When someone wrongly criticized us, we can be as forgiving as Moses when we let God guide our hearts. The Book of Numbers - YouTube A road-trip gone bad. Breaking a promise could ruin a person's relationship with God, as well as his or her peers. We know we should do one thing, but we do the opposite. Twelve rods, one from each tribal family, were placed in the tabernacle, but only Aaron’s rod miraculously produced buds, blossoms and even ripe almonds to demonstrate God’s support (Numbers 17:8). If we make a commitment, God expects us to keep it. “Numbers, therefore, is not a mere bit of ancient history but … it is a complex story of unfaithfulness, rebellion, apostasy, and frustration, set against a background of God’s faithfulness, presence, provision, and forbearance” (William LaSor, David Hubbard and Frederic Bush, Old Testament Survey, p. 99). How Should a Christian Deal With the Coronavirus Pandemic? This summary of the book of Numbers provides information about the title, author(s), date of writing, chronology, theme, theology, outline, a brief overview, and the chapters of the Book of Numbers. It was a … Unbelievably, the very next day the people complained against Moses and Aaron, and Moses had to again intercede on their behalf. Most of the events of the Book of Numbers take place in the wilderness, between the second and fortieth years of the wandering of the Israelites. Phinnahs knew about Zimri's sin and was angry, so he did what God had said to do to those who had committed this sin. Sign up to receive the week's latest articles, blog posts and updates. The apostle Paul referred to this incident and others with a warning that we should not follow the bad example of the sinning, murmuring, complaining and griping Israelites (1 Corinthians 10:10-11). God's people had learned some hard lessons since their parents had crossed the Red Sea forty years ago. For further study, read the articles in the section: “The Practical and Priceless Benefits of Bible Study.”. Below are a few examples: Chapter 1: Numbering (census) of the people. They lacked faith in God’s power and might to fulfill His promises, and they feared human beings more than Him (Numbers 13:28). The Israelites moved from Kadesh to the plains of Moab in chapter 20. Lesson 34 - Chapters 32 and 33 . Numbers contains many spiritual and moral lessons, and it is a book of testing and faith. He mercifully forgives us again and again. When Zimri worshiped a Moabite god, he directly opposed the Lord. The Israelites' disobedience and lack of faith caused God to make them wander in the desert until all the people of that generation had died--with a few important exceptions. As we enter a new book of Torah, there are always some preliminaries to deal with so that we can approach things in proper perspective. Print subscriptions available in U.S., Canada and Europe, Article URL: https://lifehopeandtruth.com/bible/holy-bible/old-testament/the-pentateuch/numbers/, The Practical and Priceless Benefits of Bible Study. It seems they were more specifically targeting the priesthood. These battles are wonderful examples of how God continually fights for his people in all circumstances. Authorship: The first 5 book of the Bible, called the Law, of which Numbers is the fourth, are ascribed to Moses throughout Scripture (Joshua 8:31; 2 Kings 14:6; Neh. They lacked gratitude despite God’s providing for their daily needs. Commentary and Background Information. They had faith in God’s promises of a land to … In Numbers 14:22 God says He gave them ten chances!) What positive lessons have you learned through hardship that you probably couldn't have learned any other way. As we read about the various incidents in the book of Numbers, we notice how ingratitude undermines faith and produces a chain reaction in human nature. Chapters 17-20: The incident of the budding of Aaron’s rod is described. Their complaints about his wife were simply a smoke-screen to hide the real problem. God told Moses to speak to the rock; but instead, Moses in anger spoke to the people and then struck the rock twice (20:12). It reminds believers of the spiritual warfare in which they are engaged, for Numbers is the book … … Please do not lay this sin on us, in which we have done foolishly and in which we have sinned.” Moses then interceded; and after seven days of banishment outside the camp, Miriam was healed (Numbers 12:9-15). The contentious leaders refused to recognize that they were in rebellion against God, who had appointed Moses and Aaron in the first place (Jude 1:10-11). This book is named after the main character of its second part. The celebrations mentioned in this chapter provided specific times for the people to be refreshed spiritually, mentally, and physically. Chapters 7-10: Final instructions and events before departing Sinai. Moses on a number of occasions acted as personal intercessor on behalf of the people. Ask a student to read Numbers 14:10 aloud. So God gave them their wish! Always wanting more can produce bad results (James 4:1-3). Their opponent wasn't Israel - It was the Lord of all the earth! We can learn such lessons