1. An Introduction to Numbers “God’s Warning to Us”
January 29, 2017
Through the Bible in a Year
Xavier Reyna, Director
Ben Compere, Editor
Wayman Lim, Choir Director
Anthony Smith, Sergeant at Arms
“It took only forty hours to get Israel out of Egypt; but it took forty years to get Egypt out of Israel.” J. Sidlow Baxter, “Explore the Book”
“not one of those who saw my glory and the signs I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness but who disobeyed me and tested me ten times— not one of them will ever see the land I promised on oath to their ancestors.” Numbers 14:22,23 (NIV)

2. We Will Look Briefly at These Topics
Agenda
We Will Look Briefly at These Topics
Introduction
Numbers & History
Numbers & the Pentateuch
Summary
Structure
Analysis
Content
Bible’s Use of Numbers
Themes
Review
Application
Conclusion
Test
“It is a complex story of unfaithfulness, rebellion, apostasy and frustration set against the background of God’s faithfulness and forbearance.”
LaSor, Hubbard and Bush, “Old Testament Survey ”
“not one of those who saw my glory and the signs I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness but who disobeyed me and tested me ten times— not one of them will ever see the land I promised on oath to their ancestors.” Numbers 14:22,23 (NIV)

3. An Introduction to a Book of the Bible Provides Three Things:
Information: general information about the book
Insights: to enhance a more detailed study of the book
Incentive: whets your appetite to pursue further study of the book
“not one of those who saw my glory and the signs I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness but who disobeyed me and tested me ten times— not one of them will ever see the land I promised on oath to their ancestors.” Numbers 14:22,23 (NIV)

4. What the Book of Numbers Teaches Us
Lesson
What the Book of Numbers Teaches Us
Israel’s continual rebellion against God (in spite of his faithfulness to His covenant) is a constant warning to us of the consequences of disobedience.
“not one of those who saw my glory and the signs I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness but who disobeyed me and tested me ten times— not one of them will ever see the land I promised on oath to their ancestors.” Numbers 14:22,23 (NIV)

5. Numbers Covers 40 Years of Old Testament History (1446-1406 BC)
Numbers & History
Numbers Covers 40 Years of Old Testament History ( BC)
Numbers
“not one of those who saw my glory and the signs I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness but who disobeyed me and tested me ten times— not one of them will ever see the land I promised on oath to their ancestors.” Numbers 14:22,23 (NIV)

6. The Chronology of the Pentateuch From Creation to Canaan
Numbers & History
The Chronology of the Pentateuch From Creation to Canaan
Creation
Canaan
“not one of those who saw my glory and the signs I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness but who disobeyed me and tested me ten times— not one of them will ever see the land I promised on oath to their ancestors.” Numbers 14:22,23 (NIV)

7. Numbers Is Part of the Pentateuch (First Five Books of the Bible)
The Pentateuch is referred to in Scripture as the “Law” or the “Books of Moses.”
“not one of those who saw my glory and the signs I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness but who disobeyed me and tested me ten times— not one of them will ever see the land I promised on oath to their ancestors.” Numbers 14:22,23 (NIV)

8. Deuteronomy as Epilogue
Pentateuch
Numbers Must Be Interpreted in Context of the Pentateuch Be Properly Understood
Promise
Renewal
GENESIS
DEUTERONOMY
Presence
Testing
EXODUS
LEVITICUS
NUMBERS
Genesis as Prologue
Deuteronomy as Epilogue
Holiness
“The material in Numbers cannot be understood apart from what precedes it in Exodus and Leviticus. The middle books of the Pentateuch hang closely together, with Genesis forming a prologue, and Deuteronomy the epilogue to the collection.” Gordon J. Wenham, “Numbers”
“not one of those who saw my glory and the signs I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness but who disobeyed me and tested me ten times— not one of them will ever see the land I promised on oath to their ancestors.” Numbers 14:22,23 (NIV)

