How can we prevent misunderstandings like those in Joshua 22:25 in our church? A Familiar Scenario from Joshua 22:25 “ ‘For the LORD has made the Jordan a border between us and you Reubenites and Gadites. You have no share in the LORD,’ so your descendants would keep our descendants from fearing the LORD.” What Went Wrong Then - The western tribes jumped to conclusions. - They relied on hearsay instead of firsthand conversation. - Fear for the next generation’s faith fueled suspicion. - An altar meant as a witness (v. 27) looked like rebellion (v. 16). Why Misunderstandings Still Happen - Limited information spreads faster than the full story. - Passion for doctrine or tradition can eclipse patient listening. - Physical or ministry “borders” (age groups, services, small groups) create distance. - We often assume motives instead of asking. Preventing Similar Misunderstandings in Our Church 1. Listen Before Labeling • “He who answers a matter before he hears it, it is folly and shame to him.” (Proverbs 18:13) • Slow conversations down; ask clarifying questions. • Encourage members to speak directly with those involved, not about them. 2. Build Bridges, Not Borders • Schedule joint gatherings of different ministries so people see one another’s hearts. • Mix small-group seating, service projects, or prayer teams across demographics. • Reaffirm our shared identity: “For we were all baptized by one Spirit into one body.” (1 Corinthians 12:13) 3. Assume Family, Not Foes • “In humility value others above yourselves.” (Philippians 2:3) • Begin discussions with the belief that brothers and sisters desire to honor the Lord. • Express that assumption out loud; it disarms suspicion. 4. Pursue Face-to-Face Resolution Quickly • Jesus commands, “First be reconciled to your brother.” (Matthew 5:23-24) • Encourage immediate, in-person meetings when tension surfaces. • Provide shepherding elders or mature believers to mediate if needed. 5. Communicate Vision Early and Clearly • The eastern tribes built the altar “that it may be a witness between us.” (Joshua 22:27) • Explain new ministries, budget shifts, or facility changes before they launch. • Use multiple channels—pulpit, email, social media, small groups—so the whole body hears. 6. Keep the Gospel Central • “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” (Ephesians 4:3) • Unity thrives when Christ’s finished work, not personal preference, is our focal point. • Regularly celebrate communion and testimonies to remind us of our common rescue. 7. Pray Together for Mutual Understanding • “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God.” (James 1:5) • Corporate prayer softens hearts and aligns perspectives. • Pair ministries or small groups to pray for one another’s needs and plans. Supporting Scriptures at a Glance - Proverbs 18:13 — Hear before you answer. - James 1:19 — “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak.” - Romans 14:19 — “Pursue what leads to peace and mutual edification.” - 1 Corinthians 1:10 — Be “perfectly united in mind and judgment.” - Ephesians 4:1-3 — Walk “with all humility and gentleness… eager to maintain unity.” Living It Out Together Misunderstandings like the one in Joshua 22 grow in the dark but wither in the light of honest, gracious conversation. When we listen carefully, clarify motives, and keep the cross at the center, borders become bridges and the next generation sees a church that truly fears the Lord—together. |
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