Joshua 22:18

And now, would you turn away from the LORD? If you rebel today against the LORD, tomorrow He will be angry with the whole congregation of Israel.

Study Bible

And now, would you turn away from the LORD?
This phrase addresses the Israelites' potential apostasy, a recurring theme in the Old Testament. Turning away from the LORD signifies a breach of the covenant relationship established at Sinai (Exodus 19-24). The historical context involves the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh, who settled east of the Jordan River. Their construction of an altar raised concerns of idolatry or unauthorized worship, reminiscent of the golden calf incident (Exodus 32). The question serves as a warning against repeating past mistakes and emphasizes the importance of faithfulness to God.

If you rebel today against the LORD,
Rebellion against the LORD is equated with sin and disobedience, which has severe consequences. The historical context includes the Israelites' previous rebellions, such as the refusal to enter the Promised Land (Numbers 14) and the worship of Baal of Peor (Numbers 25). This phrase underscores the seriousness of rebellion, which is not just a personal failing but a communal threat. Theologically, rebellion is seen as a rejection of God's authority and provision, which can lead to divine judgment.

tomorrow He will be angry with the whole congregation of Israel.
This phrase highlights the communal nature of sin and its consequences. In the ancient Near Eastern context, the actions of individuals or groups could affect the entire community, as seen in the sin of Achan (Joshua 7). The concept of corporate responsibility is evident, where the sin of a few can bring God's wrath upon all. This reflects the covenantal relationship where blessings and curses are shared among the people (Deuteronomy 28). Theologically, it points to the need for communal holiness and accountability. The warning serves as a reminder of God's justice and the importance of maintaining purity and obedience within the community.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The leader of Israel after Moses, who is addressing the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh.

2. Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh
These tribes had settled on the east side of the Jordan River and were being accused of building an altar in rebellion against God.

3. The Altar
A significant structure built by the eastern tribes, which was misunderstood by the rest of Israel as a sign of rebellion.

4. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, whose commands and relationship with His people are central to this passage.

5. The Congregation of Israel
The collective body of the Israelite tribes, who are concerned about maintaining faithfulness to God.

Teaching Points

Faithfulness to God
The importance of remaining steadfast in our commitment to God and His commands.

Community Responsibility
Understanding that our actions can affect the entire community of believers, not just ourselves.

Discernment and Communication
The need for clear communication and understanding within the body of Christ to prevent misunderstandings and conflicts.

Consequences of Rebellion
Recognizing that turning away from God can lead to His displeasure and consequences for the community.

Unity in Diversity
Embracing the diversity within the body of believers while maintaining unity in purpose and faith.

Bible Study Questions

1. How can we ensure that our actions align with God's will and do not lead others to misunderstand our intentions?

2. In what ways can we foster better communication and understanding within our church community to prevent conflicts?

3. How does the concept of community responsibility in Joshua 22:18 apply to the modern church?

4. What steps can we take to remain faithful to God in a world that often encourages rebellion against His commands?

5. How can we balance the diversity of individual expressions of faith with the need for unity in the body of Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 13
This chapter discusses the importance of remaining faithful to God and the consequences of idolatry, which parallels the concern in Joshua 22 about turning away from the LORD.

Numbers 32
This passage provides background on the agreement for the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh to settle east of the Jordan, highlighting their commitment to support the rest of Israel.

1 Corinthians 12
This New Testament passage speaks to the unity of the body of Christ, similar to the unity and collective responsibility emphasized in Joshua 22.

Hebrews 10
This chapter encourages believers to remain faithful and warns against willful sin, echoing the warning in Joshua 22:18 about turning away from God.