9. The Content of the Pentateuch
Text
Content: Notice the centrality of the “covenant”
Genesis 1-11
Creation, fall, judgment
Genesis 12-50
Selection of Abraham , covenant promise (12:1-3),and providential preservation of his family
Exodus
Miraculous deliverance of Yahweh’s people from bondage in Egypt, covenant relationship expanded to Israel as His people at Sinai and giving of the law as a theocratic charter for Israel. The tabernacle.
Leviticus
Expansion of the covenant law for the purpose of holiness among the people of Yahweh since he will dwell in their midst
Numbers
Testing, purging and purifying of Yahweh’s people in the Sinai wilderness wandering
Deuteronomy
Covenant renewal and the second law giving as preparation for entry into the land of promise by the second geneation of Yahweh’s people
“The record of Israel’s journey form Sinai to the plains of Moab continues the narratives of Exodus and Leviticus and helps explain the Hebrew presence in the land of Canaan.” Hill and Walton, “A Survey of the Old Testament”
“not one of those who saw my glory and the signs I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness but who disobeyed me and tested me ten times— not one of them will ever see the land I promised on oath to their ancestors.” Numbers 14:22,23 (NIV)

10. The Lord’s Covenant with Abraham
Pentateuch
1 The LORD had said to Abram, “Go from your country, your people and your father’s household to the land I will show you.
2 “I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing.
3 I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.” Genesis 12:1-3 NIV
The promise of land, nation and blessing: Gen 12:1-3
The covenant confirming the promise: Gen 15: 1-21; Gen 17:1-27; Gen 22:15-18
The covenant passed on to
Isaac: Gen 17:19; Gen 21:12; Gen 26:1-6, 23,24
Jacob: Gen 28:10-15; Gen 35:11-13
Blessed to be a blessing
“It was in Haran that the Lord called Abraham in words whose importance reverberate through the canon.” Dillard and Longman, “An Introduction to the Old Testament”
“not one of those who saw my glory and the signs I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness but who disobeyed me and tested me ten times— not one of them will ever see the land I promised on oath to their ancestors.” Numbers 14:22,23 (NIV)

11. The Lord’s Covenant with Abraham and the Book of Numbers
Pentateuch
The Lord’s Covenant with Abraham and the Book of Numbers
Israel was to travel to the land promised them by the Lord through Abraham (Gen. 12:1-3)
In the land the Lord would make of them a great nation
Through this nation (Israel) all the nations of the world would be blessed
This is why the report of the spies and rebellion of the people at Kadesh (chapters 13 and 14) is the most critical part of the book of Numbers (and why the punishment was so severe). The nation failed to accept what the Lord had given to it and thereby delayed the fulfillment of the promises of the covenant with Abraham. In effect they were saying we are abdicating our responsibility to be a blessing to the rest of humanity.
“not one of those who saw my glory and the signs I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness but who disobeyed me and tested me ten times— not one of them will ever see the land I promised on oath to their ancestors.” Numbers 14:22,23 (NIV)

12. Summary
Summary of the Content
Numbers links of the book of Exodus and Deuteronomy. It begins with Israel at the foot of Sinai preparing to travel to Canaan, the land of promise.
After sending spies into Canaan and hearing their report, the people decide to reject the advice to enter the land. God is furious and wants to destroy them but Moses intercedes for the people. The Lord allows them to wander for 40 years in the desert until the old generation has all died.
New preparations are made to enter the land and Israel stands poised on the plains of Moab as the book closes.
At issue is whether Israel will keep covenant with God – and Numbers reminds you over and over again that the divine provisions for them to do so are always ready at hand. Fee and Stuart, “How to Read the Bible Book by Book”
“not one of those who saw my glory and the signs I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness but who disobeyed me and tested me ten times— not one of them will ever see the land I promised on oath to their ancestors.” Numbers 14:22,23 (NIV)

13. Numbers Is Heavily Dependent on Geography
Structure
Numbers Is Heavily Dependent on Geography
Moab
Numbers 22:1-36:13
Kadesh
Numbers 13:1-20:21
Egypt
Exodus 1-11
Kadesh to Moab
Numbers 20:22-21:35
Egypt to Sinai
Exodus 12-18
Sinai to Kadesh
Numbers 10:11-12:16
Sinai
Exodus 19-40
Numbers 1-10

14. The Death of the Old Generation and the Rise of the New
Analysis
The Death of the Old Generation and the Rise of the New
Preparation of the Old Generation to Enter the Land (1:1-10:10)
Failure of the Old Generation to Enter the Land (10:11-20:21)
Preparation of the New Generation to Enter the Land (20:22-36:13)
“… the basic message of Numbers – the faithfulness of Yahweh in the face of Israel’s rebellion and the dire consequences attached to disobedience.” Hill and Walton, “A Survey of the Old Testament”
“not one of those who saw my glory and the signs I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness but who disobeyed me and tested me ten times— not one of them will ever see the land I promised on oath to their ancestors.” Numbers 14:22,23 (NIV)

