NUMBERS BOOK OVERVIEW
OLD TESTAMENT LAW: WANDERING IN THE WILDERNESS
The Israelites continued their journey through the wilderness to the Promised Land. While facing oppression and challenges along the way, many Israelites lost faith in God’s provision, causing them to remain in the wilderness. Despite the many setbacks, there remained a few faithful men who believed they would see God’s promise fulfilled. The book begins and ends with a census, emphasizing the organized structure of the Israelite tribes, their preparation for the journey to the Promised Land, and the allocation of land once they arrived.
The older generation of Israelites rebelled against God and were no longer allowed to enter the promised land because of their disobedience. Similarly, Moses did not follow God’s specific command and lost access to the Promised Land. Joshua and Caleb were the only exceptions of the entire generation - they were allowed to enter because of their faithfulness and trust in God’s provision. God used some incredible signs to get the Israelites’ attention througout the book of Numbers, including a serpent, a sinkhole, and a talking donkey.
MAIN IDEAS: PREPARING TO ENTER THE PROMISED LAND
God was present with the Israelites and led them through the wilderness. (Numbers 9:15-23)
Despite facing great opposition, Caleb + Joshua continued toward Canaan. (Numbers 14:8)
Despite his humble leadership, Moses would not enter the Promised Land. (Numbers 20:12)
God continued to provide direction for holiness, cleanliness, and worship. (Numbers 28-30)
EXAMPLE OF GOD’S CHARACTER: ENDURING PATIENCE
Despite the Israelites' persistent grumbling and complaining in the wilderness, God did not immediately abandon them. He displayed His patience as He continued to provide for their needs and guide them. The Israelites' extended period of wandering in the wilderness for forty years serves as a testament to God's patience. He endured their disobedience, establishing a new generation of His people. God was patient in developing a new generation and providing another chance for the Israelites.
God's interactions with Balaam, a prophet hired to curse the Israelites, showcased His patience. Although Balaam was initially disobedient, God provided guidance and opportunities for repentance. God desires for His people to be steadfast, and He offers patience and grace in their attempts.
JESUS IN NUMBERS: THE SERPENT + THE TREE
The Israelites’ rebellion caused God to send a swarm of fiery serpents. An entire generation of Israelite people were going to die, and this was one of the ways they would perish. When the Israelites remembered God and asked Moses to intercede for them in prayer, God provided Moses with a solution. Moses was to attach a bronze serpent to a stick and raise it for all the Israelites to see. When the afflicted Israelites who had been bitten saw the serpent, they were healed and remained alive. Although this sounds like an idol, the Israelites were not to worship the serpent; instead, they were to see it as a gift of protection from God.
In John 3:14-15, Jesus referenced this event by saying, “Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up that everyone who believes may have eternal life in him.” This serpent on the stick points to both the sin caused by the serpent in the garden and the cross that Jesus would die on to pay for our sins. Moses stood in between two world-altering events: the entrance of sin and the final defeat of sin.
