“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 cloud, and in a pillar of fire by night.”
Historical Context: The book of Numbers recounts the Israelites’ journey through the wilderness after their liberation from Egypt. In Numbers 14, the Israelites have reached the edge of the Promised Land, and Moses sends spies to explore the land.
Moses’ Intercession: In verse 13, Moses intercedes for the Israelites after they express their desire to choose a new leader and return to Egypt. He reminds God of His reputation and His relationship with the Israelites. Moses appeals to God’s covenant faithfulness and pleads for His mercy and forgiveness.
God’s Presence: In verse 14, Moses affirms that the inhabitants of the land have heard about God’s presence among the Israelites. The phrase “that thou Lord art among this people” emphasizes the unique relationship the Israelites had with God. They had experienced God’s tangible presence through the pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night.
Face to Face: Moses further states that God is “seen face to face.” While the Israelites had not seen God’s literal face (Exodus 33:20), they had encountered Him in a more direct and intimate way than any other nation. God had communicated with Moses “face to face, as a man speaks to his friend” (Exodus 33:11).
The Promised Land’s Reputation: Moses implies that the people of the land have heard about God’s presence and wonders performed on behalf of the Israelites. This suggests that the inhabitants may have been aware of God’s power and the miracles He had done in delivering the Israelites from Egypt.
Lessons for Today:
- God’s Presence: Just as God was present with the Israelites in the wilderness, He promises to be with His people today (Matthew 28:20). We can find comfort and strength in knowing that God is always with us.
- Intimacy with God: While the Israelites had a unique relationship with God, believers today can also experience an intimate relationship with Him through faith in Jesus Christ. We can approach God boldly and have a personal relationship with Him.
- God’s Faithfulness: Moses reminds God of His faithfulness to His covenant promises. God remains faithful to His people even when they fail or doubt. He forgives and guides us, just as He did with the Israelites.
- Sharing God’s Work: The reputation of the Israelites and their experiences with God spread to the people of the Promised Land. Similarly, our lives and testimonies should reflect the work of God in our lives, influencing others to know Him.
Remember to study the surrounding verses and consult additional resources for a more comprehensive understanding of the passage.
