A witness to All Generations

Joshua 22:21–34
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The Israelite delegation was soon to learn that their suspicions were wrong. Instead of responding in anger the eastern tribes hastened to explain their reason for building the altar. It was not for the purpose of sacrifice (v. 23). The eastern tribes realized the validity of the altar in Shiloh. They were not trying to compete with it, nor substituting another place of worship for the one God had ordained. In fact, their purpose was precisely the opposite (v. 26).

These two- and one-half tribes were only desirous of maintaining the unity of Israel through the erection of the altar. They explained their concern that being separated by many miles from Shiloh, their next generation might begin to wonder whether they were an integral part of Israel. At the same time, the new generations in the west might begin to consider them as outcasts. The altar would be a constant visible remin­der of the altar at Shiloh and promote a challenge to maintain religious harmony unity within the nation for years to come. This explanation by the eastern tribes was accepted by Phinehas and his delegation and thus by the Western tribes (vv. 30-31).

A war was averted, and a happy ending came to this grave crisis. The unity of the nation seemed assured. This incident simply illustrates certain prin­ciples that were vital to Israel living together in the land harmoniously. Our actions need to demonstrate to our children and grandchildren our reliance on God and remind them of what He has done for us, just as the altar the Israelites built as a reminder for their next generation (v. 27).

Application

The same principles apply to me as a member of God’s family today. How do I rate myself on a scale of 1-10 (10 being excellent)?

1. Zealous for purity (Jude 3).

2. Judging motives purely by circumstances.

3. Being concerned for the next generation.