15. Analysis
The Wilderness Wandering Occupies 38 of 40 Years But Only 6 of 36 Chapters
Sinai to Kadesh
About 11 days
At Kadesh
About 40 days
Kadesh to Moab
“The book of Numbers is basically silent on the events that occurred during the thirty-eight years of desert wanderings. This silence reflects the book’s primary purpose. Numbers is not a history of Israel but an essay about the consequences of disobedience.” b Arnold and Beyer, “Encountering the Old Testament”
“not one of those who saw my glory and the signs I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness but who disobeyed me and tested me ten times— not one of them will ever see the land I promised on oath to their ancestors.” Numbers 14:22,23 (NIV)

16. Analysis
The Purpose of Numbers Deals with Preparing Israel to Enter the Promised Land
To fill-in the historical period from the Exodus and Sinai to the preparations in Moab to enter the Promised Land
To explain that the 38 year period in the wilderness was a consequence for the unbelief of the older generation
To demonstrate God’s faithfulness against the unfaithfulness of Israel’s
To present laws as case studies which do not have a precedent in what has been spoken thus far.
To narrate the preparation of Israel for entry into the Promise Land by describing the journey from Sinai to the region beyond Jordan
“… the basic message of Numbers – the faithfulness of Yahweh in the face of Israel’s rebellion and the dire consequences attached to disobedience.” Hill and Walton, “A Survey of the Old Testament”
“not one of those who saw my glory and the signs I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness but who disobeyed me and tested me ten times— not one of them will ever see the land I promised on oath to their ancestors.” Numbers 14:22,23 (NIV)

17. The Content of Numbers Includes Both Instruction and Events
1:1-10:10
10:11-20:21
20:22-36:13
Preparation of the Old Generation to Enter the Land
Failure of the Old Generation to Enter the Land
Preparation of the New Generation to Enter the Land
Census
Cleansing laws
Offerings
Levites’ dedication
Passover
Trumpets
Grumbling for hardship
Rebellion Aaron, Miriam
Spies report
Rebellion of the people
Korah’s rebellion
Duties of priests & Levites
Water from the rock
Death of Aaron
Defeat of Arad
Bronze snake
Journey to Moab
Balak and Balaam
Israel worships Baal
Laws: land, offerings, vows
Battles: Midian, Transjordan
Camp sites
Laws of land
“not one of those who saw my glory and the signs I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness but who disobeyed me and tested me ten times— not one of them will ever see the land I promised on oath to their ancestors.” Numbers 14:22,23 (NIV)

18. The Two Censuses: Preparation to Enter the Land
Content
The Two Censuses: Preparation to Enter the Land
First census (1:1-4:46)
Determine the men fit for military service (over 20 years old) by tribe (603,550)
Determine the Levites for Tabernacle service
Second census (26:1-65)
Determine the men fit for military service (over 20 years old) by tribe (601,730)
Determine the basis for the allocation of the land
“not one of those who saw my glory and the signs I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness but who disobeyed me and tested me ten times— not one of them will ever see the land I promised on oath to their ancestors.” Numbers 14:22,23 (NIV)

19. The Report of the Spies: The Critical Point Chapters 13 and 14
Content
The Report of the Spies: The Critical Point Chapters 13 and 14
The people refuse (not fail) to enter the land God had given them
These people are not the type the Lord wants or needs to fulfill his purposes of being a blessing to all the nations
This is why the Lord chose to wait until the exodus generation had died off before allowing Israel to enter the land
“The critical turning point of Numbers may be seen in chapter 14 when Israel rejects God by refusing to go up and conquer the Promised Land. God judges Israel ‘according to the number of days in which you spied out the land, forty days, for each day you shall bear your guilt one year, namely forty years, and you shall know my rejection.’ ” Wilkinson and Boa, “Talk Thru the Old Testament”
“not one of those who saw my glory and the signs I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness but who disobeyed me and tested me ten times— not one of them will ever see the land I promised on oath to their ancestors.” Numbers 14:22,23 (NIV)

