Main Highlights
The eastern tribes, returning to their lands east of the Jordan, build an altar that is misinterpreted by the western tribes as an act of rebellion against God. A potential civil war is averted when the eastern tribes clarify that the altar is a memorial, not for sacrifice.
Key Verses
When they came to the region near the Jordan, that is, in the land of Canaan, the people of Reuben and the people of Gad and the half-tribe of Manasseh built there an altar by the Jordan, an altar of great size."— Joshua 22:10
Related Scripture
And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near."— Hebrews 10:24-25
Scholar Insight
"The unity of God's people is a constant theme in the Old Testament, and it is especially important in the book of Joshua. The altar incident in chapter 22 threatens to destroy that unity, but the wise and humble response of the western tribes prevents a civil war." - David Howard, An Introduction to the Old Testament Historical Books (Moody Press, 1993), p. 174."
Theological Analysis
What we learn about God
We learn about God's desire for unity and peace among his people. God is a God of understanding. "For God is not a God of confusion but of peace." (1 Corinthians 14:33)
Christological Connection
While not explicit, the potential for division foreshadows the need for a mediator (Jesus) to reconcile humanity to God and to each other. "For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus." (1 Timothy 2:5)
Systematic Theology
Ecclesiology - the doctrine of the church and its unity. "So we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another." (Romans 12:5)
Law & Grace
The western tribes initially approached the altar with a legalistic mindset, assuming guilt and rebellion (law). The grace element comes in the willingness to hear the explanation and seek understanding before judgment. "For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ." (John 1:17)
Personal Application
Be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger (James 1:19). Seek understanding before judging others, especially within the Christian community.