How can we address misunderstandings within our church community, as seen in Joshua 22? Setting the Scene “Yet when they arrived in the region of the Jordan in the land of Canaan, the Reubenites, Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh built there an imposing altar by the Jordan.” (Joshua 22:10) • After faithful service, the eastern tribes return home. • Their large altar is immediately misunderstood by the western tribes as rebellion against true worship. • Misreading motives sparks the potential for civil war. Roots of Misunderstanding • Physical distance: a river now separates brethren (v. 25). • Assumptions: the western tribes assume idolatry (v. 16). • Fear of shared judgment: memories of Achan (Joshua 7) fuel alarm (v. 20). • Lack of initial dialogue: conclusions are reached before conversation. Steps Toward Resolution “Then the Israelites sent Phinehas son of Eleazar the priest to the Reubenites, Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh in the land of Gilead.” (Joshua 22:13) 1. Send respected, godly representatives • Phinehas carries moral authority (Numbers 25:10-13). • Elders accompany him (v. 14). • Principle: involve mature believers when tensions rise (cf. Galatians 6:1). 2. Present the concern candidly • “How could you break faith with the LORD?” (v. 16). • Direct speech avoids gossip (Proverbs 18:13). • Tone: firm yet brotherly. 3. Allow full explanation • Eastern tribes clarify: the altar is a witness, not for sacrifice (vv. 24-27). • They affirm loyalty: “Far be it from us to rebel against the LORD” (v. 29). • Listening prevents false accusation (James 1:19). 4. Verify alignment with Scripture • Worship must remain at God’s chosen altar (Deuteronomy 12:13-14). • The explanation agrees with God’s commands, satisfying leaders. 5. Celebrate restored unity • Phinehas blesses God for preserving Israel (vv. 31-33). • War is averted; the name “Witness” underscores shared faith (v. 34). • Unity maintained fulfills Psalm 133:1. Timeless Principles for Today • Approach issues personally, not second-hand (Matthew 18:15). • Assign spiritually mature mediators when stakes are high. • State concerns biblically, not emotionally. • Hear the other side completely before judging. • Evaluate actions against clear Scripture, never human preference. • Rejoice over reconciliation; give public thanks (Ephesians 4:3). Living It Out in the Church Family • Cultivate relationships that bridge “river” divides—age, culture, ministry style. • Replace speculation with conversation. • When doctrinal integrity seems threatened, act swiftly but scripturally. • Guard the testimony of the body; a united witness honors the Lord before a watching world (John 13:35). |
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