20. The Report of the Spies: This Land is the Land
Content
The Report of the Spies: This Land is the Land
All of God’s miraculous works to preserve Israel had lead them to this moment: to enter the land God had promised them through Abraham (Gen 12:1-3)
The spies’ reports confirmed that the land they had just spied was the land they were promised:
Predicted in Exodus 3:8,17; 13:5; 33:3 as a land “flowing with milk and honey”
All 12 spies recognize that the land they spied was a land “flowing with milk and honey” (Numbers13:27)
“This of course is a contradiction of the age-old promise to Abraham that his descendants would inherit the land, and a denial of the whole purpose of the exodus from Egypt.” G. J. Wenham, “Exploring the Old Testament: Guide to the Pentateuch
“not one of those who saw my glory and the signs I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness but who disobeyed me and tested me ten times— not one of them will ever see the land I promised on oath to their ancestors.” Numbers 14:22,23 (NIV)

21. The Balaam Oracles: Chapters 22-24
Content
Text
Title
22:2-6
Introduction
22:7-14
Balaam’s 1st encounter with God
22:15-20
Balaam’s 2nd encounter with God
22:21-35
Balaam’s 3rd encounter with God
22:36-40
22:41-23:12
Balaam’s 1st blessing on Israel
23:13-26
Balaam’s 2nd blessing on Israel
23:27-24:25
Balaam’s 3rd blessing on Israel
The Balaam Oracles: Chapters 22-24
The Lord turns Balaam’s “curses” into “blessings”
These blessings mirror the Lord’s promise to Abraham in Gen 12:1-3
Great nation: 23:10
Blessing: 23:21-23
Land: 24:5-7
Blessing to nations: 24:16,17
“The inclusion of the Balaam oracles in the Numbers narrative enhances the basic message of Yahweh’s covenant faithfulness to Israel by reminding them they are a “blessed” people (22:12), nurtured and protected by Yahweh’s very presence.” Hill and Walton, “A Survey of the Old Testament”
“not one of those who saw my glory and the signs I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness but who disobeyed me and tested me ten times— not one of them will ever see the land I promised on oath to their ancestors.” Numbers 14:22,23 (NIV)

22. Content
Baal Worship: Chapter 25
Moabite women used sexual enticement to get the men of Israel to attend pagan worship services
These were the type of temptations Israel would face in the land of promise
Therefore, the Lord took radical action to eliminate the threat
Phinehas’ courageous action turned away God’s wrath on the people
“Militarily, Israel was doing well. Their enemies were terrified (22:3), and the man summoned to put a curse on Israel had instead spoken God’s blessing (24:8,9). But the Israelites were vulnerable to sexual temptation. Moabite women offered sexual favors, then invited the foreigners to local religious services. (Numbers 31:16 reports that Balaam suggested the tactic). It is an old method of subverting God’s people, and it still works.” Philip Yancey
“not one of those who saw my glory and the signs I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness but who disobeyed me and tested me ten times— not one of them will ever see the land I promised on oath to their ancestors.” Numbers 14:22,23 (NIV)

23. Baal Worship and the Golden Calf
Content
Baal Worship and the Golden Calf
Event
Exodus
Golden Calf
Numbers
Baal Worship
People sacrifice to other gods
32:6
25:2
Killing of apostates demanded
32:27
25:5
Levites’(Phinehas’) status enhanced
32:28-29
25:6-13
Plague on the people
32:35
25:9
“These parallels suggest that the people have learnt very little from their previous mistakes. But perhaps there is a glimmer of hope, in that Aaron was the ringleader of the golden calf episode but his grandson Phinehas is exemplary in his loyalty in the plains of Moab” G. J. Wenham, “Exploring the Old Testament: Guide to the Pentateuch
“not one of those who saw my glory and the signs I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness but who disobeyed me and tested me ten times— not one of them will ever see the land I promised on oath to their ancestors.” Numbers 14:22,23 (NIV)

24. Battles Fought in Numbers
Content
Battles Fought in Numbers
Verses
Place
Opponent
King
Aggressor
Victor
14:45
Hormah
Amalekites and Canaanites
Israel
21:1-3
Arad
21:21-25
Jahaz
Amorites
Sihon
21:33-35
Edrei
Bashan Og
31:1-12
Midian
Evi, Rekem, Zur, Hur, Reha
Notice that all the battles that Israel won were near the end of the 40 years when the old generation was on the verge of extinction.
“not one of those who saw my glory and the signs I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness but who disobeyed me and tested me ten times— not one of them will ever see the land I promised on oath to their ancestors.” Numbers 14:22,23 (NIV)

