Throughout history, division has often threatened God’s people. Whether through misunderstandings, cultural differences, or even well-intentioned zeal, separation can lead to conflict. Joshua 22 presents a powerful story of potential division between the tribes of Israel and how it was resolved through understanding, truth, and ultimately, peace. This foreshadows the work of Jesus, who, as Ephesians 2:14 declares, is our peace—breaking down the walls of hostility and uniting us as one.
The Context of Joshua 22
After years of conquest in the Promised Land, the two-and-a-half tribes—Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh—returned to their inheritance on the east side of the Jordan River. Before departing, Joshua blessed them and reminded them to remain faithful to the Lord (Joshua 22:1-6). However, as soon as they arrived in their land, they built a large altar near the Jordan.
This act alarmed the rest of Israel. To them, it seemed like an act of rebellion—perhaps a breakaway from the worship of Yahweh, similar to past apostasies that had brought judgment on Israel. Thus, the rest of the tribes prepared for war against their eastern brothers (Joshua 22:12).
Reconciliation Through Truth and Peace
Instead of launching immediately into conflict, Israel first sent a delegation led by Phinehas the priest to investigate. They confronted the eastern tribes, assuming the worst and warning them against turning from the Lord (Joshua 22:13-20). However, the eastern tribes explained that the altar was not for sacrifices, but rather a witness—a symbol to ensure that future generations would recognize their shared faith in Yahweh (Joshua 22:21-29).
Upon hearing this, Phinehas and the other leaders rejoiced. They saw that their brothers had not rebelled but were acting out of love and concern for future unity. The potential war was averted, and peace was restored (Joshua 22:30-34).
Jesus: The Bridge of Reconciliation
This moment in Israel’s history foreshadows the reconciling work of Jesus Christ. Like the Jordan River that divided the tribes, sin has divided humanity—separating us from God and from one another. But Jesus came to break down the walls of division and establish peace.
Ephesians 2:14-16 proclaims:
“For He Himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, by setting aside in His flesh the law with its commands and regulations. His purpose was to create in Himself one new humanity out of the two, thus making peace, and in one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which He put to death their hostility.”
The tribes of Israel could have descended into war due to misunderstanding and assumption. But through dialogue and truth, peace was established. Likewise, Jesus, our mediator, steps into the midst of our divisions, offering reconciliation with God and uniting believers as one body—the Church.
Lessons for Today
Joshua 22 provides timeless lessons on unity, communication, and reconciliation:
- Assume the Best, Seek Understanding – The western tribes assumed rebellion, but peace was preserved because they sought clarity first. In our relationships, we should avoid jumping to conclusions and instead seek to understand others before reacting.
- Christ is Our True Altar – The eastern tribes built an altar as a witness, but Jesus is our ultimate altar (Hebrews 13:10). Through Him, we have access to God, and our unity is found in Him.
- Peace Comes Through Mediation – Just as Phinehas mediated between the tribes, Jesus is our ultimate mediator (1 Timothy 2:5), bringing reconciliation between God and man, and between one another.
Conclusion
Joshua 22 ends with the altar being named Witness because it stood as a testimony to the unity of God’s people. Likewise, the cross of Christ is the greatest witness of all—it proclaims that through Jesus, we are united as one family, no longer divided by hostility but bound together in His peace.
As we live out our faith today, let us remember that Jesus is our peace. In a world full of division, we are called to be peacemakers, breaking down walls and pointing others to the One who unites us all.
