“And Moses said unto the LORD, Then the Egyptians shall hear it, (for thou broughtest up this people in thy might from among them;)”
Context: Numbers 14 recounts the account of the Israelites’ rebellion and lack of faith when they were about to enter the Promised Land. Twelve spies were sent by Moses to scout out the land of Canaan, and when they returned, they gave a mixed report. Ten of the spies expressed fear and doubt, discouraging the Israelites from entering the land, while only Joshua and Caleb had faith in God’s promise and encouraged them to proceed. As a result of the majority’s lack of faith, God pronounced judgment on the Israelites, declaring that they would wander in the wilderness for forty years until the rebellious generation had passed away.
Meaning and Significance:
- Moses’ Intercession: In Numbers 14:13, we find Moses interceding on behalf of the people of Israel before the Lord. He appeals to God’s reputation and reminds Him of the miraculous deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt. Moses understood the significance of God’s covenant relationship with His people and how His actions would impact His reputation among the nations. Moses’ intercession teaches us the importance of standing in the gap and pleading for God’s mercy for others.
- God’s Might and Deliverance: Moses acknowledges that it was God’s might that brought the Israelites out of Egypt. This recognition underscores the power and faithfulness of God in delivering His people. The mention of Egypt serves as a reminder that God’s past deliverance should have instilled confidence and trust in the hearts of the Israelites. However, their lack of faith led to their disobedience and consequences.
- The Testimony to the Nations: Moses expresses concern about the Egyptians hearing of the Israelites’ destruction. If the Israelites were defeated by the inhabitants of the land, it would cast doubt on God’s ability to fulfill His promises. This highlights the importance of God’s people living in obedience and faithfulness, as it serves as a testimony to the nations around them. Similarly, as followers of Christ today, our actions and attitudes should reflect our faith in God, so that others may see His power and faithfulness through us.
- God’s Response: Despite Moses’ intercession, God still carried out His judgment, declaring that the rebellious generation would not enter the Promised Land. This highlights the seriousness of disobedience and the consequences it brings. However, God’s faithfulness remains, as He fulfills His promise to eventually bring the next generation into the Promised Land.
Application:
- Intercessory Prayer: Like Moses, we should intercede for others before God. We can pray for God’s mercy, forgiveness, and intervention on behalf of those who have gone astray or are facing difficulties.
- Trusting in God’s Faithfulness: Just as the Israelites should have trusted in God’s faithfulness, we, too, should rely on His promises. Even in challenging times, we can remember His past faithfulness and trust that He will guide and provide for us.
- Being a Testimony: Our actions and attitudes should reflect our faith in God. By living according to His commands and walking in faith, we can be a testimony to others, demonstrating the power and faithfulness of God in our lives.
Remember to study the Bible in its entirety and consult additional resources to gain a deeper understanding of the passage and its context.
