Joshua 22:1-8 – A Gracious Commendation

Look back at 1:12-18, where today’s passage relates to. There Joshua had charged the Israelites who had settled on the east of the Jordan – the Reubenites, the Gadites and half of Manasseh – to send their fighting men over into Canaan and to assist their brothers in conquering their territory (see 1:14, 15). The two-and-a-half ‘East of Jordan’ tribes had obeyed and now Joshua commended them: “You have kept all that Moses … commanded you and have obeyed my voice … You have not forsaken your brothers”.

We have seen many failings in the people of God as we have studied through Joshua this far, but this passage shows us how beautiful obedience is. It reminds all of God’s people that obedience really is an option! Choosing to obey, choosing not to sin, is an option available to us in every choice we face. “My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin” (1 John 2:1). The people of God know all too well the grip and domination of sin, and sometimes in our struggle with sin we can wearily come to think that we are always doomed to lose the fight. But sin will not lord it over us, for we are under the influence of the King of Grace (see Rom. 6:14). Obedience is beautiful.

We should notice too that Joshua takes the time to commend these tribes. This is a lesson for pastors, elders, deacons and all who serve in the church. It’s easy to be negative – to know the people who are hard work, to see the gaps or the problems in the congregation, to be aware of the difficulties. But there are those who are thoughtful and conscientious in checking on others; there are those who are upholding a steadfast witness; there are those who encourage other believers in times of trial. These people can gain fresh heart from a member or friend expressing gratitude for their labour done in love.