It was our idea that is introduced by Good News Translation to help made a smooth transition from the previous verse. The same effect may be gained by translating, “We built this altar so that….”

If this should ever happen may be translated “if your descendants should ever say this to our descendants.”

Verse 28 specifies that the altar built near the Jordan was just like the LORD’s altar—but it was not meant to compete with the one legitimate altar of the Lord at Shiloh.

It was not for burning offerings or for sacrifice may be translated, “They did not build it to burn offerings or sacrifice.”

But as a sign for our people and yours may be clearer if rendered, “but they built it to show that we also belong to the LORD.”

Quoted with permission from Bratcher, Robert G. and Newman, Barclay M. A Handbook on Joshua. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 1983. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .