Joshua 22:23

If we have built for ourselves an altar to turn away from Him and to offer burnt offerings and grain offerings on it, or to sacrifice fellowship offerings on it, may the LORD Himself hold us accountable.

Study Bible

If we have built for ourselves an altar
In the context of Joshua 22, the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh built an altar by the Jordan River. This act raised concerns among the other Israelite tribes, as it seemed to suggest a division in worship practices. In ancient Israel, the construction of altars was significant, as altars were central to worship and sacrifice. The Israelites were commanded to worship at the tabernacle, and later the temple, as the central place of worship (Deuteronomy 12:5-14). Building a separate altar could imply a break from the unified worship of Yahweh.

to turn away from Him
Turning away from God in the Old Testament often refers to idolatry or apostasy. The Israelites were repeatedly warned against turning to other gods (Exodus 20:3-5). The concern here is that the altar might symbolize a departure from the covenant relationship with Yahweh, which was central to Israel's identity and survival as a nation. This phrase underscores the seriousness of maintaining fidelity to God.

and to offer burnt offerings and grain offerings on it
Burnt offerings and grain offerings were integral parts of the sacrificial system established in Leviticus. Burnt offerings symbolized atonement and dedication to God (Leviticus 1), while grain offerings represented thanksgiving and devotion (Leviticus 2). Offering these sacrifices on an unauthorized altar would contravene the law and suggest a rival worship system, which was strictly forbidden (Leviticus 17:8-9).

or to sacrifice peace offerings on it
Peace offerings, described in Leviticus 3, were meant to symbolize fellowship and reconciliation with God. They were communal meals shared between the offerer, the priests, and God. Offering peace offerings on a separate altar could imply a breach in the communal worship and unity of Israel, which was meant to be centered around the tabernacle.

may the LORD Himself hold us accountable
This phrase reflects the seriousness with which the tribes viewed their covenant with God. They invoke God's judgment upon themselves if they have acted in rebellion. This reflects a deep understanding of God's sovereignty and justice, as well as a commitment to accountability before Him. It echoes the covenant curses found in Deuteronomy 28, where disobedience would lead to divine retribution. This accountability is a theme throughout Scripture, emphasizing that God is the ultimate judge of human actions (Romans 14:12).

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Eastern Tribes (Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh)
These tribes settled on the east side of the Jordan River and built an altar, which led to a misunderstanding with the other Israelite tribes.

2. The Altar of Witness
A large altar built by the Eastern tribes near the Jordan River, intended as a witness between them and the other tribes of Israel that they all serve the same God.

3. Phinehas, son of Eleazar the priest
Sent by the Israelites to confront the Eastern tribes about the altar, fearing it was a sign of rebellion against God.

4. The Jordan River
The geographical boundary that separated the Eastern tribes from the rest of Israel, symbolizing potential division.

5. The Assembly of Israel
The collective body of the remaining tribes who were concerned about the potential idolatry or rebellion represented by the altar.

Teaching Points

Unity in Worship
The altar was a potential source of division, but it was intended as a symbol of unity. In our communities, we must ensure that our practices and symbols promote unity in worship rather than division.

Intentions Matter
The Eastern tribes' intentions were misunderstood. This teaches us the importance of clear communication and understanding others' intentions before jumping to conclusions.

Accountability to God
The tribes were willing to be held accountable by God if their actions were wrong. We should also live with a mindset of accountability to God for our actions and decisions.

Avoiding Assumptions
The initial reaction of the Israelites was based on assumptions. We should be cautious about making assumptions about others' actions without seeking clarification.

Symbolic Reminders
The altar served as a reminder of their shared faith. We can use symbols and practices in our lives to remind us of our commitments to God and each other.

Bible Study Questions

1. How can we ensure that our actions and symbols in worship promote unity rather than division within our faith communities?

2. What steps can we take to better understand the intentions behind others' actions before forming judgments?

3. In what ways can we hold ourselves accountable to God in our daily lives, similar to the willingness of the Eastern tribes?

4. How can we use symbols or practices in our lives to serve as reminders of our faith and commitments to God?

5. What lessons can we learn from the Israelites' initial assumptions about the altar, and how can we apply these lessons to avoid misunderstandings in our relationships?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 12
This chapter outlines the proper place and manner of worship, emphasizing that sacrifices should only be made at the place God chooses, which is relevant to the concern over the altar.

Leviticus 17
Discusses the prohibition of offering sacrifices outside the designated place, which underscores the Israelites' fear of the altar being used improperly.

1 Samuel 15
Highlights the importance of obedience over sacrifice, which relates to the concern that the altar might represent disobedience to God's commands.