25. Numbers and the Bible Old Testament New Testament Deuteronomy Chs 1-4
Bible’s Use of Numbers
Numbers and the Bible
Old Testament
Deuteronomy Chs 1-4
Nehemiah 9:16-21
Psalm 78:14-39
Psalm 95
Psalm 105: 37-41
Psalm 106: 24-33, 44-46
New Testament
John 3:14,15; 6:48-51
Acts 7: 35-44
1 Corinthians 10:1-13
Hebrews 3:7- 4:11
Jude 1:11
Revelation 2:14
Biblical authors often use the story of the book of Numbers to WARN their audiences not to repeat the sin and rebellion of the Israelites in the wilderness.
“The significant part of Israel’s story we find recorded in Numbers had a long history in Israel’s memory stressing God’s faithfulness to his people despite their many failures.” Fee and Stuart, “How to Read the Bible Book by Book”
“not one of those who saw my glory and the signs I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness but who disobeyed me and tested me ten times— not one of them will ever see the land I promised on oath to their ancestors.” Numbers 14:22,23 (NIV)

26. Paul Uses “Numbers” to Warn the Corinthians About the Consequences of Idolatry
Bible’s Use of Numbers
 For I do not want you to be ignorant of the fact, brothers, that our forefathers were all under the cloud [cf. Num 9:15-23] and that they all passed through the sea [cf. Num 33:8]. They were all baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea. They all ate the same spiritual food [cf. Num 11:4 ff] and drank the same spiritual drink; for they drank from the spiritual rock that accompanied them, and that rock was Christ [cf. Num 20:2-13] Nevertheless, God was not pleased with most of them; their bodies were scattered over the desert [cf. Num 26:64.65]
Now these things occurred as examples to keep us from setting our hearts on evil things as they did. Do not be idolaters, as some of them were; as it is written: "The people sat down to eat and drink and got up to indulge in pagan revelry.” We should not commit sexual immorality, as some of them did—and in one day twenty-three thousand of them died. [cf. Num 25] We should not test the Lord, as some of them did—and were killed by snakes. [cf. Num 21:4-9] And do not grumble, as some of them did—and were killed by the destroying angel.[cf. Num 11:1ff, 14:1ff, 16:42ff] These things happened to them as examples and were written down as WARNINGS for us, on whom the fulfillment of the ages has come. 1 Cor 10:1-11
“not one of those who saw my glory and the signs I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness but who disobeyed me and tested me ten times— not one of them will ever see the land I promised on oath to their ancestors.” Numbers 14:22,23 (NIV)

27. Hints of Jesus in Numbers
Bible’s Use of Numbers
Hints of Jesus in Numbers
Event
Numbers
New Testament
Manna
11:6-9
John 6:48-51
The Rock
20:2-10
1 Cor 10:4
The Bronze Serpent
21:6-9
John 3:14,15
Manna
The Rock
Bronze Serpent
“not one of those who saw my glory and the signs I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness but who disobeyed me and tested me ten times— not one of them will ever see the land I promised on oath to their ancestors.” Numbers 14:22,23 (NIV)

28. Themes in the Book of Numbers
“The Lord said to Moses”
Faithfulness of the Lord to his covenant with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob
The grumbling, complaining and rebelling of the people of Israel
The intercession of Moses to the Lord to reduce the judgment on the rebellious people
A theme is a unifying idea or image which is repeated or developed throughout a book.
“not one of those who saw my glory and the signs I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness but who disobeyed me and tested me ten times— not one of them will ever see the land I promised on oath to their ancestors.” Numbers 14:22,23 (NIV)

29. “The Lord Said to Moses”
Themes
“The Lord Said to Moses”
This phrase appears over 80 times in the book of Numbers or about twice a chapter.
Clear evidence that these commands were of divine origin and not from Moses’ own imagination.
The Lord spoke to Moses in a unique and intimate way.
“I speak with him face to face, Even plainly, and not in dark sayings…” Numbers 12:8 (KJV)
“… the introductory formula ‘and the Lord said to Moses’ appears in every chapter of the book.” Hill and Walton, “A Survey of the Old Testament”
“not one of those who saw my glory and the signs I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness but who disobeyed me and tested me ten times— not one of them will ever see the land I promised on oath to their ancestors.” Numbers 14:22,23 (NIV)

30. Faithfulness
Of The Lord
Themes
The Covenant
The covenant made with Abraham, Isaac and then Jacob (Gen 12:1-3)
Provide a land to dwell in
Make a great nation
Blessed to be a blessing to the nations
1 The LORD had said to Abram, “Go from your country, your people and your father’s household to the land I will show you. 2 “I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. 3 I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.” Gen 12:1-3 NIV
“not one of those who saw my glory and the signs I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness but who disobeyed me and tested me ten times— not one of them will ever see the land I promised on oath to their ancestors.” Numbers 14:22,23 (NIV)

