An Outsider

O. T. #493  "An Outsider"
April 2, 2015
Joshua 22-Part 3
The LORD God of gods, the LORD God of gods, He knoweth, and Israel He shall know: if it be in rebellion, or if in transgression against the LORD, (save us not this day.)  Joshua 22:22

LET IT GLOW

I don't want to be an outsider. I like being included as a part of groups, families, a church, and especially God's family of believers. Sometimes I dress differently, look differently, or even have a different opinion, but I still enjoy being a part of them. I'm probably not alone. The eastern Israelites felt the same way. (God sees and knows what is in our heart.)

Previously we discussed the assumption of the tribes east of the Jordan River, when they saw the special altar built by the 2 1/2 tribes east of the river. Here are some comments I found concerning this:

The repetition of the phrase the LORD God of gods, employs three names of God together, El, Elohim, and Jehovah (or Yahweh), each repeated twice, expresses the great horror with which the 2 1/2 tribes learned of the assumptions made by their brethren. If their intent was to rebel against Israel, they should not be saved from God's wrath. (Liberty Bible Commentary)

They feared rebellion against the Shiloh altar that served all the tribes in unity with motives to not follow the true God. (The MacArthur Bible Commentary)

The rest of Israel feared these tribes were starting their own religion and rebellion against God. (Life Application Study Bible)

What do we do when we feel like an outsider? Do we change so we are like everyone else, while compromising our beliefs? Or do we continue to remain the same, when serving God and His Word, without compromising?

LET IT GROW

The group of investigators, Phinehas the priest, princes, and head of Israel, went to the eastern tribes. Why not leave them alone?
They were following the previous instructions found in Deuteronomy 14:12-18, if a city was accused of idol worship. They were to kill the guilty, burn the city, and destroy everything. This would turn God's fierce anger away and He'd show mercy, have compassion, and multiply them.

The explanation for the altar was a  monument built east of the Jordan River by the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and 12 tribe of Manasseh:
It was not for burnt offering nor sacrifice, but a witness between the two groups and their generations to come, that they only worship and serve God. It was not for pagan sacrifice.

The investigators were well pleased with the explanation. (verse 30) They recognized the purity of heart and returned home thanking God there would be no bloody conflict.

How do we react before we hear the whole story? Do we investigate before we assume the worst?

LET IT GO

Investigate when there is a conflict.

Be an outsider when it pleases God in serving Him.

Keep on being faithful to Jesus.