as showing gratitude instead of grumbling and complaining, accepting God’s appointed leadership and following God’s instructions. While they must be held accountable for their actions, we should be sure of our motives before we point an accusing finger at spiritual leaders. God's instructions are never to be taken lightly. Chapters 22-25: Balak, the king of the Moabites, instructed Balaam to curse Israel, but he was unable, as God prevented him from doing it. God knows that his children are not perfect; we all sin. But those who study the book may be surprised to discover it teaches many spiritual principles and lessons. As the leader of the Israelites, Moses had the responsibility to set a good example for them. Was God too harsh with Moses? They had arrived near the banks of the Jordan River. In the Hebrew Bible the book is referred to by a Hebrew phrase in the first verse of chapter 1 that means “in the wilderness.” This is a more complete designation, since Numbers contains the history of Israel wandering in the desert from the time they left Mount Sinai, in the second month of the second year after the exodus, until they arrived in Moab, near the borders of the Promised Land, in the 10th month of the 40th year of their journeying. The Book of Numbers, called Arithmoi (meaning “Arithmetic”) in the Septuagint, gets its name from the census in chapters 1 and 26. god had instructed Moses to speak to the rock and command water to come out of it. Lessons from the Book of Numbers Feb 4, 2018 There are numerous spiritual lessons to be learned from the fourth book of the Old Testament. In chapter 31 Midian was defeated and Balaam was killed. Number 30. Chapter 6: The Nazirite vow. The second part of chapter 10 pictures Israel departing Mount Sinai (verses 11-13), with the Ark of the Covenant leading the way (verses 33-34). Numbers is the 4th book of the Pentateuch. 11 Life Lessons from The Book of Second Chronicles | Second Chronicles Bible Study Second Chronicles continues the history of Israel that was begun in 1 Chronicles. Purpose of Writing: The message of the Book of Numbers is universal and timeless. Numbers is a historical book, whose name refers to the two censuses which were taken to number the people. The book draws its name from the census made of the people, a necessary step toward their organization and … If one understands the numbers to be literal and the men to represent about one-fourth of the population, then the number of the Israelites ranges from two to three million people 10 A literal understanding of the numbers in the census is in congruence with … This passage shows that we should be very careful about Criticizing our spiritual leaders. Through Numbers there are two shining examples of obedience and faith in God. The book of Hebrews sums up the lessons by stating that we should not harden our hearts as the ancient Israelites did. The Book of Numbers is the story of Israel’s journey across the wilderness from the land of Egypt until they arrived at their great inheritance. Other well-known examples include Abraham pleading for Sodom (Genesis 18); Job praying for his friends (Job 42:10); members of the Church praying for Peter in prison (Acts 12); and Samuel praying for the Israelites (1 Samuel 12:18-23). We cannot blame him for getting angry and frustrated. ... “Lesson 63: Numbers 13–14,” Old Testament Seminary Teacher Manual ... You may also want to share an experience from your own life. Today, we offer gifts to God when we give our time and money to our churches. The first census was completed while the Israelites were still at Mount Sinai (chapters 1-2), and the second one came 38 years later when they arrived at the borders of Canaan at the end of their wanderings in the wilderness (chapter 26). Chapter 12: Miriam and Aaron were critical and disrespectful of Moses, most likely due to envy. Other occasions are described, such as calling leaders (Numbers 10:4), an alarm of war (verse 9) and announcing festival days (verse 10). day: Sinai: Ten Commandments, Covenant, … Most of us have experienced a similar tug-of-war. The reaction of the people so discouraged him that he reached a point where he asked God to kill him: “Please kill me here and now” (Numbers 11:14-15). What are the greatest personal struggles facing you now? God again backed up His chosen servant. Numbers takes up the story where Exodus left off. They showed an abject lack of appreciation for what God had done for them. Levites were forbidden to touch the sacred articles. For a quick link to all the other books of the Bible, see “Books of the Bible” on the Learning Center. It is the fourth book of the Pentateuch. There are various references to the book of Numbers in the New Testament. They had seen the results of not believing in God. The story begins at Mt. By refusing to accept God’s judgment, the Israelites would wander 40 years and that generation would die in the wilderness before their children inherited the Promised Land. Apparently, they were divided between wanting to obey God and worrying about their own physical needs. The Israelites were finally done wandering throught he desert. They both tried to convince the people of Israel that God would deliver Canaan into their … What does the failure to enter the promised land teach us about distrusting God when it comes to the major decisions in life? EVENTS. Chapter 11: Only three days after their departure from Sinai, the people started complaining! 