Joshua 22:29

Far be it from us to rebel against the LORD and turn away from Him today by building an altar for burnt offerings, grain offerings, or sacrifices, other than the altar of the LORD our God, which stands before His tabernacle."

Study Bible

Far be it from us
This phrase is a strong expression of rejection or denial. In Hebrew, the phrase is "חָלִילָה לָּנוּ" (chalilah lanu), which conveys a sense of abhorrence or something that is unthinkable. It reflects the deep commitment of the Israelites to remain faithful to God and His commandments. This phrase is often used in the Old Testament to express a strong moral or ethical stance, indicating that the speaker is distancing themselves from an action or thought that is considered wrong or offensive.

to rebel against the LORD
The word "rebel" in Hebrew is "מָרוֹד" (marod), which means to revolt or rise up against authority. In the context of the Israelites, rebelling against the LORD would mean turning away from His commandments and covenant. Historically, the Israelites were chosen as God's people, and their identity was deeply tied to their obedience to Him. Rebellion would not only be a personal sin but a communal breach of their covenant relationship with God.

and turn away from following the LORD
The phrase "turn away" is translated from the Hebrew "לָשׁוּב מֵאַחֲרֵי" (lashuv me'acharei), which implies a physical and spiritual departure. In the biblical narrative, following the LORD is synonymous with walking in His ways and adhering to His laws. Turning away would signify a deliberate choice to abandon the path of righteousness and the blessings that come with it. This phrase underscores the importance of steadfastness in faith and the dangers of spiritual apostasy.

by building an altar
Building an altar in ancient Israel was a significant act, often associated with worship and sacrifice. However, the construction of unauthorized altars was strictly forbidden, as it could lead to idolatry or false worship. The Israelites were commanded to worship at the designated place, the Tabernacle, and later the Temple in Jerusalem. This phrase highlights the potential for religious practices to deviate from God's instructions, emphasizing the need for adherence to divine ordinances.

for burnt offerings, grain offerings, or sacrifices
These offerings were central to the worship practices of the Israelites, each with specific purposes and regulations as outlined in the Torah. Burnt offerings (Hebrew: "עוֹלָה" - olah) were made for atonement, grain offerings (Hebrew: "מִנְחָה" - minchah) were expressions of devotion, and sacrifices (Hebrew: "זֶבַח" - zevach) often involved communal meals and thanksgiving. The mention of these offerings underscores the seriousness of the act of building an altar, as it pertains to the core of Israelite worship and their covenant relationship with God.

other than the altar of the LORD our God
This phrase emphasizes the exclusivity and sanctity of the altar designated by God. The "altar of the LORD" refers to the central place of worship where God had chosen to make His presence known among His people. It was a symbol of unity and divine authority. By specifying "other than," the verse reinforces the prohibition against unauthorized worship practices and the importance of maintaining the purity of worship as commanded by God.

which stands before His tabernacle
The tabernacle was the portable dwelling place of God among the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness. It was the center of worship and the place where God's presence was manifested. The phrase "stands before His tabernacle" indicates the rightful place for offerings and sacrifices, as ordained by God. It serves as a reminder of God's provision and guidance, and the need for the Israelites to honor His established order for worship.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Eastern Tribes (Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh)
These tribes were given land on the east side of the Jordan River and were returning to their inheritance after helping the other tribes conquer the land west of the Jordan.

2. Phinehas, son of Eleazar the priest
He was sent by the Israelites to confront the Eastern tribes about the altar they built, fearing it was an act of rebellion against God.

3. The Altar of Witness
The altar built by the Eastern tribes near the Jordan River, intended as a witness between them and the other Israelites that they all serve the same God.

4. The Tabernacle
The central place of worship for the Israelites, where the altar of the LORD was located, signifying the proper place for sacrifices and offerings.

5. The Land of Canaan
The Promised Land west of the Jordan River, where the majority of the Israelite tribes settled.

Teaching Points

Unity in Worship
The altar was a symbol of unity among the tribes, reminding us of the importance of maintaining unity in our worship practices today.

Guarding Against Idolatry
The Israelites' concern over the altar reflects the need to guard against idolatry and ensure our worship aligns with God's commands.

Zeal for God's Honor
Phinehas' involvement shows the importance of being zealous for God's honor and purity in worship, a trait we should emulate.

Communication and Understanding
The resolution of the conflict through dialogue highlights the importance of communication and understanding in resolving disputes within the faith community.

Witness to Future Generations
The altar served as a witness to future generations, reminding us of the importance of leaving a legacy of faithfulness to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the construction of the altar by the Eastern tribes serve as a reminder of the importance of unity in worship among believers today?

2. In what ways can we guard against idolatry in our personal and communal worship practices?

3. How can we demonstrate zeal for God's honor in our daily lives, similar to Phinehas' actions?

4. What lessons can we learn from the resolution of the conflict between the tribes about the importance of communication and understanding in the church?

5. How can we ensure that our faith and worship serve as a witness to future generations, as the altar was intended to be for the Israelites?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 12
This chapter emphasizes the importance of worshiping God in the place He chooses, which connects to the concern over unauthorized altars.

Numbers 25
Phinehas is previously noted for his zeal in maintaining the purity of Israel's worship, which is relevant to his role in addressing the altar issue.

1 Kings 12
The account of Jeroboam setting up unauthorized altars in Bethel and Dan, illustrating the dangers of deviating from God's prescribed worship.