Numbers

One of the most troubling stories in the Old Testament is Korah's rebellion where the earth opened up to swallow those who rebelled against God (Numbers 16:31, 32). The Bible says that after this a fire came out “from the Lord” (vs. 35) and destroyed 250 men. There are many who can’t …

Why was Moses punished so severely for striking the rock? On the surface it would seem that he lost his cool, yet God’s response would seem to indicate that there was something much more serious involved. We also discussed Balaam and his talking donkey. There is much more to this …

How do we reconcile the words that God spoke “face to face with Moses” with “No man can see my face and live”? The best context for understanding what it means to speak face to face with God is found in Numbers chapter 12. What is remarkable about the face …

“The LORD sent poisonous snakes among the people, and many Israelites were bitten and died.” (Numbers 21:6). In this Bible study we discussed 3 terrible stories: First, God is described as becoming “angry” and causing people to die as they ate the quail. Then, God opens up the earth to …

As the rebellious people began their 40 year journey through the wilderness, God said, “I will forgive them.” If we look at forgiveness purely from a legal perspective, wouldn’t this suggest that these people would be “paid up” and ready to “legally” enter the kingdom? Should we understand forgiveness primarily …

“How much longer will they refuse to trust me, even though I have performed so many miracles among them?” (Numbers 14:10). We usually associate more faith with more miracles, yet this relationship often seems reversed in the Bible. The children of Israel at this time were rebellious, yet there were …

There is no question that this is a dark and disturbing book. The people are against Moses. Aaron and Miriam are at times against Moses. Rebellion among the people against God is breaking out left and right. How can a gentle and kind God reach a people like this? {One …