1st month 15th day: Departure from Egypt: Crossing the Red Sea: Marah, Elim Wildernes of Sin: People Murmur: 2nd month 15th day: Quails and Manna : Rephdim: Water from the Rock : Battle with Amalek : 3rd month ? God sees not only what we have done, but he knows why we have done it. The Book of Numbers. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the New King James Version (© 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc.). The English version designated it as Numbers. The book’s English title originated with the Greek Septuagint version of the Bible. God was now dwelling in the Tabernacle in the midst of their camp. When Miriam and Aaron expressed jealousy toward Moses, God’s anger “was aroused against them.” Miriam was stricken with leprosy, and Aaron appealed to Moses: “Oh, my lord! Chapters 28 and 29 deal with sacrifices during God’s festivals, and vows are discussed in chapter 30. Although God hates all sin, there is a big difference between unintentionally and willfully wanting to do what is wrong. The instances of sinful complaining and rebellion and the resulting judgment are so pronounced and widespread that it seems like they will never make it (Num. When everyone else around them was scared and afraid, they alone held to God’s promises. Their complaining and unfaithfulness displeased God and disqualified that generation from entering the Promised Land (Numbers 11:1). This incident was followed by another sin, that of presumptuousness (verses 39-45). Are we acting out of true concern for someone else, or because we are jealous? All rights reserved. NUMBERS. Scholars have debated the meaning of the numbers for hundreds of years so it is easy to get bogged down in them. Lesson 61: Numbers 1–10. As a result, many did not enter the Promised Land (Hebrews 3:7-11). Numbers 32:23 reminds us, “Be sure your sin will find you out.”. Lesson 2 - Chapter 1 . “Beware, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief in departing from the living God … lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin” (verses 12-13). The Creator God made His presence visibly known among His people. When Moses hit the rock with his walking stick, the people for their water, and Moses got some relief. The Levites were chosen to do God’s service in place of the firstborn, and in these chapters the duties of the families of Levi—Gershon, Kohath and Merari—are identified (Numbers 3:25-39). In this passage, King Sihon and King Og may have assumed that this ragged band of nomads would be a pushover, but they were in for a big surprise. The book chronicles the events of the Israelites refusal to trust God and enter the Promised Land because of unbelief (Numbers 14:32-34) and their subsequent wandering in the wilderness. Keeping a promise demonstrated an honest and devoted heart that pleased the Lord. Balaam tells of the coming Messiah, who is described as "a star" (v. 17). Duties and responsibilities of priests and Levites are outlined in chapter 18, while chapter 19 deals with ceremonial cleanliness. Christ is the greatest example of all (Luke 22:31-32; John 17:20-21), interceding on our behalf in many ways, including acting as our High Priest (Hebrews 7:25; 1 John 2:1-2). When a difficult time occurs, how do you tend to respond? Chapter 33: This chapter reviews the history of the wanderings for 40 years in the wilderness. They did not live for the present. Chapter 2: Organization of the families in the camp. For more on this man’s conduct, see the article “Balaam.”. This numbering counts two separate generations: those who lived through the exodus of Egypt and those who inhabited … The title is probably derived from the two occasions in the book where a census is taken … (Leviticus, which interrupts the flow of narration, consists almost entirely of legislation independent of historic precedent–with the exception of Lev. The Book of Numbers is composed of narrative, legislation, and archival records. Numbers Images and Notes. Chapters 34-36: Eleazar the priest and Joshua divided up the inheritance of the land (chapter 34); specific cities for the Levites were set aside (chapter 35); and judgments regarding inheritance were refined (chapter 36). Rarely, though, is violence the power reaction for our anger. It is God’s desire that we not repeat the mistakes of the Israelites of old, but rather that we respond to and follow His truths outlined in His Word. 1445 BC: Census, Tribes, Duties: Numbers 1 - 6: 1445 BC: Tabernacle Dedication: Numbers 7 - 10: 1445 BC: The People Complain: Numbers … So it was always: the cloud covered it by day, and the appearance of fire by night” (Numbers 9:15-16). Our Patient God never quits loving his people. The Book of Numbers was named after the first key word Bemidbar in Hebrew Scripture, which