Joshua 22:24

But in fact we have done this for fear that in the future your descendants might say to ours, 'What have you to do with the LORD, the God of Israel?

Study Bible

But in fact we have done this for fear
This phrase indicates a proactive measure taken by the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh. Their actions were motivated by a concern for future generations, highlighting the importance of foresight and the preservation of faith. This reflects a common biblical theme where actions are taken to ensure the continuity of worship and adherence to God's commandments, as seen in Deuteronomy 6:6-9, where the Israelites are instructed to teach God's laws to their children.

that in the future your descendants might say to ours
The concern here is intergenerational communication and the potential for division among the tribes of Israel. This reflects the historical context of the Israelites, who were a confederation of tribes with distinct territories. The fear of future misunderstanding underscores the importance of unity and shared identity among God's people, as emphasized in Psalm 133:1, which speaks of the goodness of brethren dwelling together in unity.

‘What have you to do with the LORD,
This question anticipates a challenge to the legitimacy of the eastern tribes' relationship with God. It highlights the centrality of the LORD in the identity of the Israelites and the potential for geographical separation to lead to spiritual estrangement. The phrase echoes the concern for maintaining a covenant relationship with God, as seen in the warnings against idolatry and apostasy in Deuteronomy 13:1-4.

the God of Israel?’
This title for God emphasizes His covenant relationship with the entire nation of Israel. It serves as a reminder of the collective identity of the tribes as God's chosen people, bound by the covenant made with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The use of this title reinforces the idea that despite physical separation, all tribes are united under the worship of the one true God, as seen in the Shema, Deuteronomy 6:4, which declares the LORD as the one God of Israel.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Reubenites, Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh
These tribes settled on the east side of the Jordan River and built an altar as a witness between them and the other Israelites.

2. Jordan River
A significant geographical boundary that separated the eastern tribes from the rest of Israel, symbolizing potential division.

3. Altar of Witness
Constructed by the eastern tribes as a testimony to their shared faith and heritage with the western tribes, not for sacrifices.

4. Phinehas
The son of Eleazar the priest, who led the delegation to investigate the altar, ensuring it was not for idolatry.

5. Israelite Assembly
The collective body of the western tribes who initially misunderstood the purpose of the altar and prepared for conflict.

Teaching Points

Unity in Diversity
The eastern tribes' actions remind us of the importance of maintaining unity within the body of Christ, even when geographical or cultural differences exist.

Communication and Understanding
Misunderstandings can lead to conflict; open communication is essential to resolve potential divisions within the church.

Fear of Future Generations
The concern for future generations' faithfulness to God is a reminder to invest in teaching and preserving the faith for those who come after us.

Symbolic Actions
The altar served as a physical reminder of spiritual truths, encouraging us to use symbols and traditions to reinforce our faith and identity in Christ.

Peacemaking
Phinehas and the delegation exemplify the role of peacemakers, who seek to understand and reconcile differences within the community of believers.

Bible Study Questions

1. How can we ensure that our actions today positively impact the faith of future generations, as the eastern tribes intended with the altar?

2. In what ways can we promote unity within our church or community, especially when faced with potential divisions?

3. How can we apply the principle of open communication to resolve misunderstandings in our personal relationships?

4. What are some modern "altars" or symbols that can help us remember and reinforce our faith in God?

5. How can we act as peacemakers in our communities, following the example of Phinehas and the delegation?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 12
Discusses the centralization of worship and the prohibition of unauthorized altars, which is relevant to the concern of the western tribes.

Ephesians 2
Speaks of unity in Christ, breaking down dividing walls, which parallels the eastern tribes' desire to maintain unity with their brethren.

Psalm 133
Celebrates the beauty of unity among God's people, reflecting the ultimate goal of the eastern tribes' actions.