“And they put him in ward, because it was not declared what should be done to him.”
Context: Numbers 15 is part of the book of Numbers, which documents the journey of the Israelites in the wilderness after their liberation from Egypt. In this chapter, various laws and regulations are given to the people of Israel regarding offerings, sacrifices, and the observance of the Sabbath.
Explanation: In Numbers 15:32-36, a specific incident is described where a man is found gathering sticks on the Sabbath day, which was forbidden according to God’s commandments. The people brought him before Moses and Aaron, and since it was not clearly stated in the law what punishment should be given, they put the man in custody while they sought the Lord for guidance.
Lessons from Numbers 15:34:
- The seriousness of God’s commandments: The incident highlights the importance God places on the observance of His commandments. God had explicitly instructed the Israelites to honor the Sabbath day and keep it holy (Exodus 20:8-11). Gathering sticks on the Sabbath was a violation of this commandment, and it was taken seriously.
- The need for clarity and understanding: The fact that Moses and Aaron were uncertain about what should be done in this particular case demonstrates the importance of seeking God’s guidance when faced with unfamiliar situations. Instead of making a hasty decision, they placed the man in custody and sought the Lord’s direction.
- God’s justice and mercy: Although the punishment for Sabbath-breaking had not been explicitly stated at that point, God later revealed His judgment. In Numbers 15:35-36, God commanded that the man be stoned to death as a consequence of his disobedience. This demonstrates that God’s laws are just and should be taken seriously. It also serves as a reminder of the consequences of disobedience.
- Seeking God’s wisdom: Moses and Aaron’s response to the situation teaches us the importance of seeking God’s wisdom in our decision-making processes. When faced with difficult circumstances or unclear situations, it is crucial to seek guidance from the Lord through prayer, studying His Word, and seeking counsel from wise and godly individuals.
Application: As believers, we are called to honor God’s commandments and live in obedience to His Word. The incident in Numbers 15 reminds us to take God’s instructions seriously and seek His guidance when faced with dilemmas or uncertainties. Let us strive to understand His will through studying the Scriptures and prayerfully seek His wisdom in all aspects of our lives.
Note: It’s important to consider that the Bible is a complex and multifaceted book, and studying a single verse in isolation may not provide a complete understanding of its meaning. It is beneficial to explore the surrounding verses, the historical and cultural context, and consult other resources to gain a deeper comprehension of the passage.