appropriately means "in the desert," … How could the Israelites have complained again after God had been so good to them? The Book of Numbers is the fourth Book of the Law of Moses, also known as the Torah or Pentateuch. Date of Writing: The Book of Numbers was written between 1440 and 1400 B.C. Despite God’s day-and-night presence in their midst, the people were guilty of constantly murmuring and grumbling, even to the point of wanting to choose a captain and return to Egypt (Numbers 14:4). They undoubtedly had convinced themselves that their motives were noble, but God knew better than they did what was really in their hearts. Or if only we had died in this wilderness!” (Numbers 14:2). The book of Judges tells how the Israelites kept rejecting the Lord and worshiping idols. It is easy for us to offhandedly promise something and then break the promise. The Bible warns us not to lean on our own understanding (Proverbs 3:5-7). Its narrative begins at the point where Exodus leaves off. The book of Numbers itself refers to the writing of Moses (in 33:2 and 36:13). The book of Numbers tells why. Over the last couple of weeks we have examined the book of Leviticus and the laws God gave to the sons of Israel concerning sacrifices, ceremonial purity and the moral standards by which they were to live. Korah, a first cousin to Moses, and 250 leaders accused Moses and Aaron of taking too much authority. At first glance, the name Numbers may not sound appealing and interesting. PLACE. Learning this lesson requires a spoiler alert, the Israelites will get to the promised land. Ten of the spies brought back an “evil report,” which resulted in the entire nation rebelling against God. The Israelites understood that as long as the cloud rested over the tabernacle, they were to remain camped in the presence of God (Numbers 9:17). Chapters 3-4: Assignments of the priests and Levites. The Priests were instructed to treat the gifts and sacrifices that were brought by the people with respect. Numbers is so named because a census of Israel is taken twice in the book. The result was that the dissenters were destroyed (Numbers 16:31-33). 8:1; Mark 12:26; John 7:19). When we feel like complaining, let's stop and thank God for what he has done for us and given us. They had refused to trust him one time too many. While many Christians may have given up on reading through the OT by the time they get to Leviticus and Numbers, perseverance is vital. Camp organization, tribes, priests and Levites, vows, Joshua and Caleb, Balaam and the donkey. Let's pray that God will show us how to respond with calm wisdom rather than violence when we confront sin. “Now on the day that the tabernacle was raised up, the cloud covered the tabernacle, the tent of the Testimony; from evening until morning it was above the tabernacle like the appearance of fire. When we set aside a special time to spend with God, we will be amazed at how he renews us, from the inside out. In Greek this book is called arithmoi; the Latinized translation became numeri. In teaching the book of Exodus I have taught this in more simplistic terms, using the vocabulary that the Church uses most typically associated with the Exodus; that is, the common way of speaking that the Passover marked the smearing of the lamb's blood on the doorposts, the … You will recall that in Genesis, the first book of the Pentateuch, we have the creation and fall of man … When God's people sinned accidentally, the Lord promised to forgive them if they admitted their errors and offered sacrifices. He did not do this here. These dissenters wanted to muscle in on the power base and appoint themselves to positions of authority. Chronological Events in the Book of Numbers TIME. Consider Moses and the lessons we can learn from what he experienced. Andre van Belkum currently serves as the pastor of the Church of God, a Worldwide Association, in New Zealand and the Pacific region. Friend, many times in these lessons I have invited you … The people once again complained that they had no water. Numbers was written in the final year of Moses’ life. If the altar symbolises the wealth of his cross, that lovely golden lampstand symbolises how beautiful our blessed Lord is in his risen power. But after Moses’ intercessory prayer, God pardoned the iniquity of the people, although they were still not allowed to go into the Promised Land (Numbers 14:1-23). Sin brings devastating results. Notice that Moses did not hold a grudge but prayed for Miriam to be healed. Each time they did this, the Lord punished t... 14 Life Lessons from The Book of Numbers | Numbers Bible Study, 1 # Short Commentary & Lesson From Numbers 9.15-23, 2 # Short Commentary & Lesson From Numbers 11.1-35, 14 Life Lessons from The Book of Joshua | Joshua Bible Study, 16 Life Lessons and Commentary from The Book of Job | Job Bible Study, 27 Life Lessons from The Book of Exodus | Exodus Bible Study, 29 Biblical Life Lessons from The Book of Genesis | Genesis Bible Study, 15 Life Lessons from The Book of 1 Samuel | 1 Samuel Bible Study, 5 Life Lessons from The Book of Ezra | Ezra Bible Study, 33 Life Lessons from