“And the Lord came down in the pillar of the cloud, and stood in the door of the tabernacle, and called Aaron and Miriam: and they both came forth.”
Historical Context:Numbers is the fourth book of the Bible and continues the narrative of the Israelites’ journey from Egypt to the Promised Land. In this particular verse, we find Moses and his siblings, Aaron and Miriam, facing a challenge to their authority.
The Lord’s Appearance:In this verse, we see the Lord coming down in the pillar of cloud and standing in the door of the tabernacle. The pillar of cloud was a visible manifestation of God’s presence that led the Israelites through the wilderness during the day (Exodus 13:21-22). This appearance by God is significant, as it marks a direct intervention in response to the conflict arising against Moses.
God’s Summons:God called Aaron and Miriam to come forth and stand before Him. This summons indicates that God is about to address the issue that had arisen. It demonstrates that God is aware of the situation and is going to deal with it directly.
The Challenge to Authority:Prior to this verse, Aaron and Miriam had spoken against Moses because of his Cushite wife and had questioned his uniqueness as a prophet (Numbers 12:1-2). Their words were rooted in jealousy and pride. By challenging Moses’ authority, they were, in essence, challenging God’s chosen leader.
God’s Response:By calling Aaron and Miriam to the tabernacle and addressing the issue Himself, God affirms His support for Moses as the chosen leader of His people. Verse 6 goes on to emphasize Moses’ unique relationship with God, stating, “And he said, Hear now my words: If there be a prophet among you, I the Lord will make myself known unto him in a vision, and will speak unto him in a dream.”
The Consequences:As a consequence of their rebellion, God struck Miriam with leprosy. Aaron, realizing the seriousness of their error, pleaded with Moses for mercy. Moses interceded for Miriam, and after seven days of being shut out of the camp, she was healed (Numbers 12:10-15).
Lessons for us:
- Respect for God-ordained authority:The story in Numbers 12 serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting the authority God has established. Challenging those in leadership positions without just cause can lead to severe consequences.
- Jealousy and pride:Aaron and Miriam’s rebellion stemmed from jealousy and pride. These attitudes can poison relationships and hinder the work of God. We should guard against such destructive emotions and cultivate humility and contentment.
- God’s response to rebellion:God takes rebellion against His appointed leaders seriously. It is a matter that He will address and deal with in His wisdom and timing. We should trust in God’s sovereignty and submit to the leaders He has placed over us.
- The importance of intercession:Moses’ intercession for Miriam’s healing demonstrates the power of prayer and interceding on behalf of others. It is a reminder that we can approach God on behalf of those who have erred, seeking His mercy and restoration.
Overall, Numbers 12:5 highlights the consequences of challenging God-ordained authority and the importance of humility and submission. It also emphasizes God’s faithfulness in dealing with conflicts and the significance of intercession in seeking restoration and healing.
