How can we address misunderstandings within our church community, as seen in Joshua 22:11? Revisiting the Scene in Joshua 22:11 “Then the Israelites heard it said, ‘Look, the Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh have built an altar opposite the land of Canaan, in the region of the Jordan on the Israelite side.’ ” An alarming report spread: eastern tribes were allegedly setting up a rival altar. Misunderstanding threatened the unity of God’s people. Recognize How Quickly Misunderstandings Arise • News traveled by word of mouth, not firsthand inspection. • Assumptions formed before facts were gathered. • The covenant community teetered on the edge of civil war (Joshua 22:12). First Response: Pause and Pursue Clarification • Proverbs 18:13 — “He who answers a matter before he hears the facts, it is folly and shame to him.” • James 1:19 — “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger.” • Israel paused long enough to send a delegation led by Phinehas (Joshua 22:13–14). Application: before voicing criticism in church, go directly to the source; hear motives and details. Send Trustworthy, Spirit-Led Representatives • Phinehas was known for zeal and integrity (Numbers 25:10–13). • Ten respected leaders accompanied him, representing every western tribe (Joshua 22:14). • Matthew 18:15–16 reinforces this pattern of going privately first, then with witnesses if needed. Application: involve mature believers who value truth and peace, not gossip or partisanship. Communicate Clearly and Biblically • Phinehas asked direct questions, framing concerns around covenant faithfulness (Joshua 22:16). • He appealed to shared history: “Was not the sin of Peor enough for us?” (Joshua 22:17). • Ephesians 4:29 — “Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building up.” Application: voice concerns lovingly, tie them to Scripture, and avoid accusations that inflame emotions. Listen for the Heart Behind Actions • Reuben, Gad, and Manasseh explained: the altar was “not for burnt offerings or sacrifices, but as a witness between us that the LORD is God” (Joshua 22:26–27). • Hebrews 4:12 reminds that the Word discerns intentions; hear those intentions before judging. Application: ask, “What were you hoping to accomplish?” rather than assuming motives. Accept Evidence, Rejoice in Unity • Phinehas and the leaders were “satisfied” (Joshua 22:30). • Conflict was averted, and worship remained unified around the true altar at Shiloh. • Psalm 133:1 — “How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony!” Application: once clarification is received, drop suspicions and celebrate restored fellowship. Maintain Ongoing Communication Channels • The altar was named “A Witness Between Us that the LORD is God” (Joshua 22:34), providing a physical reminder of unity. • 1 Corinthians 1:10 urges believers to be “perfectly united in mind and judgment.” Application: establish standing avenues—regular meetings, shared ministries, open forums—so small concerns never grow into major breaches. Safeguards for Today’s Church • Be proactive: schedule elder or ministry team check-ins to surface issues early. • Use multiple witnesses: emails, minutes, and face-to-face conversations guard against misquotes. • Cultivate a culture of Scripture: decisions and corrections grounded in the Bible gain credibility. • Commit to peacemaking: Romans 14:19 — “So then, let us pursue what leads to peace and to mutual edification.” When misunderstandings surface, Scripture calls believers to gather facts, communicate with love, and prioritize unity. Joshua 22 shows that what could have ended in division can, through godly process, become a powerful testimony of shared faith. |
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