“A Warning: Do Not Quarrel On The Way”

Sunday, June 14, 2015

“Then he sent them on their way, and as they departed, he said to them, ‘Do not quarrel on the way.’”  (Gen. 45:25, ESV)

That simple admonition Joseph gave to his brothers is an appropriate warning to any group of people on a journey together. Bands who tour together often break up when they quarrel on the way. Sports teams often struggle on the field when the quarrel on the road between games. And military troops who are not at peace with each other in their journey often find an extra element of danger in combat because of their lack of unity.

But God’s people are perhaps the greatest example of this. Jesus said that we will be known as disciples because we love each other. But the Holy Spirit later spoke to a church who was not living that principle. “I appeal to you, brothers, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree, and that there be no divisions among you… for it has been reported to me by Chloe’s people that there is quarreling among you” (1 Cor. 1:10-11).

Satan is the master of dividing and conquering. He hunts like a ravenous lion—isolating the sick and weak for an easier kill. He creates dissidence, discord, and distance between us. And soon, individual members begin to separate from the group, walking directly into his clutches.

Joseph’s instruction to his brothers was more than a passing farewell. It embodied a grand principle which would keep them safe on the journey back to their father in the promised land. There is safety in numbers.

As God’s people, we are travelers. The holy scriptures remind us that we are strangers on this earth. Our home is with our Father in the promised land of rest. Let’s heed the warning of Joseph—the warning that Jesus echoed when he taught us to love one another. Let us do our very best to live at peace with our brothers and sisters. Let us be sure that as we make this journey toward God’s presence, that we do not quarrel on the way.

- Dan Lankford

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