31. Examples of the Lord’s Faithfulness
Themes
Examples of the Lord’s Faithfulness
Communicating directly with Moses, the leader
Taking the census for military and organizational purposes (Chapters 1-4, 26)
Providing laws for purity (Chapters (5-9)
Supplying a means of direction via a pillar of cloud and fire and trumpets (Chapters 9, 10)
Providing manna and quail to eat (Chapter 11)
Giving Israel water from the rock (Chapter 20)
Healing of the bronze snake (Chapter 21)
Reversing the curses of Balaam (Chapters 22-24)
Providing a successor to Moses (Chapter 27)
“The central and unifying theme of the book of Numbers is the faithfulness of God to fulfill his promises to his people even when they rebel against him.” R D Cole , “Numbers”
“not one of those who saw my glory and the signs I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness but who disobeyed me and tested me ten times— not one of them will ever see the land I promised on oath to their ancestors.” Numbers 14:22,23 (NIV)

32. The Grumbling, Complaining and Rebelling of Israel
Themes
The Grumbling, Complaining and Rebelling of Israel
Verses
Place
Complaint
Result
11:1-4
Taberah
Hardships
Lord burned them with fire until Moses interceded.
11:4-35
Kibroth Hattaavah (craving)
No Meat to Eat
The Lord gave them quail to eat and struck them with a severe plague.
12:1-16
Hazeroth
Miriam and Aaron Rebel
Miriam struck with leprosy, Aaron repents and Moses intercedes for Miriam
13:1-14:44
Kadesh-barnea
Spies Report and Israel’s Rebellion
Israel refuses to enter the land after the spies report. The Lord is angry but forgives them due to Moses intercession. The Lord promises no one over 20 years old will enter the land but will die in the desert except for Joshua and Caleb.
16:1-40
Korah’s Rebellion
Korah, Dathan and Abiram led a revolt against Moses’ leadership apparently over the priesthood. The Lord wanted to destroy many but Moses and Aaron interceded. Only Korah and his followers were destroyed - swallowed up by the earth.
16:41-50
The Assembly Complains
The people complained after the judgment on Korah. The Lord sent plagues killing 14,700 and once again Moses and Aaron interceeed to stop the judgment.
17:1-12
Aaron’s Budding Rod
Among 12 rods placed in the tabernacle only Aaron’s budded (and blossomed and bore fruit) showing he was chosen by the Lord.
20:1-13
Meribah (quareling)
Water from the Rock
Israel complained about the lack of water. The lord told Moses to speak to a rock to get water but Moses, angry at Israel struck the rock twice. As a judgment he was prohibited from entering the land
21:4-9
By Sea of Reeds
The Brazen Serpent
The people complained and the Lord sent poisonous snakes among them. Moses prayed at the people’s request and the Lord had him make a bonze snake that healed the people as they gazed on it.
"How long will this wicked community grumble against me? I have heard the complaints of these grumbling Israelites Numbers 14:27

33. The Grumbling, Complaining and Rebelling of Israel
Themes
The Grumbling, Complaining and Rebelling of Israel
Elements of the “Grumbling” Episodes
The people’s complaint
God’s anger and judgment
Moses’ intercession
Naming of the place
"How long will this wicked community grumble against me? I have heard the complaints of these grumbling Israelites. Numbers 14:27
“not one of those who saw my glory and the signs I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness but who disobeyed me and tested me ten times— not one of them will ever see the land I promised on oath to their ancestors.” Numbers 14:22,23 (NIV)

34. The Grumbling, Complaining and Rebelling of Israel
Themes
The Grumbling, Complaining and Rebelling of Israel
Please, notice that grumbling and complaining is not present in the
first 10 chapters as Moses prepares Israel to march to the promised
land.
Then there is a rash of grumbling in chapters with the climax
coming with the spy induced rebellion of chapters 13 and 14.
Finally, grumbling is absent from chapters 22 onward mostly likely
because of the deaths of rebels such as Korah, Aaron and Miriam,
the 12 spies and many of the people of the exodus generation.
"How long will this wicked community grumble against me? I have heard the complaints of these grumbling Israelites. Numbers 14:27
“not one of those who saw my glory and the signs I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness but who disobeyed me and tested me ten times— not one of them will ever see the land I promised on oath to their ancestors.” Numbers 14:22,23 (NIV)

