18. We will not return to our homes until every Israelite has received his own land.
19. We won’t take possession of any land on the other side of the Jordan River, to the west and beyond. We already have our land here, east of the Jordan.”
20. Moses answered, “Do what you have said. In the Lord’s presence have all your armed men get ready for battle.
21. Have them cross the Jordan, and fight until the Lord forces out his enemies
22. and the land is conquered. Then you may come back. You will have fulfilled your military duty to the Lord and Israel. This land will be your own property in the Lord’s presence.
23. “If you don’t do all these things, you will be sinning against the Lord. You can be sure that you will be punished for your sin.
24. Build cities for your families and stone fences for your flocks, but do what you have promised.”
25. Then the tribes of Gad and Reuben said to Moses, “Sir, we will do as you command.
26. Our children, our wives, our livestock, and all our other animals will stay here in the cities of Gilead.
27. But in the Lord’s presence we will all get ready for battle and go with you, as you have said.”