How can we apply the resolution methods in Joshua 22:31 to church disputes? Setting the Scene in Joshua 22:31 “Today we know that the LORD is among us, because you have not committed this unfaithfulness against the LORD. Now you have delivered the Israelites from the hand of the LORD.” (Joshua 22:31) Phinehas and the western tribes had feared rebellion when the eastern tribes built an altar. A careful investigation revealed the altar was a memorial, not an act of apostasy. The misunderstanding was cleared, unity restored, and God’s presence affirmed. Core Principles We See • Initiate investigation rather than immediate judgment • Involve respected, spiritually mature representatives (Phinehas and the chiefs) • Listen to the accused party’s full explanation • Measure all claims by God’s revealed truth • Celebrate resolution and publicly affirm unity once truth is known Translating the Principles to Church Life • Love moves us to protect purity, yet patience keeps us from false accusation • God assigns leaders to guard doctrine and relationships (Hebrews 13:17) • Open conversation—face-to-face whenever possible—prevents rumor from ruling • The aim is restoration, not victory (2 Corinthians 13:11) Practical Steps for Church Disputes Today 1. Gather the Facts ‑ Ask what happened; refuse hearsay (Proverbs 18:13). 2. Send Mature Delegates ‑ Elders, deacons, or trusted saints mirror Phinehas’ role (1 Timothy 5:19). 3. Listen Before Speaking ‑ “Everyone must be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger.” (James 1:19) 4. Compare All Positions to Scripture ‑ The final authority is God’s Word, not opinion (Acts 17:11). 5. Affirm Repentance or Clarify Intent ‑ If sin exists, call for repentance (Matthew 18:15-17). ‑ If misunderstanding, acknowledge innocence as Phinehas did. 6. Declare Unity Publicly ‑ Praise God together; reassure the congregation that fellowship remains intact (Ephesians 4:3). 7. Record the Resolution ‑ Written minutes or a brief statement can prevent the issue’s return (Philippians 4:8-9). Scriptural Reinforcements • Matthew 18:15-17 — private confrontation to congregational involvement • Galatians 6:1 — restore with gentleness • Colossians 3:13-14 — bear with one another and forgive • 1 Peter 3:8 — be harmonious, sympathetic, loving, compassionate, and humble Closing Encouragement When believers follow Joshua 22:31’s pattern—fact-finding, listening, scriptural testing, and joyful reconciliation—the church models to the watching world that “the LORD is among us.” |
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