35. Here Are Some Common Aspects of Israel’s Complaints
Grumbling
Themes
Here Are Some Common Aspects of Israel’s Complaints
Common Aspect
References
Israel complained about the hardships of living in the desert and wanted to return to Egypt
11:1, 4-6, 14:1-4,
20:2-5, 21:5
Their complaints were against the Lord
11:20, 14:3,11 17:5, 20:4, 21:5
The Lord brought judgment against them
11:1-2,33, 12:9, 14:12, 26-35, 16:25-34, 46-49, 21:6
The judgment was often mitigated or lessened by the intercession of Moses
11:2, 14:13-19, 16:22 16:47-49, 21:7
"How long will this wicked community grumble against me? I have heard the complaints of these grumbling Israelites. Numbers 14:27

36. The People and Leaders Both Rebelled Against the Lord
Grumbling
Themes
The People and Leaders Both Rebelled Against the Lord
Group
Rebel
Complaint
Text
People
The people
Hardships
11:1-4
The rabble and then the people
No Meat to Eat
11:4-35
Ten of twelve spies who agitated the people
Canaanites are too big and powerful.
13:1-14:44
The people complain after the leaders of Korah’s rebellion are killed.
16:41-50
The people and Moses
No water;
20:1-13
Lack of water and food
21:4-9
Leaders
Miriam and Aaron
Moses’ Wife
12:1-16
Korah, Dathan, Abiram and On along with 250 leaders of Israel.
The leadership is too restricted – only Moses, Aaron and his kin. They wanted to “open” it up.
16:1-40
"How long will this wicked community grumble against me? I have heard the complaints of these grumbling Israelites. Numbers 14:27

37. The Root of Israel’s Complaining Was Not About Food and Water
Grumbling
Themes
The Root of Israel’s Complaining Was Not About Food and Water
“Their complaints were far more serious than about food. The Israelites had an inner attitude of rebellion that plays a dominant role in the book of Numbers. They were prone to reject God’s provision and leadership for their lives, even after his miracles and deliverance from Egypt and his provision for their need along the way.”
Arnold and Beyer, “Encountering the Old Testament”
Numbers could also be called "The Book of Murmuring", because the Israelites were always complaining and murmuring against Moses and against God Himself, with the consequent punishments.
“not one of those who saw my glory and the signs I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness but who disobeyed me and tested me ten times— not one of them will ever see the land I promised on oath to their ancestors.” Numbers 14:22,23 (NIV)

38. The Irony of Israel’s Complaining
Grumbling
Themes
The Irony of Israel’s Complaining
“Israel had everything going her way as Numbers opens.
a miraculous redemption from Egypt
a new and unique relationship with God
the Sinai covenant as a blueprint for the future
Like no other nation in history before or since, Israel had everything she needed for complete success. But Israel’s is not a story of success – at least not immediate success.
The book of Numbers relates her struggles with obedience and the consequences of her disobedience.”
Arnold and Beyer, “Encountering the Old Testament”
“not one of those who saw my glory and the signs I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness but who disobeyed me and tested me ten times— not one of them will ever see the land I promised on oath to their ancestors.” Numbers 14:22,23 (NIV)

39. The Intercession of Moses
Themes
The Intercession of Moses
" When the people cried out to Moses, he prayed to the LORD and the fire died down.” Numbers 11:2
Verses
Place
Complaint
Intercession
11:1-4
Taberah
Hardships
Lord burned them with fire until Moses interceded.
12:1-16
Hazeroth
Miriam and Aaron Rebel
Miriam struck with leprosy, Aaron repents and Moses intercedes for Miriam
13:1-14:44
Kadesh-barnea
Spies Report and Israel’s Rebellion
Israel refuses to enter the land after the spies report. The Lord is angry but forgives them due to Moses intercession. The Lord promises no one over 20 years old will enter the land but will die in the desert except for Joshua and Caleb.
16:1-40
Korah’s Rebellion
Korah, Dathan and Abiram led a revolt against Moses’ leadership apparently over the priesthood. The Lord wanted to destroy many but Moses and Aaron interceded. Only Korah and his followers were destroyed - swallowed up by the earth.
16:41-50
The Assembly Complains
The people complained after the judgment on Korah. The Lord sent a plague killing 14,700 and once again Moses and Aaron interceeed to stop the judgment.
21:4-9
By Sea of Reeds
The Brazen Serpent
The people complained and the Lord sent poisonous snakes among them. Moses prayed at the people’s request and the Lord had him make a bonze snake that healed the people as they gazed on it.
“not one of those who saw my glory and the signs I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness but who disobeyed me and tested me ten times— not one of them will ever see the land I promised on oath to their ancestors.” Numbers 14:22,23 (NIV)

