“And the children of Israel did so, and put them out without the camp: as the LORD spake unto Moses, so did the children of Israel.”
Context:The book of Numbers is the fourth book in the Old Testament and is primarily concerned with the journey of the Israelites through the wilderness toward the Promised Land. It records various laws, regulations, and instructions given by God to Moses for the Israelites’ organisation, worship, and daily life.
In Numbers 5, God gives instructions to Moses concerning issues of impurity and unfaithfulness within the camp of Israel. Verse 4 specifically describes the response of the children of Israel to these instructions.
Key Points:
- Obedience to God’s Word:The children of Israel followed the instructions given to Moses by God. This verse highlights their obedience and willingness to carry out the commands they received. It demonstrates the importance of obedience in the lives of God’s people.
- Separation from Impurity:In this particular instance, the Israelites were instructed to put outside the camp anyone who was ceremonially unclean due to various reasons specified in the preceding verses. The camp of Israel was to remain pure and consecrated to the Lord, and anyone who posed a potential risk of defilement was to be temporarily removed. This act of separation ensured the maintenance of holiness within the community.
- God’s Faithfulness:The verse also emphasises that the children of Israel followed God’s command “as the LORD spake unto Moses.” It indicates that they trusted in God’s guidance and relied on His faithfulness. God’s instructions were given for the well-being and spiritual welfare of the Israelites, and their obedience demonstrated their faith in His wisdom and provision.
Lessons for us today:
- Obedience to God’s Word:Just as the children of Israel obeyed God’s instructions, we are called to be obedient to His Word. The Bible provides guidance for our lives, and by following it, we demonstrate our faith in God and His wisdom.
- Maintaining Holiness:As believers, we are called to live lives of holiness and purity. This doesn’t mean isolating ourselves from the world, but rather making choices that align with God’s commands and principles. We should be aware of the influences that can defile our hearts and seek to remove or distance ourselves from anything that hinders our spiritual growth.
- Trusting in God’s Faithfulness:The Israelites trusted in God’s faithfulness when they followed His instructions. Likewise, we can rely on God’s faithfulness in our lives. He is always with us, guiding and leading us, and we can have confidence that His plans for us are good.
Overall, Numbers 5:4 reminds us of the importance of obedience, maintaining holiness, and trusting in God’s faithfulness. By studying and applying these principles to our lives, we can grow in our relationship with God and experience His blessings.
