The Danger Of Assumptions
The danger of assumptions is found in Joshua 22:10-34. After God’s promised land was distributed among Israel, the tribes of Rueben, Gad, and half-tribe of Manassah stopped on the way into their land and built a large alter. The other tribes assumed it was for worshipping other gods and prepared for war against them. Here are lessons from the story.
The danger of assumptions. God calls us to unified godliness
Now therefore, if you will indeed obey my voice and keep my covenant, you shall be my treasured possession among all peoples, for all the earth is mine; and you shall be to me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation. (Exodus 19:5-6)
God called Israel his treasured possession as part of a covenant. That is, an agreement where both sides keep up their end. Israel obeys God’s voice. And God makes them a kingdom of priests and a holy nation. Oh, and he also delivers the promised land.
Israel is now collecting on that promise. After leaving Egypt, wandering in the wilderness 40 years and finally defeating all their enemies, the promised land is theirs to inhabit. But wait. What’s going on with the tribes of Rueben, Gad, and half-tribe of Manassah? On the way in to settle their alloted land, they stop to build a large alter.
The other tribes were appalled. ARE YOU GUYS CRAZY? You’ll get us all in trouble!
Ever been there? Out with friends and suddenly one or two do something stupid? And if caught you’re all in trouble. Even though it wasn’t your idea and you didn’t participate.
That’s what the other tribes were thinking. They assumed the three tribes were building an alter to another god. Strictly forbidden by the Lord God Almighty. And he would punish all of them for it. So in a huff, they gathered and prepared for war against their brothers.
But we are not so different, even today. God also calls us to unity as brothers and sisters in Christ. However, we are still sinners and often confuse God’s will with our own agenda. And when other Christ-followers disagree it causes division. And even well meaning ideas are misunderstood. But unity comes through humility, truth, and covenant faithfulness. It requires prayer, thoughtful discussion, and genuinely seeking God’s will.
The danger of assumptions. Seek clarification
What is this breach of faith that you have committed against the God of Israel in turning away this day from following the Lord by building yourselves an altar this day in rebellion against the Lord? (ESV, Joshua 22:16)
Before the other tribes of Israel attacked, someone had a sensible thought. Maybe they should first clarify the intentions for the alter. So a group went to ask and learned it was a misunderstanding. The tribes of Rueben, Gad, and half-tribe of Manassah did not build it to worship another god. But intended it as a memorial. A reminder and witness of their commitment to the God of Israel.
Tension dissipated as they filled with relief at the averted disaster. A frequent occurence when assumptions jump to conclusions followed by emotional, rash actions.
And the truth is, the bad we assume in others comes from our own sinful thoughts and desires. And our reactions are often ungodly and unjustified. Instead, our first response should give others the benefit of the doubt. This avoids unneeded conflicts and promotes unity and harmony with others.
But what if the assumption is correct? That’s when humility, grace, prayer, and even tempered dialogue should take place in a godly fashion.
The danger of assumptions. Christ-followers who worship and pray together, stay together.
But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. (ESV, 1 Peter 2:9)
Because Jesus Christ died for our sins, now, all who profess him as Savior and Lord also become part of the royal priesthood and God’s special possession. And as Christ-followers, gather as the New Testament church to worship God and celebrate victory over the bondage of sin.
But we still sin. So while we pursue godly righteousness, we still battle our sinful, human nature. Therefore, even as brothers and sisters in Christ, we disagree, sometimes argue, fight, and feud. And navigate the misunderstandings that result from assumptions.
There is no simple formula for avoiding all church conflicts. But the best prevention is regular, individual, and corporate connection with God’s Spirit through genuine worship and regular prayer. Adding, “I’m sorry” and “You’re forgiven” will also foster spiritual unity.
As we seek to honor God and walk together in faith.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview. This blog is originally published here.
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