A Pentecostal Commentary on the Book of Numbers in the Old Testament Pentateuch

What is it about?

THE BOOK OF NUMBERS The Torah or Pentateuch has been the most influential document of the Old Testament books to many generations of readers. Its claims and epic narratives have pierced the imagination and hearts of sacred or secular bibliophiles alike. The book of Numbers in the Pentateuch presents the extraordinary pilgrimage of a nation through the lens of a people led by Yahweh, their shepherd and guide. The journey holds formidable challenge, danger and adventure. Although there is great potential for the nation to inherit a covenanted land, their spiritual failures hamper the realization of this promise. The wilderness wanderings are an ultimate testing ground for Israel’s faith, obedience and adherence to Yahweh’s instructions. Whereas Yahweh proves to be faithful in guiding, providing and protecting, the nation struggles to reciprocate the divine affections. A generation of exodus participants will perish in the desert. A primary theme in Numbers involves the prophetic leadership of Moses. Prophecy is the chosen method of communication with the nation and Yahweh primarily speaks to his servant Moses through whom he shepherds Israel. The characteristic phrase, “the Lord spoke to Moses” highlights the relational reality of God’s presence with the redeemed people of Israel. This is crucial stuff because the divine blessing is essential for every positive reality in the life experience of Israel. How is the blessing effected and what does it actually entail? The opposite realm of experience manifests results of a curse which combat against all that is good and productive in the nation. Blessing and curse prove to be powerful realities in the people’s practice of life. Detailed instructions reveal how the nation must worship, emphasizing the holiness of God. A wholistic approach to life is presented for Israel to live an abundant, culturally sound and law- abiding lifestyle. Several theological gems are developed in Numbers, including the nature of charismatic prophetic leadership. This form of leadership has opposition from both internal and external sources as episodes with Miriam, Aaron and Balaam reveal. Behind the narratives in Numbers there is the ever-present divine impetus of the Lord who moves his people through a vital period of history. To effect various experiences in the nation there is a progressive revelation of how the Lord works among the nation to effect divine purposes. The Spirit comes upon leaders and causes prophetic responses, behaviours and inspired messages. These episodes appear at surprising times and in various ways but they provide insights regarding Yahweh’s work among the Israelites, and how the nation must attend to sacred matters. Themes of anointing, inspiration, prophetic speech, physical healing, blessing and guidance provide instruction on how the Spirit of God works among the developing people of God. Additionally, some very difficult matters arise involving significant suffering, death, punishment, conflict, cursing and power struggles. Human and divine dimensions are in constant tension providing insights for ancient and contemporary life issues.

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Photo by Laura Seaman on Unsplash

Photo by Laura Seaman on Unsplash

Why is it important?

The Book of Numbers has much to contribute to these themes and gives us insights into how people can hear the divine word and be guided towards the place of promise. Although ancient literature, Numbers features the impeccable prophetic leadership of Moses who has much to teach contemporary leaders about shepherding God’s people during chaotic times.

Perspectives