Joshua 22:27

Rather, let it be a witness between us and you and the generations to come, that we will worship the LORD in His presence with our burnt offerings, sacrifices, and peace offerings.' Then in the future, your descendants cannot say to ours, 'You have no share in the LORD!'

Study Bible

Rather, let it be a witness between us and you and the generations to come
This phrase highlights the importance of establishing a lasting testimony or memorial. In the context of Joshua 22, the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh built an altar as a witness to their shared faith with the other tribes of Israel. This act was meant to prevent future disputes about their allegiance to the LORD. Biblically, the concept of a "witness" is significant, as seen in Genesis 31:44-48, where Jacob and Laban set up a stone pillar as a witness to their covenant. The idea of a generational witness underscores the importance of passing down faith and traditions, as emphasized in Deuteronomy 6:6-7.

that we will worship the LORD in His presence with our burnt offerings, sacrifices, and peace offerings.
Worship in the Old Testament often involved specific offerings, each with distinct purposes. Burnt offerings symbolized atonement and dedication to God (Leviticus 1), sacrifices were acts of worship and thanksgiving (Leviticus 3), and peace offerings represented fellowship with God. The phrase "in His presence" indicates the centrality of worshiping where God has chosen to dwell, which at that time was the tabernacle in Shiloh. This reflects the broader biblical theme of God's presence among His people, a precursor to the New Testament revelation of God dwelling among us through Jesus Christ (John 1:14).

Then in the future, your descendants cannot say to ours, ‘You have no share in the LORD!’
This phrase addresses the concern of future alienation or division among the tribes. The altar served as a physical reminder of their shared heritage and covenant with God. The fear of being told "You have no share in the LORD" reflects the deep desire for unity and inclusion within the covenant community. This concern for unity is echoed in the New Testament, where believers are reminded of their unity in Christ (Ephesians 4:4-6). The altar as a witness is a type of Christ, who is the ultimate mediator and unifier of God's people, ensuring that all who believe have a share in the promises of God (Galatians 3:28-29).

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 as a witness.

2. The Altar of Witness
Constructed by the Eastern tribes as a symbol of unity and shared faith with the rest of Israel, not for sacrifices but as a testimony.

3. Phinehas, son of Eleazar the priest
Sent by the Israelites to confront the Eastern tribes, ensuring their actions were not rebellious against God.

4. The Land of Canaan
The primary land of the Israelites, west of the Jordan River, where the rest of the tribes resided.

5. The Jordan River
A geographical and symbolic boundary between the Eastern tribes and the rest of Israel.

Teaching Points

Unity in Faith
The altar served as a reminder of the unity among the tribes despite geographical separation. Christians today should strive for unity in faith, transcending denominational and cultural boundaries.

Witness to Future Generations
The altar was a testimony for future generations. Believers are called to live in such a way that their faith is evident and instructive to those who come after them.

Avoiding Misunderstandings
The initial conflict arose from a misunderstanding. Christians should seek clarity and understanding in their communications to prevent unnecessary conflicts.

Symbolic Acts of Faith
The altar was a symbolic act to demonstrate faithfulness to God. Believers can use symbols, such as baptism and communion, to express and reinforce their faith.

Guarding Against Idolatry
The concern over the altar was rooted in a fear of idolatry. Christians must remain vigilant against modern forms of idolatry, ensuring their worship remains pure and directed to God alone.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the construction of the altar by the Eastern tribes reflect their commitment to God, and how can we demonstrate our commitment in similar ways today?

2. In what ways can misunderstandings among believers lead to conflict, and how can we apply biblical principles to resolve them?

3. How does the concept of a "witness" in Joshua 22:27 relate to the role of Christians as witnesses to the world today?

4. What are some modern "altars" or symbols in your life that serve as reminders of your faith and commitment to God?

5. How can the unity of the tribes of Israel, despite their geographical separation, inspire unity among Christians across different cultures and denominations today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 12
Discusses the centralization of worship and the importance of worshiping God in the designated place, which relates to the concern over the altar built by the Eastern tribes.

Exodus 20
The Ten Commandments, particularly the command against idolatry, which underpins the concern of the Israelites regarding the altar.

Hebrews 10
Speaks of the new covenant and the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, which can be seen as a fulfillment of the sacrificial system the altar was meant to witness.