The Book of Psalms | Psalms Bible Study, 5 Life Lessons and Commentary from The Book of Nehemiah | Nehemiah Bible Study, 8 Life Lessons from The Book of Judges | Judges Bible Study. The book gets its name from its main characte... Job was a very rich man, and although he did not belong to the people of Israel, he worshiped the Lord and was a truly good person. If God has disciplined us for sins, we should learn from our mistakes and recommit ourselves to trusting God for a great future. Those responsible for handling these gifts should do so with great care. The first 10 verses of chapter 10 describe the various uses of trumpets, and on what occasions and for what reasons they were blown. As it does for the rest of the Pentateuch, universal Jewish and Christian tradition attributes the authorship of the book of Numbers to Sinai only to rebel against God at every step. book offers a powerful testimony of God’s patience and grace through both the rebellious and the obedient generations of his people Today we must be careful about presuming the Lord will be kind. This coming Christ would a blessing to all nations. They knew that disobedience and complaining would bring trouble. NUMBERS. The Law includes the Books of Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. Yet, God's Spirit "took control of him" (24.2) and used Balaam to speak a message to the Israelites. We can be assured that he will do no less for us. During this time Moses made a terrible mistake that cost him entry into the Promised Land. For instance, the two silver trumpets were used to send a signal to the entire congregation. (We skipped over Numbers 12, which reveals second (or more) chances for Aaron and Miriam. The Lord quickly let Moses' brother and sister know that they were not on the same terms with him as Moses was. Each family had a standard—an ensign or signal flag (Numbers 2:2). When the Israelites rebelled at the report of the returning spies, God threatened to disinherit them. Occasionally we may feel like we are far from God. At first glance, the name Numbers may not sound appealing and interesting. The people soon forgot the hardships of Egyptian slavery and lusted after the foods of the land of their captivity (Numbers 11:4). Taking some time out of our busy schedules and spending it with God will help renew our physical energy as well as our commitment to the Lord. NUMBERS SUMMARY. The Israelites would follow God's instructions, and keep their faith in him. He killed Zimri. Besides, many people consider complaining to be normal in this world of  "looking out for Number One." However, when you read these chapters, you see how God takes care to carefully arrange his people and give order to their lives even as the… Chapters 13-14: The 12 spies were sent to Canaan. However, Balaam advised the Moabite women to entice the men of Israel into adulterous pagan rites so God would punish them (Numbers 25:1-9; Revelation 2:14). Introduction to the Book of Numbers. God answered his prayers. We hurt him and ourselves when we disobey him. We must be careful about how we express anger. These links will give you more about this inspiring future that God wants to motivate us. 14:2-4, 26). The tribes were arranged in order around the tabernacle, where God’s presence was located, with the Levites in the middle. At the end of the Book of Leviticus, they have been out of Egypt for a little more than … Just like us, they are imperfect people who sometimes say and do foolish things. Used by permission. The Book of Numbers. Perhaps excitement has caused us to say more than we meant to, but that's no excuse. The word Nazirite comes from the root nazir, and means to “separate” or “keep away from.” (This is not the same meaning as Nazarene, which refers to a resident of Nazareth.). 1-16 shows us that we must be especially careful about making rash promises. Previously he pastored congregations in southern Africa, including South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Malawi. The Bible tells us that God is always working for our good. Chapter 32: Land on the east side of the Jordan River was given to Reuben, Gad and half of the tribe of Manasseh. Yes, he is merciful and loving, but he also means what he says. Author: Moses was the author of the Book of Numbers. Numbers 14:14 - And they will tell [it] to the inhabitants of this land: [for] they have heard that thou LORD [art] among this people, that thou LORD art seen face to face, and [that] thy cloud standeth over them, and [that] thou goest before them, by day time in a pillar of a … In fervent, heartfelt prayers ( Isaiah 59:15-16 ; James 5:16 ) by chapter verse. Offered sacrifices and responsibilities of priests and Levites, vows, Joshua and,. Who is described as `` a star '' ( v. 17 ) imperfect people who sometimes say and do things... Was killed in Numbers 14:22 God says he gave them ten chances! Sinai! The exception of Lev were divided between wanting to obey God and disqualified generation... Although God hates all sin: “ the Practical and Priceless Benefits of Bible Study. ” power. 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