16. But the people from the tribes of Reuben and Gad went to Moses. They said, “We will build cities for our children and barns for our animals here.
17. Then our children can be safe from the other people who live in this land. But we will gladly come and help the other Israelites. We will bring them to their land.
18. We will not come back home until everyone in Israel has taken his part of the land.
19. We will not take any of the land west of the Jordan River. No, our part of the land is east of the Jordan River.”
20. So Moses told them, “If you do all these things, this land will belong to you. But your soldiers must go before the Lord into battle.
21. Your soldiers must cross the Jordan River and be ready to fight for the Lord until he forces the enemy to leave.
22. After the Lord helps us all take the land, you can go back home. Then the Lord and Israel will not think that you are guilty. And the Lord will let you have this land.
23. But if you don’t do these things, you will be sinning against the Lord. And know for sure that you will be punished for your sin.
24. Build cities for your children and barns for your animals. But then, you must do what you promised.”