“And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying,”
Context:The book of Numbers is the fourth book of the Bible, and it focuses on the events that occurred during the Israelites’ journey from Mount Sinai to the edge of the Promised Land. In Numbers 31, we find the account of the Israelites’ battle against the Midianites.
Historical Background:
- Prior to Numbers 31, the Israelites had been wandering in the wilderness for forty years due to their disobedience and lack of faith in God. This chapter takes place after they received various laws and instructions from God concerning their journey and the establishment of their community.
- The Midianites were a neighbouring people who had become a snare to the Israelites, enticing them to engage in idolatry and immoral practices.
God’s Command to Moses:
- In Numbers 31:1, the Lord speaks to Moses. This verse serves as the introduction to the events that follow.
- God gives specific instructions to Moses regarding the Midianites, their punishment, and the spoils of war.
Lessons and Applications:
- Obedience to God’s commands: Despite their wilderness journey and past mistakes, the Israelites were still expected to obey God’s instructions. It shows that even after we have experienced God’s mercy and grace, we are still accountable for our actions.
- God’s justice and judgment: The Midianites had led the Israelites astray and enticed them to sin against God. In Numbers 31, God executes judgment on them for their wrongdoing.
- The consequences of sin: The battle against the Midianites was a consequence of their actions. It serves as a reminder that sin often has repercussions, both for individuals and for nations.
- The importance of purging evil influences: God commanded the Israelites to destroy the Midianites and their idols completely. This demonstrates the need to remove sinful influences from our lives to prevent them from leading us astray.
- God’s provision and ownership: God instructed Moses to divide the spoils of war among the people, but also to allocate a portion for Himself. This teaches us that everything we possess ultimately belongs to God, and we should be willing to give back to Him and use our resources in accordance with His will.
