Numbers 21:9

“And Moses made a serpent of brass, and put it upon a pole, and it came to pass, that if a serpent had bitten any man, when he beheld the serpent of brass, he lived.”

Context: The book of Numbers records the events that took place during the Israelites’ journey from Mount Sinai to the Promised Land. In this particular verse, the Israelites were in the wilderness, grumbling against God and Moses because of their difficult circumstances.

Symbolism and foreshadowing:

• The serpent of brass: Moses crafted a serpent of brass and placed it on a pole. This serpent becomes a symbol of the consequences of sin and rebellion against God.
• The serpent’s bite: The Israelites were being bitten by poisonous serpents as a result of their complaining and murmuring. The serpent’s bite represents the judgment and punishment for their sin.

God’s provision of healing:

• God instructed Moses to make the serpent of brass and raise it on a pole. This act of obedience and faith on Moses’ part became a means of deliverance for the Israelites.
• God provided a way for the bitten people to be healed. All they had to do was look at the serpent of brass on the pole, and they would be saved from death.

Spiritual significance:

• The serpent of brass points to Jesus Christ: In the New Testament, Jesus refers to this event and draws a parallel between the serpent on the pole and Himself. Just as the Israelites were saved by looking at the serpent, so are people saved from the power of sin and death by looking to Jesus and believing in Him (John 3:14-15).
• The serpent represents sin and its consequences: The serpent biting the Israelites symbolizes the deadly consequences of sin. Sin brings about spiritual death and separation from God.
• Salvation through faith: The act of looking at the serpent of brass demonstrates the Israelites’ faith and trust in God’s provision for their healing. Similarly, salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ, who was lifted up on the cross to save humanity from sin and provide eternal life (John 3:16).

Application:

• Recognizing the consequences of sin: The story in Numbers 21:9 reminds us of the seriousness and consequences of sin. It is important to acknowledge our sins, repent, and turn to God for forgiveness and healing.
• Faith in God’s provision: Just as the Israelites had to look at the serpent to be healed, we must look to Jesus and put our faith in Him for salvation. Jesus is the only way to eternal life, and by believing in Him, we receive forgiveness and reconciliation with God.
• Gratitude for God’s mercy: Despite the Israelites’ complaining, God showed mercy and provided a way for them to be saved. This should remind us of God’s enduring love and mercy towards us, even in our times of disobedience and rebellion.

Remember, this Bible study provides an overview of the passage and its significance. Further study and exploration of related scriptures can deepen your understanding of the context and spiritual truths found in Numbers 21:9.