Young- EDUC 746 - Biblical Critique 2
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BIBLICAL CRITIQUE: ISRAELITES
1
Biblical Critique: Israelites
Whitney Young-Magee
School of Education, Liberty University
Author Note
Whitney Young-Magee
I have no known conflict of interest to disclose.
Correspondence concerning this article should be addressed to Whitney Young-Magee
Email: wnyoung1@liberty.edu
BIBLICAL CRITIQUE: IRAELITES
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Biblical Critique: [Character]
The opening of Joshua 22 marks a pivotal moment in the biblical narrative, where Joshua,
the leader of the Israelites, releases the Reubenites, Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh from
their military service among their fellow Israelites. In recognition of their faithful service, Joshua
bestows upon them the freedom to return to their ancestral lands and great wealth. However, this
release comes with a profound charge: to remain unwavering in their commitment, love, and
obedience to the Lord and His divine laws. Following the instructions of Moses, these tribes
journey back to Gilead to claim their allotted territories. Yet, upon their arrival, they undertake a
significant action – the construction of an altar. This act is intended as a visible testament to
God's presence and guidance, serving as a timeless reminder for future generations to follow in
the path of righteousness.
However, the news of this altar in Gilead reaches the Israelites in Shiloh, leading them to
interpret it as an act of rebellion against God. Preparations for war ensue, reflecting the gravity of
the situation. Yet, what unfolds is not conflict but resolution. The Reubenites, Gadites, and the
half-tribe of Manasseh clarify their intentions – the altar is not meant for offerings but as a
safeguard for their children and a mark of reverence to God.
This resolution proves acceptable to both parties, and the altar is named Ed, symbolizing
God's enduring presence across the lands of Israel and Jordan. In this complex narrative, themes
of faithfulness, commitment, and the potential for misunderstanding take center stage, offering
valuable insights for biblical critique and reflection.
Fact
Verses
1. Joshua summoned the Reubenites, Gadites,
Joshua 22:1
BIBLICAL CRITIQUE: IRAELITES
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and the half-tribe of Manasseh.
2. He commended them for obeying both
Moses and himself.
Joshua 22:2
3. These tribes had remained loyal to their
fellow Israelites.
Joshua 22:3
4. God had fulfilled His promise by granting
their brothers rest.
Joshua 22:4
5. They were allowed to return to their
allotted lands east of the Jordan.
Joshua 22:4
6. Joshua emphasized the importance of
obeying God's commandments.
Joshua 22: 5
7. He blessed them before they departed.
Joshua 22:6
8. The half-tribe of Manasseh received their
inheritance.
Joshua 22:7
9. They built an altar by the Jordan, causing
concern among the other Israelites
Joshua 22:10-11
10.
Phinehas, accompanied by chieftains,
questioned the tribes about their actions
Joshua 22: 13-14
Reflect
What do you see in the passage that relates
to God’s character, man’s character, or
Jesus?
Verses
God’s character
God blesses His people for their
unwavering faith, love, and diligent
fulfillment of their responsibilities. You
have remained steadfast in supporting your
fellow brethren throughout this extended
period, demonstrating your commitment to
Joshua 22: 3-4
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BIBLICAL CRITIQUE: IRAELITES
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carrying out the commandments of the
Lord your God. As a result, the Lord your
God has graciously granted your brothers
the rest they deserved.
Man’s character
The people of Israel's disbelief in God's
guidance:
Upon learning of the altar's existence, the
entire assembly of the Israelites gathered at
Shiloh, preparing for a confrontation in
battle.
What is the nature of this disloyal action
you have committed against the God of
Israel?
Joshua 22: 12
Joshua 22: 16
Jesus
Jesus pardons individuals for holding
resentment against others in accordance
with God's teachings:
The message found favor among the
Israelites, and they offered blessings to
God. They no longer discussed the idea of
launching a battle to annihilate the land.
Joshua 22: 33
Respond
In Joshua 22, we witness a demonstration of faithfulness, dedication, and the rewards
received by the Reubenites, Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh in their adherence to God's
guidance. God's capacity to instill love and fulfillment in His children is evident through His
BIBLICAL CRITIQUE: IRAELITES
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teachings, as expressed in the Bible verse: "Follow all the commands of the Lord your God, so
that you may live, prosper, and enjoy a long life in the land you will possess" (Deuteronomy
5:33, New American Standard Version, 1995). God expects His children to uphold His
commandments and follow His laws, and in recognition of their obedience, the Reubenites,
Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh were rewarded with wealth and land. In return, Joshua
reminds them to remain committed to God's guidance. These faithful actions of His children are
reflected in their construction of an altar in His honor.
The creation of this altar by the Reubenites, Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh
serves as evidence of their obedience to God and serves as a reminder to future generations to
uphold the same commitment. As the Bible states, "When a man makes a vow to the Lord or
binds himself with an oath, he must not break his word but must do everything he said"
(Numbers 30:2, New American Standard Version, 1995). Conflict arises when the Israelites
perceive the construction of the altar as an indication of false prophecies and offerings, leading
them to consider waging war against these tribes, assuming that they are going against God's
will. Viewing others in a negative light fosters negativity in thoughts, emotions, and actions,
often resulting in an escalating conflict (Barsky, 2017). The Israelites' initial mindset favored war
over dialogue when encountering the tribes' altar.
However, when approached by the Israelites with their concerns, the tribes effectively
resolve the conflict through open communication. This dialogue allowed both parties to navigate
the stages of conflict resolution amicably and without loss of life. The Israelites'
misinterpretation provided an opportunity for the tribes to showcase their faith, obedience, and
BIBLICAL CRITIQUE: IRAELITES
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understanding of God's teachings to achieve conflict resolution. This approach was well-received
and led to a peaceful resolution for both sides. The foundation of this resolution lies in God's
divine will, which seeks His children's love, honor, and obedience to His commandments,
promising prosperity and growth in the lands He has provided.
In the context of modern society, it can be challenging to uphold these vows of obedience
to God amidst issues like mass shootings, pandemics, and socioeconomic challenges. Personally,
I engage in daily prayer to prioritize God and follow His teachings, aiming to navigate the trials
of today with dedication, mindfulness, and service to God. The ability to transcend current
troubles demands unwavering commitment, observance, and devotion to God. The Bible
emphasizes, "You must follow the Lord your God and fear Him, keep His commands and obey
Him, serve Him, and hold fast to Him" (Deuteronomy 13:4, New American Standard Version,
1995), underscoring the importance of placing God's will at the forefront of our lives in the face
of adversity.
Conclusion
The lesson from Joshua 22 serves as a constant reminder to prioritize God above all else,
regardless of the challenges that life may present. It underscores that resolving conflicts is rooted
in adhering to His commandments, embracing His teachings, and demonstrating unwavering
commitment to our fellow human beings. When addressing conflicts, taking a comprehensive
approach that fosters open communication among all parties, transcends cultural differences, and
works toward enduring objectives is essential. Joshua 22, as well as our contemporary society,
attests to God's unwavering presence, assuring us that with faith, compassion, and obedience, we
can overcome any obstacle and achieve our goals.
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References
Barsky, A. (2017). Conflict resolution for the helping professions : Negotiation, mediation,
advocacy, facilitation, and restorative justice. Oxford University Press, Incorporated.
New American Standard Bible. (1995). New American Standard Bible Online.
https://www.bible.com/versions/100-nasb-new-american-standard-bible/ (Original work
published 1960)