40. What the Book of Numbers Teaches Us
Lesson
What the Book of Numbers Teaches Us
Israel’s continual rebellion against God (in spite of his faithfulness to His covenant) is a constant warning to us of the consequences of disobedience.
“not one of those who saw my glory and the signs I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness but who disobeyed me and tested me ten times— not one of them will ever see the land I promised on oath to their ancestors.” Numbers 14:22,23 (NIV)

41. What Does the Book of Numbers Mean to Me?
Application
What Does the Book of Numbers Mean to Me?
Am I grateful for what the Lord has provided for me?
Do I take advantage of all the things the Lord has provided for me to further his kingdom?
Do I, like the first generation out of Egypt, murmur, grumble, complain and rebel against God.
Do I understand the consequences of disobedience?
“Numbers invites every generation to put itself in the place of the new generation.” Dillard and Longman, “An Introduction to the Old Testament”
“not one of those who saw my glory and the signs I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness but who disobeyed me and tested me ten times— not one of them will ever see the land I promised on oath to their ancestors.” Numbers 14:22,23 (NIV)

42. Aaron’s Blessing – 6:24-26 "The LORD bless you and keep you;
Conclusion
Aaron’s Blessing – 6:24-26
"The LORD bless you
and keep you;
the LORD make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you;
the LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace."
KJV
“not one of those who saw my glory and the signs I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness but who disobeyed me and tested me ten times— not one of them will ever see the land I promised on oath to their ancestors.” Numbers 14:22,23 (NIV)

43. Numbers belongs to the group of Old Testament books known as:
Major prophets
Minor prophets
Wisdom literature
Historical books
Pentateuch
None of the above
“not one of those who saw my glory and the signs I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness but who disobeyed me and tested me ten times— not one of them will ever see the land I promised on oath to their ancestors.” Numbers 14:22,23 (NIV)

44. The main story of Numbers is about the:
Test
The main story of Numbers is about the:
Miraculous deliverance of God’s people from bondage in Egypt
Covenant renewal to prepare for entry into the land of promise by the second generation of God’s people
Expansion of the covenant law for the purpose of holiness among the people of God
Testing, purging and purifying of God’s people in the Sinai wilderness wandering
None of the above
“not one of those who saw my glory and the signs I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness but who disobeyed me and tested me ten times— not one of them will ever see the land I promised on oath to their ancestors.” Numbers 14:22,23 (NIV)

45. Which word best describes the theme of Numbers:
Test
Which word best describes the theme of Numbers:
Promise
Presence
Holiness
Testing
Renewal
“not one of those who saw my glory and the signs I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness but who disobeyed me and tested me ten times— not one of them will ever see the land I promised on oath to their ancestors.” Numbers 14:22,23 (NIV)

46. The key event in Numbers is:
Test
The key event in Numbers is:
The prophecy of Balaam (chs )
The first census (chs. 1-4)
The refusal of the people to enter Canaan (chs.13,14)
Baal (ch. 25)
The second census (ch. 26)
“not one of those who saw my glory and the signs I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness but who disobeyed me and tested me ten times— not one of them will ever see the land I promised on oath to their ancestors.” Numbers 14:22,23 (NIV)

47. A prominent characteristic of the people of Israel in Numbers is:
Test
A prominent characteristic of the people of Israel in Numbers is:
Devotion to the Lord
Desire to take the promised land from the Canaanites
Grumbling and complaining
Prophetic trances
None of the above
“not one of those who saw my glory and the signs I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness but who disobeyed me and tested me ten times— not one of them will ever see the land I promised on oath to their ancestors.” Numbers 14:22,23 (NIV)

48. Other biblical authors use the stories in Numbers as a:
Test
Other biblical authors use the stories in Numbers as a:
Warning against disobedience to God
Reminder of the hardships of the desert
Example of organization of the tabernacle
The most direct route from Kadesh to Canaan
How to get water in the desert
“not one of those who saw my glory and the signs I performed in Egypt and in the wilderness but who disobeyed me and tested me ten times— not one of them will ever see the land I promised on oath to their ancestors.” Numbers 14:22,23 (NIV)