“But that it may be a witness between us and you, and our generations after us, that we might do the service of the LORD before him with our burnt offerings, and with our sacrifices, and with our peace offerings; that your children may not say to our children in time to come, Ye have no part in the LORD.”
Context: In Joshua 22, we find the Israelites preparing to return to their allotted land after helping the other tribes conquer their territories. The tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh, who had received their inheritance on the east side of the Jordan River, had fulfilled their promise to fight alongside their fellow Israelites before settling down in their own land. Joshua was about to dismiss them to their territories with blessings and reminders to follow the Law of Moses faithfully.
Importance of Unity: This verse reflects the importance of unity among the tribes of Israel. The altar mentioned in the previous verses caused concern among the other tribes because they thought it was a sign of rebellion against God. However, after communication and understanding were established, the altar was revealed to be a memorial, a witness of their shared devotion to God. The intention was to maintain unity and prevent future divisions among the tribes of Israel.
The Purpose of the Altar: The verse highlights the purpose of the altar built by the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and Manasseh. The altar served as a witness between the eastern tribes and the rest of Israel, testifying that they were not building it as an alternative place of worship but rather as a symbol of their commitment to the service of the Lord. The altar was a reminder for future generations that they, too, had a part in the Lord and were connected to the rest of Israel in their worship of God.
Worship and Sacrifice: The verse mentions the various types of offerings made at the altar – burnt offerings, sacrifices, and peace offerings. These were all forms of worship and obedience to God’s commandments outlined in the Law of Moses. The people understood the importance of offering these sacrifices to express their devotion, seek forgiveness, and maintain a right relationship with God.
Passing on Faith to Future Generations: The verse emphasizes the desire of the eastern tribes to ensure that their descendants would not be excluded or misunderstood by the other tribes in the future. They wanted their children to know and remember their shared faith, affirming that they too had a part in the worship and service of the Lord. By establishing this witness and memorial, they sought to preserve the unity of Israel and prevent division among the tribes.
Key Takeaway: Joshua 22:27 teaches us about the importance of unity, communication, and understanding among believers. It reminds us to build bridges, address misunderstandings, and work towards reconciliation when conflicts arise. Additionally, it highlights the significance of passing on our faith to future generations, ensuring that they have a clear understanding of their part in the worship and service of the Lord.
Please note that interpretation and understanding of biblical verses can vary among individuals and denominations. It’s always recommended to study the Bible in its entirety and consult trusted spiritual leaders for further guidance.
