heads of the Israelite clans” (Joshua 22:21). • They affirm loyalty to the LORD (22:22-23). • They explain the altar is a witness, not for sacrifices (22:24-29). • The delegation accepts the explanation, and unity is preserved (22:30-34). Conflict-Resolution Steps Modeled in Joshua 22 1. Concern is verified before acting (v. 13-14). 2. Representatives go directly to the perceived offenders (v. 15). 3. Clear questions are asked; motives are explored (v. 16-20). 4. The accused are given full opportunity to speak (v. 21-29). 5. When clarity comes, reconciliation is celebrated (v. 30-33). Jesus’ Instruction in Matthew 18 “If your brother sins against you, go and confront him privately. If he listens to you, you have won your brother over” (Matthew 18:15). • Step 1: Go to the person in private. • Step 2 (v. 16): If unresolved, take one or two witnesses. • Step 3 (v. 17): If still unresolved, tell it to the church. • Goal: restoration, not punishment. Shared Biblical Principles • Direct approach—no gossip, no delay. • Hear both sides—assume misunderstanding is possible. • Preserve unity—division harms the covenant community. • Prioritize reconciliation over vindication. • Use representative witnesses when needed (Joshua’s delegation ⇔ Matthew’s “one or two others”). Side-by-Side Glance • Initiator: Western tribes (Joshua 22) ⇔ Offended believer (Matthew 18). • Setting: National covenant context ⇔ Local church context. • First move: Face-to-face dialogue in both passages. • Outcome sought: Confirmation of covenant faithfulness and peace. • Escalation path: War avoided by dialogue ⇔ Church discipline only after dialogue fails. Supporting Scriptures • Proverbs 18:17—“The first to state his case seems right until another comes and cross-examines him.” • Leviticus 19:17—“You shall not hate your brother in your heart. Rebuke your neighbor directly, so you will not incur guilt because of him.” • Ephesians 4:3—“Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” Practical Takeaways • Believe the best until facts are known. • Go swiftly, speak gently, listen carefully. • Keep issues as small and private as possible. • Celebrate repentance and clarification as victories of grace. Living It Out Follow Joshua 22 and Matthew 18 when tension rises: check motives, seek facts, confront in love, involve witnesses only when needed, and aim for restored fellowship—guarding the unity Christ purchased with His blood (John 17:20-23; Acts 20:28). |
    |