Leadership

 Those to camp on the east side toward the sunrise shall be of the standard of the camp of Judah by their companies, the chief of the people of Judah being Nahshon the son of Amminadab,
Numbers 2:3 ESV
https://bible.com/bible/59/num.2.3.ESV

Why was Judah on the east side of the tabernacle within the people of God? Firstly, he was the strongest tribe and the Israelites were heading east, so if any opposition was met, Judah would be first to meet it. We need strong leadership.

Secondly, Judah was the tribe of promise. Jesus is the Lion of the tribe of Judah who leads His people to the promised new creation. We need to follow Him.

Thirdly, and similarly, they travelled towards the sunrise- they were eagerly waiting the revelation of their leonine champion. If we're eagerly and expectantly awaiting the return of Christ, we're at the forefront of the people of God. He should be foremost in our minds.

Finally, if Christ is central to our tribe within the tribal/denominational church of Christ, we will be leaders amongst the people of God. Churches that thrive are churches that preach Christ crucified at the heart of all they do. Too many churches fail to make the main thing the main thing.

'Almighty Lord, may we follow You with single-minded devotion. Please help us to keep Christ crucified at the forefront of our minds- the Lamb who was slain for us- the Lion of the tribe of Judah, in whose name we pray, amen'

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