Our review of the Bible continues by looking at the Book of Numbers
(the fourth book of the Bible). So then . . .
(the fourth book of the Bible). So then . . .
Who wrote Numbers and when?
It is the fourth writing attributed to Moses during the time he was leading the Israelites and is understood to have been written during their time of wandering in the desert (around the 1410 BC time frame).
It is the fourth writing attributed to Moses during the time he was leading the Israelites and is understood to have been written during their time of wandering in the desert (around the 1410 BC time frame).
What is it all about?
It is primarily remembered as telling of the census actions taken and of the early history of the young Israelite nation. Within it we learn of their grumblings and rebellion, the venomous snakes, and how the people ask Moses for God's forgiveness and help. God has Moses make a bronze snake and has him put it on a pole, displayed so that anyone bitten my a snake can look at the pole and be healed (this is a foreshadow of Christ's death on the cross, we look to Him and are saved). We also learn of Moses' sin and how he and his generation will not be allowed to enter the Promised Land. They will wander in the desert for 40 years and then the next generation will prepare to enter into it.
It is primarily remembered as telling of the census actions taken and of the early history of the young Israelite nation. Within it we learn of their grumblings and rebellion, the venomous snakes, and how the people ask Moses for God's forgiveness and help. God has Moses make a bronze snake and has him put it on a pole, displayed so that anyone bitten my a snake can look at the pole and be healed (this is a foreshadow of Christ's death on the cross, we look to Him and are saved). We also learn of Moses' sin and how he and his generation will not be allowed to enter the Promised Land. They will wander in the desert for 40 years and then the next generation will prepare to enter into it.
Why should we know this? We learn that even with God living in the center of their camp (with the 12 tribes around the Tabernacle), it is easy for our sinful ways to surface. God is holy and this book helps us to understand . . . the punishment of the Israelites for their sins (because of their rebellion against God). |
And as an added reference, the following link is to a video clip that summarizes the Book of Numbers and it also provides some visuals to go with your review of this book (of the Israelites grumblings and sins but God's desire to help them learn to do what is needed so they could enter the Promised Land).
Overview: Numbers (7 minutes)
Overview: Numbers (7 minutes)